The Regional Network Alliance is a responsive, collaborative “network of networks” organized by the Natural Start Alliance to provide a forum for connection and mutual support among organizations focused on advancing outdoor, nature-based early childhood education at regional levels, particularly at the state level.
As part of the Regional Network Alliance, leaders of regional organizations maintain open lines of communication, with a focus on sharing resources and knowledge to boost their collective impact.
Connect with a Regional Organization in Your State!
The following are states that have regional groups that are participating in the Regional Network. Does your state have a regional organization focused on Nature-Based Early Childhood Education that we’re missing? Let us know! Email Kit Harrington at [email protected].
California - California Association of Forest Schools
Colorado - Colorado Collective for Nature-Based Early Education
Illinois - Northern Illinois Nature Preschool Association (NINPA)
Maine - Maine Early Childhood Outdoors (MeECO)
Michigan - Michigan Teachers in Nature (MiTIN)
Minnesota - Minnesota Early Childhood Outdoors (MnECO)
Ohio - Ohio Nature Based Early Childhood Educator Collaborative
Oregon - Outdoor Early Learning Alliance of Oregon
Texas - NEST - Nature-based Education Support in Texas
Washington - Washington Nature Preschool Association (WaNPA)
Wisconsin - Wisconsin Nature-based Early Childhood Association (WiNBECA)
Organizations Serving Multiple States
Check to see if these organizations have chapters in your state.
Eastern Region Association of Nature and Forest Schools
Inside-Outside: Nature-Based Educators
NAAEE Affiliates
Interested in connecting with environmental educators in your state? NAAEE Affiliates are in every state, and most support early childhood environmental education. Visit the NAAEE website to learn more about NAAEE Affiliates and to find the organization in your state.
About the Regional Network Alliance
While the Natural Start Alliance includes and supports all individuals and organizations working to promote nature and the environment in early childhood education, the Regional Network Alliance is a specific initiative focused on connecting established organizations that have a primary focus on promoting outdoor, nature-based early childhood education in their state or region. These regional organizations typically serve educators as a primary audience. The Regional Network Alliance meets annually in connection with the Nature-Based Early Learning Conference, holds shorter quarterly meetings, and maintains open lines of connection throughout the year.
To learn more, email Kit Harrington at [email protected].