Nature Play Workshop for Families

With this fun and practical guide to outdoor play, be inspired to unplug and spark a nature connection vital for children's healthy growth and development.

Children and families are plugged into electronics and often disconnected from direct experiences in nature. This beautifully photographed, highly visual resource offers tangible approaches to nature-based learning and play for children. Parents and teachers discover the benefits of outdoor learning and simple ways to facilitate unplugged nature connection in every season. Inspired by nature preschools, forest kindergartens, and forest school models the world over, this guide includes "Voices from the Field" with advice from experienced nature-based educators, too. This insightful guide balances nature play experiences with hands-on projects using natural materials and is an ideal jumping off point for immersive nature play.

Examples of nature-based child experiences outlined in the book include:

Wildlife observation and trackingNature sounds, songs, and poetryGardening and cooking with wild ediblesPrintmaking, charcoal drawing, dyeing, and shadow playJournaling inspired by nature

With Nature Play Workshop for Families, any child, anywhere, can spark a nature connection.

"Voices from the Field" includes more ideas and tips contributed by leading educators, including:

Sally Anderson, Sol Forest School, Tijeras, New MexicoYash Bhagwanji, Florida Atlantic UniversityLauren Brown, Asheville Farmstead SchoolPeter Dargatz, Woodside Elementary School, Sussex, WisconsinMonica French, Wild Haven Forest Preschool and Childcare, Baltimore, MarylandPatricia Leon, Miami Nature PlayschoolSheila William Ridge, Shirley G. Moore Lab School, Institute of Child Development, University of MinnesotaBeth Savitz, Irvine Nature Center, Owings Mills, MarylandMaria Soboleski, New Mexico School for the DeafPaige Vonder Haar, Bunnell House Early Childhood Lab School, Fairbanks, Alaska Susie Wirth, Arbor Day Foundation and Dimensions Foundation