Outdoor Classrooms: Nature-Based Teaching and Learning for Educators and Parents

The Seasons of an Outdoor Classroom: How to Adapt, Grow & Teach Through Change What happens when you plan the perfect first day in your outdoor classroom…and then it rains? In this episode, I’m taking you into the Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom, where our first day back became a lesson in pivoting, noticing, and embracing what the season gives us. We’ll explore how changing weather, falling leaves, messy gardens, and shifting seasons can become part of the curriculum—and why an outdoor classroom is never truly finished. In this episode: Turning unexpected weather into learning Finding curriculum in seasonal change Embracing the “messy middle” Seeing your space through an Educator’s Lens Growing your outdoor classroom through small steps And one question to take with you: What is this season asking of your outdoor classroom? Start where you are. Notice what’s changing. Take one small step. A little each day. Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Sponsorship Opportunities: If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and share this conversation with a fellow educator or parent. Your support helps more people discover the transformative power of nature-based education. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

Episode #215: Look Up: What Teaching Outdoors Can Teach Us About Attention, Screens & the Culture We Create What if one of the greatest gifts of teaching outdoors is simply learning to pay attention again? In this episode, Victoria begins with an ordinary moment: sitting on the couch, surrounded by screens, and feeling frustrated that "together time" didn't actually feel very together. Then came the uncomfortable realization: she was looking at a screen too. That small moment opened a much bigger question: What culture are we participating in - and is it the culture we actually want to create? With nearly half of American teens reporting that they are online almost constantly, our relationship with screens, attention, and connection is worth examining. But this isn't an episode about blaming technology - or anyone else. It's about looking at what we model. Victoria explores how our everyday habits shape the culture children experience and why outdoor classrooms offer something increasingly valuable: a place to slow down, look up, notice, wonder, and practice paying attention to the world around us. In this episode, you'll explore: What our frustrations can reveal about what we value The connection between screens, attention, and presence What children learn by watching the adults around them How everyday routines quietly create classroom culture Why outdoor classrooms can become places to practice attention The difference between telling children nature matters and modeling it How to do a simple "culture audit" of your outdoor teaching practice Why meaningful change can begin by changing just one thing You don't have to eliminate screens or completely reinvent your classroom. Start by noticing. Look up. Pay attention. Change one thing. Because the small choices we repeat become our habits. Our habits create our culture. And we create the culture. Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Sponsorship Opportunities: If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and share this conversation with a fellow educator or parent. Your support helps more people discover the transformative power of nature-based education. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

The Power of Being in the Room: Why Nature-Based Educators Need Each Other Have you ever felt like you’re swimming upstream as a nature-based educator? You believe in getting children outside. You see the learning, confidence, curiosity, and connection that happen there. But when you’re constantly explaining—or even defending—why this work matters, it can be easy to start questioning yourself. In this episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast , I’m exploring the power of being in the room with people who understand the work you’re trying to do. Inspired by conversations in our Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course , we’ll talk about finding the language to articulate the value of nature-based education, moving from defending our practice to advocating for it, and the idea of borrowing courage from others when our own confidence wavers. Because maybe the answer isn’t to swim harder. Maybe it’s time to find your people. In this episode, we explore: Why nature-based educators can feel isolated and begin questioning their practice How being in the right room changes what we believe is possible Finding the words to communicate the value of outdoor learning Moving from defending your practice to advocating for it The power of “borrowed courage” Why community is essential for sustaining this work How the CIRCLE Community creates space for nature-based educators to learn, share, question, and grow together If you’ve been feeling like you’re doing this work alone, this episode is your invitation to get in the room . You don’t have to have all the answers. You don’t have to be the expert. And you don’t have to swim upstream alone. Find your people. Get in the room. And when you do, hold the door open for the next educator. Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Sponsorship Opportunities: If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and share this conversation with a fellow educator or parent. Your support helps more people discover the transformative power of nature-based education. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

The Messy Middle of Your Outdoor Classroom: Permission to Start Small What if your outdoor classroom doesn’t need to be finished—or even close to perfect—to be meaningful? In this episode, we’re talking about two permissions every outdoor educator needs: permission to start small and permission to embrace the messy middle. It’s easy to look at a beautiful, established outdoor classroom and think you need the budget, materials, master plan, and perfect space before you can begin. But meaningful outdoor classrooms rarely happen all at once. They grow one idea, one experiment, and one small step at a time. And once you start? Things get messy. Children use materials in ways you never expected. Plants die. Plans change. Carefully designed spaces get rearranged. Something you thought children would love gets ignored—while the simplest addition captures their attention for weeks. That messy middle isn’t a sign that you’re doing it wrong. It’s where the learning happens. In this episode, we explore: Why starting small is not the same as thinking small How to begin with what you already have Why your outdoor classroom doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s What children’s unexpected use of a space can teach us How to view the “mess” as information instead of failure Why outdoor classrooms should evolve alongside the children who use them How to recognize progress that has nothing to do with how beautiful your space looks When to keep going, change direction, or let an idea go Whether you’re dreaming about your first outdoor classroom, taking your first few steps, or standing right in the middle wondering if any of it is working, this conversation is for you. You don’t need the whole plan to begin. Start small. Stay curious. Let it be messy. Then take the next small step. Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Sponsorship Opportunities: If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and share this conversation with a fellow educator or parent. Your support helps more people discover the transformative power of nature-based education. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

Taking the Leap: What a Hut-to-Hut Trek in Sweden Taught Me About Outdoor Classrooms & Community What happens when you say yes before you feel completely ready? In this episode, I’m taking you along on my hut-to-hut trek through Sweden—and sharing the unexpected lessons I brought home about courage, Outdoor Classrooms, and community. Along the trail, I was reminded that we don't need to see the entire path before taking the first step. Whether you're trekking through Sweden or growing an Outdoor Classroom, sometimes you simply need to focus on the next hut. In this episode, we explore: Saying yes before you feel completely ready Taking your Outdoor Classroom one step at a time Learning to embrace uncertainty and discomfort Why who you walk with matters How the CIRCLE can be the community that walks alongside you So, what's your next hut? You don't need to have the whole trail mapped out—and you don't have to walk it alone. Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Sponsorship Opportunities: If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and share this conversation with a fellow educator or parent. Your support helps more people discover the transformative power of nature-based education. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

Clara’s Curiosity: Foxy Friends, Nature & Wonder with Karen Belanger-Richmond What happens when a child’s curiosity leads her outside—and she discovers a family of foxes? In this episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast , I’m joined by children’s author Karen Belanger-Richmond , author of Clara’s Curiosity & Her Foxy Friends . Karen shares the inspiration behind Clara’s story and how a real-life experience grew into a children’s book celebrating curiosity, observation, wildlife, and the simple magic of spending time outdoors. Together, we explore what can happen when children are given the time and space to slow down, notice what’s around them, ask questions, and follow their curiosity. In this episode, we talk about: The story behind Clara’s Curiosity & Her Foxy Friends How Karen’s family and experiences in Maine inspired her writing Why curiosity is such a powerful starting point for outdoor learning Helping children observe and appreciate wildlife safely and respectfully Nature journaling, noticing, and asking, “What do you see?” Simple ways teachers and families can encourage children to become outdoor investigators What’s next for Clara and her adventures Whether you’re an early childhood educator, teacher, parent, grandparent, or simply someone who believes children need more opportunities to wonder outdoors, this conversation is an invitation to look a little closer at the nature right outside your door. A Special Thank You A special thank-you to Karen Belanger-Richmond and Clara’s Curiosity & Her Foxy Friends for sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast during August, September, and October . We are grateful for Karen’s support of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast and our mission to inspire more outdoor learning, curiosity, and connection with the natural world. Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Sponsorship Opportunities: If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and share this conversation with a fellow educator or parent. Your support helps more people discover the transformative power of nature-based education. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

Episode 210: Inside Nature Forward Nature Preschool: Carlos Duque on Curiosity, Confidence & Belonging What happens when we give children the time, space, and freedom to follow their curiosity? In this episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast , Victoria Hackett sits down with Carlos Duque , Preschool Director at Nature Forward , to explore how nature-based education helps children develop confidence, empathy, resilience, and a deep sense of belonging. Drawing on his experience as a teacher, librarian, camp counselor, and school leader, Carlos shares how child-led learning comes to life in a nature preschool. Together, they discuss balancing freedom with safety, building strong relationships with families, mentoring educators, and creating learning environments where children can truly thrive. Whether you're an educator, parent, or school leader, this conversation offers practical insights and a hopeful vision for what early childhood education can become when nature is at its heart. In This Episode: Why nature-based education matters now more than ever The power of curiosity and child-led learning Supporting healthy risk-taking and resilience Building confidence and belonging outdoors Partnering with families in nature-based education Leading a thriving nature preschool What the future of outdoor learning could look like Key Takeaway When children are trusted to explore, wonder, and learn in nature, they develop far more than academic skills—they grow into confident, compassionate, and resilient human beings who feel deeply connected to the world around them. Connect with Nature Forward: https://natureforward.org Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Sponsorship Opportunities: If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and share this conversation with a fellow educator or parent. Your support helps more people discover the transformative power of nature-based education. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

Raising Wild Little Wonderers: How Nature Shapes Curious, Confident Children with Sophie O'Borne What if the greatest gift we can give children isn't another activity—but the freedom to wonder? In this episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast , Victoria Hackett welcomes Sophie O'Borne , founder of Wild Little Wonderers , for a heartfelt conversation about raising children who are deeply connected to the natural world. Sophie shares the story behind Wild Little Wonderers and the experiences that inspired her work. Together, Victoria and Sophie explore how unhurried time outdoors nurtures curiosity, resilience, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning. They discuss the importance of stepping back as adults, trusting children to explore, and creating environments where wonder can flourish. Whether you're an educator, parent, caregiver, or simply someone who believes childhood should include muddy boots, open skies, and endless questions, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical ideas for bringing more nature into children's everyday lives. In This Episode: Sophie's journey to founding Wild Little Wonderers Why wonder is essential to healthy childhood development The power of unstructured outdoor play Helping children develop confidence through nature Supporting curiosity without controlling the experience Practical ways families and educators can reconnect children with the natural world Why slowing down creates deeper learning Building lifelong relationships with nature Key Takeaway: Children don't need perfect outdoor classrooms or elaborate activities to thrive. They need time, trust, and opportunities to experience the natural world for themselves. When we create space for wonder, children become more curious, capable, and deeply connected—to nature, to others, and to themselves. A Quote from This Episode: "Wonder isn't something we teach children. It's something we protect." Connect with Sophie O'Borne: 📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wild_little_wonderers/ Connect with Outdoor Classrooms: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Sponsorship Opportunities: If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. If you enjoyed this episode... Please follow the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast , leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts , and share this episode with an educator, parent, or friend who believes childhood is best experienced outdoors. Every review helps us reach more people who are passionate about reconnecting children with nature. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators! "When children are given the freedom to wonder, they discover far more than the world around them—they begin to discover who they are." 🌿

Episode 208: The Life We Model: What Children Learn from the Way We Live As outdoor educators, we spend a great deal of time thinking about what children need—but how often do we pause to consider what they are learning simply by watching us? In this reflective episode, I explore the quiet lessons we teach through the way we live. As I prepare for an upcoming hut-to-hut trek through the Swedish Highlands and put the finishing touches on my new book, Outdoor Classrooms Unlocked , I've been thinking about growth, discomfort, curiosity, and the importance of continuing to learn throughout our lives. Children notice far more than our lesson plans. They watch how we respond to challenges, whether we embrace new experiences, and how we connect with the natural world. The life we model may be one of the most powerful forms of teaching we offer. In This Episode You'll Discover: Why children learn as much from our actions as our words. How lifelong curiosity shapes the educators we become. The difference between observing life and fully participating in it. Why stepping outside our comfort zone helps us grow alongside the children we teach. How outdoor classrooms invite both children and adults to reconnect with nature, wonder, and themselves. Key Takeaway The most meaningful lessons we teach often happen without saying a word. When we choose curiosity, embrace challenge, and remain connected to the natural world, we show children what a life of lifelong learning and wonder can look like. Connect with Victoria: Resources & Links 🌿 Outdoor Classrooms: https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 Circle Membership Community Sponsorship Opportunities: If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators! If this episode resonated with you, I'd be grateful if you left a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps more educators, parents, and caregivers discover the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast and continue building meaningful connections with children through nature.

What happens when we trust children, trust nature, and trust ourselves enough to do education differently? In this episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, Victoria Hackett sits down with Mel Merchand, founder of Oro-Medonte Forest School, to explore what it really takes to build a thriving forest school and nature-based learning community. Going beyond the basics, Mel shares the behind-the-scenes realities of leading a forest school—from mentoring educators and building a strong culture to partnering with families, embracing thoughtful risk, and continually evolving as a nature-based educator. In this episode, we discuss: What most people misunderstand about forest schools The behind-the-scenes work that creates meaningful outdoor learning Hiring and mentoring exceptional forest school educators Helping families embrace child-led learning and risky play How nature continues to shape Mel's own journey as an educator The future of forest schools and outdoor education Whether you're just beginning your outdoor teaching journey or have been leading outdoor classrooms for years, this conversation will inspire you to think more deeply about what it means to trust children, trust nature, and grow alongside both. Learn more about Oro-Medonte Forest School: https://oromedonteforestschool.ca Explore professional development, certification, workshops, and the CIRCLE Membership at: https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, leave a review, and share it with another educator who believes children thrive when they learn in nature. Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Sponsorship Opportunities: If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

Nature According to Children: Voices from the Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom What do children really think about nature? In this special episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, we turn the microphone over to the children of Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom. Through a series of mini-interviews, children share their thoughts about being outdoors, their favorite nature experiences, and what they love most about learning and playing in natural spaces. Their answers are heartfelt, humorous, insightful, and often surprising. From discovering insects and building forts to making friends and finding peaceful places to explore, these young voices remind us why nature matters. As educators, parents, and caregivers, we often talk about what children need. In this episode, we simply listen. Join host Victoria Hackett as she shares these authentic conversations and invites us to see the natural world through the eyes of a child. In This Episode: What children enjoy most about being outdoors Favorite activities in nature How outdoor play sparks curiosity and imagination Children's perspectives on learning beyond classroom walls The simple joys and wonders that nature provides Key Takeaway: When we take the time to listen, children remind us that nature offers more than learning opportunities—it provides wonder, freedom, connection, and joy. Connect with Outdoor Classrooms: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with educators, parents, and anyone passionate about helping children thrive through nature-based learning. Learn more about Outdoor Classrooms and Victoria Hackett at Outdoor Classrooms Follow the Podcast: Subscribe for weekly conversations, practical ideas, and inspiration to help children learn, grow, and thrive outdoors. 🌿 Connect with Victoria: For more conversations about outdoor learning, nature-based education, and raising connected, curious children, subscribe to The Outdoor Classrooms Podcast and share this episode with a fellow educator. Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 Circle Membership Community Sponsorship Opportunities: If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

Episode # 205: Nature, Neuroscience & Meaning: What We’re Learning About Connection, Awe & the Developing Brain In this episode, I explore the connection between nature, neuroscience, and meaning-making in early childhood education . Inspired by Dr. Lisa Miller’s work, I reflect on what research is beginning to show about how nature supports regulation, attention, and a sense of connection—without drifting into “woo woo,” but staying grounded in science and classroom practice. In this episode, you will learn... ...how nature impacts the developing brain through stress regulation and attention systems. ...what neuroscience says about calm, focus, and emotional regulation in outdoor environments. ...how emerging research connects nature experiences to meaning-making and resilience. ...how Dr. Lisa Miller’s work informs our understanding of connection and awareness. ...how educators can stay grounded in science while honoring moments of awe and connection in nature. Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Sponsorship Opportunities: If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

Nature in the Classroom with Ernesto Rodriguez: Creating Calmer, More Focused Learning Spaces What if supporting children's focus, well-being, and learning could begin with the spaces where they spend their day? In this episode, Victoria Hackett sits down with Ernesto Rodriguez, founder of Nature in the Classroom, to explore how nature-inspired learning environments can help children feel calmer, more engaged, and better able to learn. Drawing on his background in school psychology, photography, and environmental education, Ernesto shares the story behind his innovative work bringing tree canopy imagery into schools and classrooms. Together, they discuss the science behind our connection to nature, the role of biophilic design in education, and why creating restorative learning environments matters now more than ever. Whether you're a classroom teacher, outdoor educator, school leader, or parent, this conversation offers practical ideas and fresh inspiration for bringing more nature into children's daily lives. In This Episode: The story behind Nature in the Classroom Why our brains respond so strongly to nature The research connecting nature and attention How classroom environments influence learning and behavior What teachers and students experience after nature-inspired transformations The relationship between indoor environments and outdoor learning Simple ways educators can bring more nature into their classrooms Why nature connection is essential for children's well-being About Ernesto Rodriguez: Ernesto Rodriguez is the founder of Nature in the Classroom, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing the benefits of nature into schools through immersive tree canopy installations and nature-inspired learning environments. His work combines school psychology, photography, and environmental education to help create spaces where children can thrive. Resources: Nature in the Classroom Facebook Instagram Contact Ernesto Connect with Victoria: For more conversations about outdoor learning, nature-based education, and raising connected, curious children, subscribe to The Outdoor Classrooms Podcast and share this episode with a fellow educator. Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Sponsorship Opportunities: If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

Episode 203: Summer Outdoor Classroom Ideas Across Four Teaching Gardens Summer brings a powerful shift in the outdoor classroom—but many educators find themselves wondering how to move beyond maintenance into intentional, meaningful outdoor learning. In this episode, we explore how to reimagine your outdoor classroom for summer through four “teaching gardens” that support curiosity, exploration, and nature-based learning. Rather than treating the outdoor space as one general area, this episode introduces a framework for designing outdoor environments that reflect the richness of the summer season. We explore four teaching garden lenses: 🌿 Gardens that Feed 🐝 Gardens that Attract Wildlife 🎨 Gardens for Art and Beauty 🔍 Gardens as Outdoor Learning Stations Each one offers a different way to support observation, inquiry, creativity, and connection with the natural world. This episode invites educators to shift their thinking—from managing outdoor spaces to designing living systems that inspire learning. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why summer outdoor learning often feels less structured for educators How to move from maintaining a garden to designing teaching gardens Four ways to structure meaningful outdoor learning in summer How nature becomes a co-teacher in your outdoor classroom Why small shifts in design can create powerful learning opportunities Mentioned in This Episode 🌿 Exploring Nature in Summer Masterclass 📅 Opens June 19 A 4-week hybrid experience for educators focused on seasonal outdoor learning: Week 1: Gardens That Feed in Summer Week 2: Gardens That Attract Wildlife in Summer Week 3: Gardens for Art and Beauty in Summer Week 4: Gardens as Outdoor Learning Stations in Summer Reflection Question What would change in your outdoor classroom if it was designed for curiosity instead of maintenance? Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Sponsorship Opportunities: If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

From Mud Kitchens to College Graduation Outdoor Learning, Childhood & the Growth We Don’t Always See This episode connects a deeply personal moment—watching a son graduate from Cornell University—with reflections on childhood, parenting, and the long arc of development. From mud kitchens to outdoor classrooms, it explores how children grow in ways that are often invisible in the moment—but undeniable over time. In This Episode Why the most important learning is often invisible while it’s happening How outdoor play builds resilience, curiosity, and problem-solving The connection between early childhood experiences and later life skills Why mud kitchens and loose parts are far more than “just play” How outdoor learning shapes both children and the adults who guide them Key Idea Childhood is not a checklist of achievements—it is a long, unfolding process of becoming. And outdoor learning asks us to trust what we cannot yet measure. Episode Takeaway: From mud kitchens to college graduation - growth is always happening, even when we cannot see it yet. Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

Episode #201: Turn Back Time with Lisa Burris: Reclaiming Childhood Through Outdoor Learning What happens when children are given time, space, and freedom to connect deeply with nature? In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Lisa Burris, founder of Turn Back Time, to explore the transformative power of outdoor learning, connection, and childhood wonder. Lisa shares the story behind Turn Back Time and how her work has created meaningful experiences for children and families through nature-based education, farm experiences, and relationship-centered learning. Together, we discuss what children truly need to thrive, the importance of unstructured outdoor play, and how nature helps children build confidence, resilience, and belonging. This conversation is a beautiful reminder that childhood was never meant to happen only indoors. In This Episode, We Explore: The story behind Turn Back Time Why nature-based learning matters now more than ever Supporting children through connection and outdoor experiences The role of risk, wonder, and freedom in childhood How outdoor learning transforms both children and educators The healing power of slowing down and reconnecting with nature What gives Lisa hope for the future of education Whether you are a parent, educator, or advocate for children, this episode will leave you inspired to see outdoor learning in a whole new way. Connect & Learn More from Turn Back Time www.tbtinc.org www.facebook.com/turnbacktimeinc Instagram: @tbtfarm Call to Action If this episode inspired you, share it with an educator, parent, or friend who believes in the power of childhood, nature, and connection. 🔗 Connect with Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 ⭐️ Enjoying the podcast? Follow, rate, and review to help others discover outdoor learning. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

Episode #200: Aging Well Through Nature: Lessons from My 93-Year-Old Mother’s Garden This Mother’s Day, I visited my 93-year-old mother and spent time in her garden—a living, breathing oasis filled with flowers, birds, sunlight, and the quiet rhythm of seasonal change. As I watched her move through this familiar space, I found myself reflecting on something we often overlook: nature is not just for children. In this episode, I share a personal story alongside research and reflection on how nature supports healthy aging, emotional wellbeing, memory, purpose, and quality of life in older adults. From gardening to sunlight to sensory connection, we explore why outdoor spaces matter deeply across the entire lifespan. We also consider what it means to age in place surrounded by nature—and why beauty, rhythm, and connection remain essential at every age. In This Episode A visit to my 93-year-old mother’s garden What nature offers in aging and elderhood Research on nature and healthy aging Emotional and cognitive benefits of gardens Why nature matters across the lifespan Key Takeaway Nature is not optional in later life—it is essential to wellbeing, connection, and how we continue to feel alive. Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

The Legacy You’re Already Living: Nature-Based Education, Outdoor Learning & the Power of Attention What if legacy isn’t something we leave behind—but something we build every day? In this episode, we explore how nature-based education shapes children through attention, connection, and repeated experiences outdoors. Through a story from the Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom, a simple puddle becomes a powerful example of how curiosity, observation, and place-based learning create lasting impact. This episode is for educators and parents who want to deepen children’s relationship with the natural world—and understand how those small moments become meaningful over time. In This Episode: Rethinking legacy in education The role of attention in outdoor learning How nature-based education builds connection and care Why returning to the same place matters How identity forms through experiences in nature Key Takeaway: What children learn to notice, they learn to value. Reflection: What are you teaching children to notice? Closing: Small moments outdoors can shape how children see—and care for—the world. 🌿 Keep noticing. 🔗 Connect Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 ⭐️ Enjoying the podcast? Follow, rate, and review to help others discover outdoor learning. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

🎧 Beyond the Front Door with José Bergeron: Small Shifts That Transform Family & Classroom Life Outdoors What if the most meaningful learning—for both families and classrooms—begins just beyond the front door? In this episode, I’m joined by José Bergeron , author of Beyond the Front Door: Embracing Nature for a Happier and Healthier Family , to explore how simple, everyday moments in nature can transform the way children live, learn, and connect—at home and in school. We talk about why so many children are disconnected from the outdoors—and how small, intentional shifts can bring nature back into daily rhythms. José shares insights on child development, the power of unstructured play, and how outdoor experiences support focus, creativity, and emotional well-being. This conversation is for parents, caregivers, and educators who want to create meaningful, low-pressure ways for children to learn and thrive outside. 👋 Meet José Meet José Bergeron , author of Beyond the Front Door: Embracing Nature for a Happier and Healthier Family . He is passionate about helping families and educators reconnect children with the natural world through simple, meaningful everyday experiences. His work centers on the idea that small shifts—stepping outside, slowing down, and making space for unstructured play—can have a powerful impact on children’s well-being, learning, and connection. 🌿 In This Episode, We Explore: Why nature is essential for children’s growth—at home and in school Simple, doable ways to bring outdoor learning into everyday routines The role of unstructured play in both family life and education How time outside supports focus, creativity, and emotional regulation Practical ideas for educators to extend learning beyond classroom walls 🔗 Connect with José Want to learn more from José Bergeron ? Website: https://backwoodsmama.com/ Instagram: @thebackwoodsmama TikTok: @thebackwoodsmama Book: Beyond the Front Door: Embracing Nature for a Happier and Healthier Family You can also explore more of José’s writing and seasonal nature inspiration on her website, where she shares practical ideas for helping families reconnect with the outdoors year-round. Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

Episode #197: Playful Personalities: Designing Outdoor Classrooms that Invite Every Child In What if engagement in your outdoor classroom isn’t about better activities—but better design? In this episode, we explore playful personalities —the natural ways children engage with the world—and how they can become powerful on-ramps to learning. From builders and explorers to observers and storytellers, you’ll learn how to design spaces that invite every child in. With real stories and simple shifts, you’ll begin to see your outdoor classroom as a place of belonging, curiosity, and meaningful learning. 🌿 In This Episode What playful personalities are Why children engage differently outdoors How to design with multiple entry points Simple ways to make your space more inclusive 💭 Reflection Who is your space inviting in… and who might still be waiting at the edge? 🔗 Connect Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 ⭐️ Enjoying the podcast? Follow, rate, and review to help others discover outdoor learning. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts , and rate or comment on Spotify . Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!