Bright Ideas - The Natural Start Blog

Bright Ideas

Call for Manuscripts: International Journal of Early Childhood Environmental Education

March 24, 2015

Whether you're a seasoned academic or a new educator, you can contribute to the research base in environmental education for young children. Read More

Deadline Extended for NAAEE Conference Proposals

March 24, 2015

Do you need a few more days to submit your proposal for the NAAEE conference in San Diego? You now have until Friday, March 27th! Read More

Why the Common Core State Standards Matter

February 27, 2015

A new report argues that requirements for reading in kindergarten pose significant risks to children who are not ready to read at age five. Read More

President Obama Commits to Getting "Every Kid in a Park"

February 26, 2015

This major new commitment to get kids outdoors will offer fourth graders and their families opportunities to enjoy our public lands free of charge. Read More

Chicago-Area Educators: Nature Play Conference in May

February 20, 2015

The Chicago Botanic Garden and Alliance for Early Childhood are happy to announce the second annual "Inspiring Nature Play: Digging Deeper" conference to promote nature play. Read More

New Professional Development Class Targeted Specifically for Nature-Based Early Childhood Educators!

February 17, 2015

The Chicago Zoological Society’s Nature Start program, along with Kid Links Unlimited, has created a unique professional development workshop designed specifically for early learning nature-based educators. Read More

No Child Left Inside Act Introduced with Bipartisan Support

February 11, 2015

Today, Senators Jack Reed (RI-D) and Mark Kirk (IL-R) and Congressmen John Sarbanes (MD-R) and Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-R) introduced legislation aimed at improving environmental education in our nation’s public schools. The No Child Left Inside Act would provide grants to school districts, support teacher training and promote the integration of outdoor learning into the school curriculum. Read More

Save Your Printer Ink! IJECEE Is Now Available in Print

January 29, 2015

The International Journal of Early Childhood Environmental Education is now available in print, and Natural Start members and supporters get 50% off. Read More

Need Ideas for Encouraging Nature Play? A New Free Guide Is Available

January 29, 2015

A new guide from The Pennsylvania Land Trust Association explores why nature play is important, its essential characteristics, and what organizations can do to restore children's play. Read More

Share Your Voice! NAAEE Call for Presentations is Open

January 29, 2015

NAAEE is seeking proposals for the nation's largest and longest-running conference for environmental education. Read More

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