nature play

Students participate in an outdoor exploration during a nature-based in an early childhood classroom.

My Ultimate Guide to Nature-Based Early Childhood Education

Updated: December 28, 2023 Key Points As an early childhood professional, I am excited to share about nature-based early childhood education. Let’s define this type of program and its benefits; the classroom environment and nature-based activities foster a lifelong connection with nature. What is Nature-based Early Childhood Education? Nature-based early childhood education incorporates the natural…

Grey and beige children's toy houses with a large penguin stuffed animal.

The Best Penguin Activities: 50 Play-Based Learning Ideas

These 50 penguin activities for preschoolers and toddlers will inspire a love of penguins and nature. Each play-based activity helps children actively engage in learning. Gross Motor Penguin Activities These penguin-based gross motor activities get kids moving. While learning all the fun ways penguins move, children will want to test their abilities. Kids can develop…

The Best Outdoor Cognitive Activities for Toddlers

The Best Outdoor Cognitive Activities for Toddlers

Outdoor cognitive activities for toddlers are engaging, sensory-stimulating ways to build essential thinking skills. Here are dozens of outdoor cognitive activities based on the cognitive skills: Types of Outdoor Cognitive Activities: Outdoor play has a significant impact on cognitive development for early learners. Toddlers begin learning about the relationship between themselves and the natural world….

Favorite Nature Scavenger Hunt Ideas for Kids | Free Templates

Favorite Nature Scavenger Hunt Ideas for Kids | Free Templates

Updated: March 17, 2024 Nature scavenger hunts are an excellent way for children to learn and explore their natural surroundings. I’m sharing my favorite nature scavenger hunt ideas for kids, along with resources to create your own.  How to Make a Nature Scavenger Hunt Creative Nature Scavenger Hunt Ideas More Ideas Free, Printable Templates Download…

8 Types of Outdoor Learning Activities for an 18-Month-Old

8 Types of Outdoor Learning Activities for an 18-Month-Old

Outdoor learning activities help develop all domains of learning. Playing outside allows toddlers to explore the natural world through hands-on play. Outdoor play also allows for risk-taking play, an essential piece of toddler development. Outdoor learning stimulates all the senses, including the proprioceptive and vestibular senses. Already feel like you know about toddler sensory development?…

Raise an Environmental Steward: Build a Love of Nature Early

Raise an Environmental Steward: Build a Love of Nature Early

Environmental stewardship involves preserving natural environments through conservation and sustainable practices. Children need to spend time outdoors in order to build a relationship with nature. Maybe it’s all the early childhood trainings I have attended, but I have repeatedly had to do this specific activity. Everyone closes their eyes and focuses on their favorite childhood…