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In early October, the Natural Start team attended the 2026 annual NAAEE Conference and Research Symposium in Portland, Oregon. Over several days, we connected with other leaders in the field, exchanging ideas and sharing resources. It was especially exciting to see early childhood nature-based education so well-represented within NAAEE’s broader network of environmental educators, whose work spans all age groups.
At the conference, we hosted an informal gathering for members of the Early Childhood Environmental Educators eePRO group, along with those interested in joining. The gathering was a chance to hear from attendees about their work and discuss ways to stay connected as a network dedicated to advancing high-quality, accessible nature-based learning for young children. The room was filled with familiar and new faces, bringing together the wisdom of seasoned leaders, the excitement and curiosity of newcomers, and the shared passion to carry this work forward.
Natural Start Director Christy Merrick and Deputy Director for Early Childhood Policy Kit Harrington also led a compelling introductory session on the finalized version of the Recommendations for Licensing Outdoor,Nature-Based Early Learning and Child Care Programs. This new resource is designed to help communities, including licensing agencies, expand children’s access to safe and high-quality outdoor and nature-based learning. Access the full Recommendations PDF here.
Lastly, over the course of two days at the conference, Natural Start convened with trusted advisors to engage in discourse about Natural Start’s strategic plan over the coming years. Our team left these meetings energized with new ideas and considerations to inform how we continue to support and uplift the amazing work of Alliance members.
