At the Natural Start Alliance, we believe in great beginnings. We know that hands-on experiences in nature help build stronger, smarter, and happier children. In order to ensure that every child has opportunities to experience the wonders and joys of nature, we need strong voices advocating for high-quality nature-based early learning and care. Natural Start offers a variety of networks and resources to help advocates be successful.
In particular, Natural Start focuses on supporting advocacy for outdoor nature-based (ONB) early childhood policies at the state level. Many professionals also find the resources helpful in advocating for ONB practices in individual programs.
Natural Start Alliance Networks for Advocates
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Regional Networks Alliance
The Regional Networks Alliance is a network of state-level professional networks that provides a forum for organizations focused on advancing and supporting outdoor, nature-based early childhood education at a state or regional level to connect, share resources, and learn together.
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Outdoor and Nature-Based Policy Huddle
This national-level policy huddle connects and supports advocates across the United States actively working to advance state-level outdoor nature-based preschool policy.
Technical Assistance and Consultation
Natural Start provides support, resources and consultation relating to Outdoor and Nature-Based Early learning policy. By working closely in partnership with state-level advocates, agency representatives, and other policymakers, we strive to identify and share critical lessons learned across our networks in real time; promoting informed policy making, effective advocacy, and collective expertise. Natural Start also partners and connects state advocates with other allied organizations on a national level. In addition, Natural Start provides expert review of proposed policies with an eye toward ensuring safety, effectiveness, and inclusion. To request support from Natural Start's policy advisors, contact [email protected].
Resources for Advocates
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About ONB Policy
Learn about Outdoor Nature-Based (ONB) policies for early childhood care and education, including why nature is important for young children, what defines the nature-based approach, and more.
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Nature Preschool National Survey
Natural Start's latest report on nature preschools in the United States reveals that the sector has continued its rapid growth, now reaching over 800 nature preschools in the United States. The report also reveals that Black and Latino families and educators are under-represented in nature preschools. This data, in particular, is critical for driving advocacy to make outdoor, nature-based education more accessible and affordable.
