WORKSHOP: Designing Natural Outdoor Spaces where Children and Communities Thrive
Explore the world of natural outdoor classroom design using hands-on materials, with the guidance of a Nature Explore designer and educator team. Engage ten research-based guiding principles of design and learn how outdoor natural classrooms can build community and enhance educational experiences for all. Hear how it works in programs across the nation, and gain practical insights you can apply in your community. Have fun building along the way.
Speakers
Heather FoxDirector of Professional Groth and Outreach, Dimensions Educational Research Foundation
Jeff LindstromDesign Director, Nature Explore, Nature Explore
Jill Primak,Senior Outdoor Classroom Designer, Nature Explore
More Information
Allow Registration:No
Capacity Unlimited:No
Indicate how the topic is applicable to Health, Safety, Welfare (HSW) Design credits.:It will not be submitted.
Learner Engagement:Learners will engage their hands and minds in playful outdoor classroom planning to experience and highlight key considerations for outdoor learning, play, and exploration. With an experienced educator and design team trained in facilitation and adult learning techniques, participants will feel heard and seen as they share their own insights while expanding their knowledge base. They will plan their next steps towards bringing more nature, playful, intentional design, and heart-centered support to your communities. This session highlights how programs can use research-based outdoor classroom design—drawing on work from Dimensions Educational Research Foundation—to improve educator well-being, strengthen family engagement, and enhance developmental outcomes for children.
Learning Objective 1:Using hands-on natural materials, recall why nature-rich spaces and materials work for children and educators and articulate how particular ten guiding principles to design support learning and growth.


