.25 CEU

Tales of Outdoor Learning:  Building Nature-Based Language and Literacy Curriculum for Young Children

Anyone who has spent time in nature knows the power that outdoor spaces have to inspire, teach, and spark imagination. Throughout history, writers, poets, and thinkers have looked to the natural world as a source of wonder and a place to expand ideas. Young children are no different. Educators know that young children, learn best when they are engaged, having fun, and free from stress and anxiety. With this in mind, early childhood educators can choose to create curriculum for children that aims to encourage these feelings for children, while also giving them the freedom to move their bodies, breathe fresh air, and engage deeply with the natural world around them. 
Teachers of young children, from infants to older preschoolers, can build engaging learning environments outdoors, giving children access to fresh air and space to move while exploring language and literacy concepts needed for pre-reading and writing activities. This workshop will support educators in reviewing what the benefits of outdoor learning, targeting skills in language and literacy learning areas for young children, and building curriculum to support young learners in an outdoor classroom environment.
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Upon enrollment in this training, you will have 2 weeks to complete all course content and submit your evaluation. Once the training is successfully completed, a .25 CEU certificate will be issued.

100% of this training will address the issues of “diverse learners”

Learning Outcomes

After completing this training, participants should be able to:
  • Review research and understandings of the benefits of outdoor and nature-based learning.
  • Review and understand and language and literacy development in young children.
  • Form a plan to approach language and literacy curriculum in an outdoor classroom.

The Institute for Education and Professional Development, Inc.

The Institute for Education and Professional Development, Inc. was established in 2005 to provide professional development and consultation services to early childhood programs and educators. We work collaboratively with programs, educators, and agencies to improve the quality of education and care for young children and families.

IEPD has master instructors who provide training, coaching and mentoring services. Each of the IEPD instructors receives training on adult learning principles, training design and delivery, and evaluation. All of the IEPD instructors have worked in the field of early childhood education, bringing their own experiences and "lessons learned" to the training.

Our trainings are fun, engaging, and are filled with important information and resources. We want to work with you, hear your stories, successes and challenges, and provide assistance to help you in your work.
Patrick Jones - Course author
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