Taking Learning Outside: How to Overcome Barriers and Embrace Nature-Based Early Childhood Education

About this book

How can I incorporate nature-based learning with children birth to age 8--especially if my school is in an urban setting? Taking Learning Outside provides a practical, research-based framework for early childhood educators to overcome logistical barriers and successfully extend teaching into the natural world. This book demonstrates that regardless of a school's location, resources, or space, every program can enhance its existing curriculum through the power of nature-based early education. While the benefits of outdoor education are well documented, many teachers face significant hurdles, such as administrator concerns, lack of gear, or personal discomfort with the outdoors. Author Rina Zampieron, a seasoned naturalist and educator, addresses these challenges directly. Instead of simply "adding on" extra activities, she shows how to weave nature into the core of your teaching using the five Habits of Mind--focus, making connections, communication, collaboration, and strategic thinking. Copublished with Mass Audubon, the largest nature-based conservation organization in New England, this work combines academic rigor with hands-on, classroom-tested strategies. Key Features: Overcomes Common Barriers: Offers practical solutions for logistics, safety issues, and common "can't go outside" concerns. Adaptable to Any Setting: Designed for use in urban, suburban, and rural schools, as well as Montessori, public, or home child care models. Habits of Mind Framework: Focuses on building children's learning and life skills, such as communication and problem-solving, rather than just topic-based lessons. Expert Guidance: Leverages the professional development expertise of Mass Audubon to empower educators across all subject areas. Practical Tools: Includes clear examples, curriculum-building content, and troubleshooting tools for teachers and administrators.

Details

Format

Paperback

ISBN-13

9780807784402

Publisher

Teachers College Press

Published

October 23, 2026

Pages

192

Weight

11.7 oz

Subject

Education