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NAAEE Conference and Research Symposium

October 11, 2022 to October 15, 2022
Westin La Paloma Resort
Tuscon, AZ
 Join us in Tucson, Arizona for the annual Research Symposium (October 11–12) and Conference (October 12–15) at the Westin La Paloma Resort.

Forest Days PLC

September 29, 2022
Online!
 The Forest Days Professional Learning Community (PLC) is designed to support teachers who lead on-going nature-based, environmental education with students in public schools. Forest Days programs typically take classes outside at least once per week to engage in hands-on, experiential outdoor learning on their school grounds or nearby green spaces walking distance from the school. As teachers implement Forest Days outdoor learning programs, they benefit from guidance and support to best utilize their environment for learning and link to curricular standards. The PLC is a supportive space for teachers to develop strategies and practices that enrich this weekly outdoor learning experience for their students. Forest Days often follows one of these paths: Public school teacher serves as Forest Days Facilitator/Forest School Guide Parent or volunteer serves as Forest Days Facilitator/Forest School Guide Outside organization provides a Forest Days Facilitator/Forest School Guide In each of these scenarios, the Forest Days facilitator needs professional development in approaches to nature-based education and can benefit from this PLC! Over the course of the school year, teachers meet once per month for a total of 10 meetings to examine key topics as teachers problem-solve in real time to implement Forest Days programs. An ERAFANS facilitator leads each PLC session to provide resources and tools for topics such as: Routines and daily schedules in the outdoor classroom Essential tools for outdoor learning Social-emotional skills, collaboration, and community building The role of the teacher - partner and guide Gear and supplies for students and teachers Inquiry based learning - using questions to guide curriculum Language and literacy outdoors Documentation and assessment of weekly outdoor learning experiences Nurturing values of empathy, compassion, gratitude, and respect Approaches to risk management and safety routines outdoors Communicating with families about Forest Days Classroom curriculum connections- bringing the outdoors inside When you register, we will share additional details including the link to our monthly Zoom meetings. We hope you can join this supportive professional learning community!

Nature-Based Teacher Certification

September 20, 2022 to October 27, 2022
Online!
 We are thrilled to offer our Nature-Based Teacher Certification as an online option! You will gain a deeper understanding of nature pedagogy and practices as you earn this introductory credential. Our 36-hour course provides in-depth study of best practices in nature-based early childhood education to prepare you for meaningful outdoor learning experiences. We draw from experienced educators with diverse perspectives to help you hone your own approaches to nature-based ECE. Whether you are in a formal school or childcare setting or working in a nature or forest preschool, this course is designed to meet the needs of early childhood educators working in any setting. SCHEDULE Tuesdays: Facilitated discussions on key topics Wednesdays: Cohort meetings Thursdays: Guest presenters with Q&A Course meets from 7-8:30 p.m. (EST) on Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday. There is a total of 24 hours direct learning through 6 consecutive weeks of online sessions with presenters and within small cohorts. An additional 12 hours of flexible, self-directed learning will take place centered on outdoor skills and experiences, which you must provide documentation of. Upon registration, we will provide you with a complete list of materials needed for the course.

EarthGuides: Outdoor Educator Training

September 12, 2022 to May 25, 2023
14 Maple Leaf Farm Rd
Underhill, VT 05489
 We are thrilled to offer Outdoor Educator Training starting Fall 2022 - Spring 2023. This program is designed to offer training in the skills needed to serve as an outdoor educator and mentor for children of all ages. The program will include 3 hours of classroom/hands-on skills practice with experienced ReTribe educators as well as other presenters in the field. Part of the program is also apprenticing with Forest School mentors and students one day per week. Cost: Free! This program is funded by a grant which is trying to increase available staff for children's extracurricular programming in Vermont. A $300 deposit is required but it will be returned upon completion of the course. We ask for a 1 year commitment to participate.

In-Person Forest School Teacher Certificate Training

September 8, 2022 to September 10, 2022
Fernandina Beach, FL
 Join Dr. Jean Lomino on the beaches of northeast Florida for a three-day teacher intensive. Activities include observing children doing “forest school” in the sand and surf and in coastal wetlands, learning together about emergent curriculum, introducing cultural themes into forest school, practicing mindfulness, journaling, and naturalist training. This in-person session is limited to 15 participants (first come, first serve). Participants will: *Practice observation and assessment strategies *Learn to use questioning for creating on-the-spot activities that enrich/extend children’s discoveries *Understand backwards-lesson planning and create learning frameworks *Learn how to incorporate heritage and cultural studies in a forest school setting *Engage in mindfulness practices including sit spots and nature journaling *Receive a FSTI Certificate of Completion for 22 hours of Forest School Teacher Training REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS 8/31/22 Learn more on our website.

M.A.P.L.E (Mentoring for Administrators to Propel Leadership in Education)

August 16, 2022
Imagine having a small group of experienced, trusted colleagues to talk through all the “sticky situations” you face as a nature-based school leader. M.A.P.L.E provides coaching, connection, & accountability for nature-based education leaders to grow a thriving nature-based team & school. Facilitated by Dr. Rachel A. Larimore, you'll have support from a consistent, small group of colleagues (<5) for the entire year so you can build a professional network and support system to last beyond the coaching program. Two 1.5-hour sessions each month throughout the school year (Aug-June; 11 months) mean you'll have timely, responsive support for any challenges you may face as a leader throughout the 2022-23 school year.

ECO Institute: Nature-Based Routines for Outdoor Classrooms

August 8, 2022 to August 12, 2022
713 Elm St
Montpelier, VT 05602
 This introductory ECO (Educating Children Outdoors) Institute course acquaints participants with the routines and protocols that structure a successful outdoor learning and play experience. Participants will: Develop a knowledge base and skill set to incorporate nature immersion practices into your program in a way that meets the needs of your students. Learn how to conduct site assessments and how to manage hazards and risks within an outdoor classroom space. Explore foundational math and literacy skills in nature with nature. Learn how to partner with the natural world to bring the curriculum outdoors and nature indoors while meeting NGSS, Common Core and Vermont Early Learning Standards.

Nature-Based Early Learning Conference

July 27, 2022 to July 30, 2022
In-Person and Online
Cincinnati, OH
 One conference, two ways to join! This year’s Nature-Based Early Learning Conference is in-person and online this year. Join the @NaturalStartAlliance in Cincinnati, Ohio from July 27-30 for workshops, site tours, networking, interactive sessions, and plenaries that explore the future of nature-based early learning. Or, join online for live-streamed plenaries, access to 50+ on-demand sessions, and more! Explore the conference at bit.ly/NatStart22.

Forest and Nature-Based Education Approaches for Early Childhood

July 26, 2022 to August 2, 2022
Online
 Online from Castleton University, VT 15 PD hrs or 3 college -grad or undergrad- credits. Forest and nature-based early childhood programs are holistic, interdisciplinary, and sensory-based approaches to learning. These philosophies aim to foster students’ independence and initial understandings of their interconnectedness with the whole world. This class includes natural history content for early childhood, integrating nature-based activities into existing curricula, sense of place and sustainable practices, family and community connections, healthy risk-taking and risk management, and the benefits of nature-based play for social-emotional health and learning outcomes. The course also includes considerations for special education supports and accommodations.

Forest & Garden: Plant Literacy for the Nature Based Classroom

July 25, 2022 to July 29, 2022
34 Grist Mill Place
Marshfield, VT 05658
 Forest and Garden Summer Residency for educators is now enrolling! Establish practices for cultivating co-regulation with your students to enhance the learning experience. Curriculum based in mindfulness practices, sensory awareness, self-care, perennial herb gardening for tea, safe and sustainable foraging in the forest, field, marsh, and garden and herbal recipe-making skills. Nourish straight from the earth as the source. You, as educator, are empowered to weave nourishment through story, wonder, nature, and self-awareness and slowing down into the daily curriculum back at school. We nourish the child by first nourishing the educator. We give permission to this paramount process of first caring for ourselves, then caring for others, so we may then begin to learn. Join us, enroll now! PreK-9th grade educators.

ECO Institute: Natural History Fundamentals for Educators

June 27, 2022 to July 1, 2022
713 Elm St
Montpelier, VT 05602
 This course is a natural history deep dive tailored to the unique needs of teachers interested in building a greater familiarity with the environment in which they teach. Participants will: Build a framework for viewing the land and its inhabitants that relieves the discomfort of not knowing how to identify everything. Become familiar with common birds and their song, basic tree and plant identification, wild edible safety, geology, and stream ecology. Practice seasonal lessons and routines that deepen a partnership with the land and align with NGSS and Common Core. Practice strategies for bridging the gap between learning that takes place outdoors and in the classroom.

FSTI Summer Workshop June 23-25, 2022 FOREST SCHOOL: Creating Emergent Learning Frameworks Pre K-5

June 23, 2022 to June 25, 2022
3408 Elder Mountain Road
Chattanooga, TN 37419
 Join Dr. Jean Lomino at Lookout Lake Farm, the birthplace of Wauhatchie Forest School and site of the new Nature Kin Farm and Forest School. This training is designed for both experienced forest school practitioners and those who wish to implement emergent learning in their individual teaching practice. Workshop limited to 24 participants. Deadline for registration: 6/10/22. Participants will: •Practice observation strategies to uncover children’s areas of interest during exploratory play •Learn to use questioning for creating on-the-spot activities that enrich/extend children’s discoveries •Understand backwards-lesson planning and create learning frameworks •Discover how to incorporate emergent learning in STEM/STEAM programs •Take home a seasonal learning framework to use in their individual teaching venues •Receive a FSTI Certificate of Completion for 14 hours of training (2 days) and 21 hours (3 days)

Forest Schools: Creating Emergent Learning Frameworks Pre K-5

June 23, 2022 to June 25, 2022
3408 Elder Mountain Rd
Chattanooga, TN 37419
 Join Dr. Jean Lomino at Lookout Lake, the birthplace of Wauhatchie Forest School and the new Nature Kin Farm and Forest School. This training is designed for both experienced forest school practitioners and those who wish to implement emergent learning in their individual teaching practice. Workshop limited to 24 participants. Participants will: Practice observation strategies to uncover children’s areas of interest during exploratory play Learn to use questioning for creating on-the-spot activities that enrich/extend children’s discoveries Understand backwards-lesson planning and create learning frameworks Discover how to incorporate emergent learning in STEM/STEAM programs Take home a seasonal learning framework to use in their individual teaching venues Receive a FSTI Certificate of Completion for 14 hours of training (2 days) and 21 hours (3 days)

Forest Schools: Children Learning in Nature

June 16, 2022 to June 18, 2022
201 Methodist Camp Road
Jonesborough, TN 37659
 oin Dr. Jean Lomino at The Camp at Buffalo Mountain, the home of Seedkeepers Forest School. Experience three days of sweet communion, nature-inspiration and focused professional growth. The training is designed for both experienced forest school practitioners and those who wish to learn about the philosophy and practice of forest school education. There will be time to explore over one-hundred scenic acres onsite with creek, pond, gentle trails, plus easy access to numerous public trails and waterfalls in the area, including part of the Appalachian Trail and the Nolichuckey River. This workshop is conducted in partnership with, and endorsed by, the Early Childhood Education Department of East Tennessee State University. Limited to 15 participants. Included in the workshop: Multiple Forest School training sessions Observation of students and debrief at Seedkeepers Forest School Conversations with FS leaders and teachers in the field Nature Journaling, sit spots, and naturalist training Personal consultations with Dr. Jean Lomino Certificate of Completion for 18 hours of training, endorsed by FSTI and ETSU Department of Early Childhood Education

FOREST SCHOOLS: CHILDREN LEARNING IN NATURE

June 16, 2022 to June 18, 2022
201 Methodist Camp Road
Jonesborough, TN
 Join Dr. Jean Lomino at The Camp at Buffalo Mountain, the home of Seedkeepers Forest School in Jonesboro, Tennessee. Experience three days of sweet communion, nature-inspiration and focused professional growth. The training is designed for both experienced forest school practitioners and those who wish to learn about the philosophy and practice of forest school education. The workshop is conducted in partnership with, and endorsed by, the Early Childhood Education Department of East Tennessee State University. Limited to 15 participants. Deadline for application June 2. •Forest School training presentations and discussions •Observation of students at Seedkeepers Forest School •Conversations with FS leaders and teachers in the field •Nature Journaling, sit spots and naturalist training •Personal consultations with Dr. Lomino •Certificate of Completion for 18 hours of training, endorsed by FSTI and ETSU Department of Early Childhood Education

Outdoor Teacher Retreat

May 13, 2022 to May 14, 2022
Fernbrook Farms Environmental Education Center
142 Bordentown Georgetown Road
Chesterfield, NJ 08515
 You can expect a hands-on day of outdoor fun in nature! Presenters share insights and activities based on their work in nature preschools, forest kindergartens, or other nature-based programs. Training is ideal for educators working with children ages 3-6 years old. Program directors are invited to join us Friday evening for a campfire, networking, and a chance to share ideas and resources to support running a nature-based program. Light breakfast and lunch are included on Saturday, but bring your canteen for drinks. ERAFANS will provide a professional development certificate at the conclusion of the event. Please dress for the weather, as at least 50% of this event will take place outdoors, and don't forget your canteen! To learn more and register, please visit http://erafans.org/page-18181

Leading Nature Connection in the Public Schools

May 5, 2022
Leading Nature Connection in the Public Schools with Marie Robinson Research shows that nature connection supports cognitive, physical, and social-emotional development for people of all ages. In this webinar learn how to bring or continue growing nature connections at your school as just good practice and in response to the challenges we face today. Participants will share and discuss ideas around the skills, benefits, and challenges of breaking out of the classroom to learn. Relevant to teacher leaders, school principals, heads of schools and curriculum leaders alike.

England Forest School Tour

April 27, 2022 to May 6, 2022
Join Dr. Jean Lomino for a Forest School Learning Odyssey to the South of England April 27-May 6. After three days in London, participants will lodge in Canterbury. They will visit surrounding villages, historical sites and tour FS programs in various settings in Kent—on the seashore, at a farm, in city centers and in the forest. Our host is Clair Stevens, a leading FS advocate in England and globally, an author, speaker and a professor of Early Learning at Canterbury Christ Church University. She opened an award-winning nursery school, Manor House Nursery and Forest School, in 2008. Clair and Jean will co-facilitate class sessions designed for trip participants. Visit www.forestteacher.org for more details including schedule, cost and application deadlines.

Forest School Teacher Institute England Forest School Tour

April 27, 2022 to May 6, 2022
Join Dr. Jean Lomino for a Forest School Learning Odyssey to the South of England April 27-May 6. After three days in London, participants will lodge in Canterbury. They will visit surrounding villages, historical sites and tour FS programs in various settings in Kent—on the seashore, at a farm, in city centers and in the forest. Our host is Clair Stevens, a leading FS advocate in England and globally, an author, speaker and a professor of Early Learning at Canterbury Christ Church University. She opened an award-winning nursery school, Manor House Nursery and Forest School, in 2008. Clair and Jean will co-facilitate class sessions designed for trip participants. Visit our website for more details including schedule, cost and application deadlines.

Open Office Hours with Outside OT & Samara Early Learning: Talking About Challenging Behaviors in the Outdoor Classroom

April 26, 2022
Would you like to pick the brain of experts to solve behavioral challenges in your nature-based program to support children’s success? Well, here’s your chance! For one hour Nicole Gordon and Lis Duckworth of Outside OT, alongside Dr. Rachel Larimore of Samara Early Learning, will discuss strategies for addressing challenging behaviors in nature-based settings! Use this time to tap into their expertise to help solve specific behavioral challenges you’re facing in your nature-based program. Nicole is a pediatric occupational therapist, Lis a special education teacher, and Rachel an early childhood educator. All three focus on nature-based approaches to their work. Use this time to tap into their expertise to help solve specific behavioral challenges you’re facing in your nature-based program. This one hour conversation will help identify specific strategies to test out and bring you clarity about your next step. The stories and questions of other nature-based professionals may also eliminate any feelings of isolation–you are not alone on this journey and others have been there too!