Memories of The Great Outdoors

The Joy of Summer and the Importance of Outdoor Learning Environments for Children Summer brings back fond memories of freshly cut grass, cicadas, and the cool breeze on a hot day. As an eighties baby, I cherish the memories of playing outdoor games like red light, green light and hopscotch. Unfortunately, statistics show that the number of overweight and obese children in the US is increasing (Partnership for a Healthier America), and toddlers are spending more time on screens than ever before (CDC). As a mother of two young children, I want them to have the same outdoor experiences I had growing up, which inspired me to create an outdoor exploration series for parents and educators.

Join me in this six-part summer conference to discover the components of a high-quality outdoor learning environment, assess current needs, and create a blueprint that is intentional, age-appropriate, and sustainable. As an educator, I firmly believe that children thrive through hands-on play opportunities. Let's create a world where fresh air, mud pies, and imagination are key parts of every child's learning journey. Share your favorite childhood outdoor memories and experiences in the comments to keep the conversation going.