Leveling Up Nature Based Learning Through Play

At North Branch Nature Center

July 20 – 24, 2026

$1,300 ($1,750 with 3 graduate credits). Financial Support Available

12 – 20 students
For PreK – 3rd grade educators

Instructors: Jenna Plouffe & Harriet Hart

This course is for teachers who are already taking their students outside but want to bring their outdoor experience to the next level. We will explore ways to enhance curriculum and deepen students’ connection to nature through the intentional introduction of new tools and loose parts. Participants will create and experiment with elements and invitations that build on seasonal affordances and the ever-developing play/learning of young students. Essentially, we will be focusing on all the fun parts of teaching outdoors. Participants will finish this course with concrete strategies and ideas for teaching young children outdoors and a deeper understanding of how nature can be a partner in this endeavor.

During this course we will immerse ourselves in the rhythm of place-based curriculum, engaging in discussions and intensive play-driven lessons held entirely outdoors. Our experiences throughout the week will reflect those of a nature-based early childhood setting, with additional time to envision the integration of these philosophies into our teaching practice.

Click here for more details and to register.