Megan Gessler, Northern Illinois Nature Preschool Alliance

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.

The workshop is designed to explore the role of nature, nature play, and interacting with others during the early years of rapid brain development. In particular, the workshop will include a focus on a technique for creating learning conversations called Powerful Interactions. Intentional teachers can use these tools to support and enhance brain development for young children and communicate the benefits of inquiry-based early learning with their parents. The workshop will also cover the role that early learning standards, observations, goals and assessments play in planning and facilitating experiences in nature. 

The first session will be held in Illinois at Brookfield Zoo on March 7th from 9-4 pm. The class costs $75 per person. Zoo admission and parking is included. There is a minimum of 20 registrations and a maximum of 30. Registrations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. In order to register, you must mail a $75 check or Purchase Order to: Kid Links Unlimited, Inc., 18335 Maple Street, Lansing, Il. 60438. Please make sure to specify that your check is for Nature Brain on March 7th.

Download this flier for more information.  If you are interested in having their program offered in your area, please contact Marilyn Brink at [email protected].