Outdoor Classrooms Podcast

This entire month we talking about Getting Outdoors. In this episode, we are talking about MUD which also makes it the perfect time to be collaborating with The Outdoor School Shop! The proper Outdoor Gear can make all the difference in the world when kids are invited to play in the Mud. Make sure you get your waterproof on and jump in the mud with 20% off the entire full-price RAIN category at The Outdoor School Shop. Use code: PODCAST at check out. HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE: In this episode, we are talking about: Why MUD PLAY is worth the mess.What is Mud Play?Why mud play is more than just fun.Why do kids love mud?What else is happening when children play in the mud, besides getting dirty and building their immune systems?How to prepare for Mud Play?Mud Play and MindfulnessMEET VICTORIA: Founder of Outdoor-Classrooms.com, The Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom Nature Classes, the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, and The CIRCLE Membership Community.The foundation of my work is twofold: to inspire teachers, parents & school communities to make their own outdoor classrooms and to do so on a shoestring budget.In communicating all the possibilities, I developed a framework for what I call The Five Phases of Teaching Outdoors which can be found in The Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp. To continue these important conversations, I created the Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE Membership Community which includes a toolshed of methods and resources for cultivating Outdoor Classrooms and Nature Based Teaching.At Outdoor Classrooms, I make it simple, easy, and cost-effective for you to start, develop, and enjoy your own one-of-a-kind outdoor classroom… one that integrates perfectly with your curriculum, outdoor space, and budget.Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve had an outdoor classroom for years, here you will find the tools, training, community, and time-tested principles you need to:Make and sustain your own one-of-a-kind outdoor classroom on a shoestring budget.Gain confidence in your ability to teach outdoors even if you’ve never done it before.Know how to keep your students engaged, enthused, and learning well outside…in rain, snow, or sun.Get new inspiration, ideas, and resources for what, where, when, why, and how to teach outdoors.Experience more joy and a deep sense of satisfaction as you watch your students become more curious, engaged, and excited about what they’re learning.CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: FREE Seedling Newsletter WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected]: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE MembershipThe Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp Seeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card DeckMentioned in this episode:Exploring Nature in Spring MasterclassExploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

This entire month we talking about Getting Outdoors. We are also collaborating with The Outdoor School Shop! Are you looking for Outdoor Gear? Check out the Outdoor School Shop for all you need to keep you and your kiddos dry and outside. Get your waterproof on and jump in the mud with 20% off the entire full-price RAIN category at The Outdoor School Shop. Use code: PODCAST at check out. HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE: In this episode, we are talking with Julia Donnelly O'Neill, founder, and owner of The Toronto Nature School. The focus of this important conversation centers around finding nature in Urban Cities. Tips for using Public Spaces as your Outdoor ClassroomHow to Create a Forest School in the CityLooking at how to use a Beach in Nature SchoolHow Julia went from Classroom Teacher to Founder of the Toronto Nature SchoolThe Importance of Routines and Systems in an Urban Nature SchoolMEET JULIA DONNELLY O'NEILL: Nature School founder Julia Donnelly O’Neill is an Ontario Certified Elementary Teacher with a certification from Evergreen for Outdoor Learning and Play who understands the importance of outdoor learning for children. Julia has been part of a collaborative project led by the David Suzuki Foundation to develop outdoor curriculum units.TORONTO NATURE SCHOOL: An immersive education model that encourages children to get to know the world around them. The Toronto Nature School offers a unique program that is based on the Forest School movement. They offer a variety of programs including Nature School, Kindergarten, recreational, and weekend programs. The benefits of learning in nature have been researched and the results show that students who learn outdoors benefit in many areas inside and outside of academics.CONNECT WITH JULIA DONNELLY O'NEILL: EMAIL: [email protected]: https://www.torontonatureschool.ca/CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: FREE Seedling Newsletter WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected]: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE MembershipThe Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp Seeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card DeckMentioned in this episode:Exploring Nature in Spring MasterclassExploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

This month we talking about Getting Outdoors and collaborating with The Outdoor School Shop. "There's no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing." HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE: In this episode, we are talking with Alyssa Marsh, founder and owner of The Outdoor School Shop. The focus of this important conversation centers around how to create pathways for getting gear onto bodies. Get your waterproof on and jump in the mud with 20% off the entire full-price RAIN category at The Outdoor School Shop. Use code: PODCAST at check out. TOPICS COVERED: Common Questions and Solutions from SchoolsImportant steps for getting dressed for the outdoorsHow the Outdoor School Shop collaborates with schoolsDoes gear really make a difference? Why is gear so expensive? Tips and Tricks for Dealing with CostWhat are Educator Kits?How to find an outdoor schoolWe also chat about if you could only buy one item for outdoor learning, what would that be? MEET ALYSSA MARSH: Alyssa Marsh is an entrepreneur, mom, outdoor enthusiast, and passionate consumer educator in the outdoor apparel world. Spending the majority of her career in fashion wholesale merchandising and marketing, she had a lightbulb moment when she realized how difficult it was to find the appropriate gear for her son at forest school in Minnesota. She spent long hours combing the web for not only the right gear, but for guidance on what type of gear worked best for outdoor schools. She and some other players in the children's apparel world saw this as a need that they could address. The solution was a dedicated {online} source of outdoor clothing for children enrolled at outdoor schools. And so, Outdoor School Shop was born and launched in 2021.THE OUTDOOR SCHOOL SHOPOutdoor School Shop’s goal is to make it easier for parents and teachers by curating a selection of outdoor gear’s that suitable for all kids regardless of the type of outdoor program they attend. In essence, it’s a one-stop-shop for outerwear that would live up to the heavy demands of outdoor schools. But they didn’t stop there. Outdoor School Shop also provides valuable content about the benefits of outdoor education and how to make the most of it for your family. They have comprehensive checklists of exactly what your kiddos will need for outdoor school, based on your location. Outdoor School Shop is also the proud owner of the most comprehensive directory of outdoor-oriented schools and programs in North America. If you’re looking for an outdoor school for your child, their directory can help you find an outdoor school near you. Or if you are a school founder looking to get your program in front of interested parents, check out to see if you are listed, and if not, contact ODSS!CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: FREE Seedling Newsletter WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected]: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE MembershipThe Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp (provides the assessment tools for each phase) Seeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card DeckMentioned in this episode:Exploring Nature in Spring MasterclassExploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE: This month we have been exploring the Infrastructure of an Outdoor Classroom. In this episode, we dig into how to design your outdoor space using the Four Types of Teaching Gardens. TOPICS COVERED: Four Types of Outdoor Classroom Teaching Gardens:Gardens that FeedGardens as Outdoor Learning StationsGardens for Art and BeautyGardens that Attract WildlifeCONNECT WITH VICTORIA: FREE Seedling Newsletter WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected]: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE MembershipThe Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp (provides the assessment tools for each phase) Seeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card DeckMentioned in this episode:Exploring Nature in Spring MasterclassExploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE: MEET VALERIE: Valerie Bang-Jensen is a Professor of Education at Saint Michael's College, where she has earned the college’s Rathgeb Teaching Award. She received her A.B. at Smith College and MA, M.Ed., and Ed.D. degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University. Valerie has taught in K-6 classrooms and library programs in public and independent schools in the U.S. and Paris. She serves as a consultant for museums, libraries, schools, and gardens for children. Valerie is interested in children's literature and the connections between literacy and first-hand experiences. Valerie co-founded the Teaching Gardens of Saint Michael’s College, including one called Books in Bloom, which features flowers and plants found in children’s books, and another called the Word Garden. HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE: In this episode, we are getting a "behind the scenes" look into Valerie Bang-Jensens' new book called Literacy Moves Outdoors: Learning Approaches for Any Environment. TOPICS COVERED: Why Move Literacy Outdoors?Who do you prepare for Spontaneity? What is a Story Walk? What is a Word Garden? Why study Signage? Which Path to Take? Getting StartedCONNECT WITH VALERIE: TWITTEREMAIL BOOK RESOURCES MENTIONED: Literacy Moves Outdoors by Valerie Bang-JensenBooks in Bloom by Valerie Bang-Jensens and Mark LubkowitzSharing Books, Talking Science by Valerie Bang-Jensen & Mark LubkowitzSaint Michaels Teaching Gardens Videos includedCONNECT WITH VICTORIA: FREE Seedling Newsletter WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected]: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE MembershipThe Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp (provides the assessment tools for each phase of teaching outdoors) Mentioned in this episode:Exploring Nature in Spring MasterclassExploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE: I am often asked by directors, " We want to transform our outdoor space and move all our educators into a model of teaching outdoors. Where the heck do we start?"Today we are going to explore how to begin bringing your Outdoor Classroom vision to life by beginning with the child in mind. TOPICS COVERED: What is your WHY? How to discover your children’s outdoor learning journey and why it matters for your outdoor design & teaching goals.How our assessment tools help evaluate your own outdoor teaching practice and help understand essential Infrastructure elements & Playscape features. The secrets to transforming your Outdoor Space with the children in mind and how to find inspiration. CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: FREE Seedling Newsletter WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected]: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE MembershipThe Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp (provides the assessment tools for each phase of Teaching Outdoors) Mentioned in this episode:Exploring Nature in Spring MasterclassExploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

BUCKLE UP AS WE TRAVEL TO FIND "SEEDS OF INSPIRATION" FROM OUTDOOR CLASSROOMS ALL OVER THE WORLD. Each month, we visit a new Outdoor Classroom and celebrate the power and purpose of Teaching Gardens. We also highlight the brilliant creative work of the many educators who have taken their outdoor space from an unproven concept to an engaging Outdoor Classroom. Many are graduates from our Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp, members of our CIRCLE community, and experts in the nature-based learning field. HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE: Today I have Jena Jauchius on for the 7th episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast.This episode is another sneak peek into one of our monthly Outdoor Classrooms Tour and Talks inside The Circle Membership community. We will be talking about the images of Jena's Sensory Garden within her Outdoor Classroom. If you would like to visual version of this interview please join us in The Circle! MEET JENA: Jena is the founder of N is for Nature Play, a landscape architect, nature play expert, artist-builder, garden fanatic, and Mom of twins. Jena has dedicated her decade's career to designing children's nature play areas, sensory gardens, learning landscapes, and custom playscapes. HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE: In this episode, we are getting a "behind the scenes" look at Jena's Sensory Path and her incredible Outdoor Classroom. A delightful conversation about Nature Play and the 7 Senses with "seeds of inspiration" for creating your own Outdoor Classroom Infrastructure. TOPICS COVERED: Why is Sensory Play Important? Elements to add to an outdoor space that inspires wonder and curiosity.The story behind Jena's signature Sensory Path.Nature Play for the 7 SensesPhilosophy of Nature Play.DIY approaches to creating Outdoor Classroom InfrastructureCONNECT WITH JENA: WEBSITE: N is for Nature PlayEMAIL: Jena Jauchius Nature play for the 7 Senses E-Book by Jena JauchiusCONNECT WITH VICTORIA: FREE Seedling Newsletter WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected]: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE MembershipThe Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp (provides the assessment tools for each phase of teaching outdoors) Mentioned in this episode:Exploring Nature in Spring MasterclassExploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE: Today we are going to look at The Five Phases of Teaching Outdoors and how to use this Framework as a guide. TOPICS COVERED: Phase 1: InfrastructurePhase 2: Get OutdoorsPhase 3: Teaching and Learning OutdoorsPhase 4: WeatherPhase 5: SustainabilityCONNECT WITH VICTORIA: FREE Seedling Newsletter WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected]: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE MembershipThe Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp (provides the assessment tools for each phase) Mentioned in this episode:Exploring Nature in Spring MasterclassExploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE: Today we are going to talk about mindfulness, intentions when creating a curriculum, and how to use children's books for inspiration. TOPICS COVERED: How Jean Skaane co-let a group of parents and faculty design and implement 5,000 square feet of an outdoor classroom and garden space at a 5-3 public school in Marblehead, MA.How to talk to preschoolers about mindfulnessThe use of mindfulness exercises and props How to work with youth and teens using mindfulness.Yoga, Mindful Eating, and NutritionCONNECT WITH VICTORIA: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected]: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:FREE Seedling Newsletter The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE MembershipThe Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp (provides the assessment tools for each phase) Mentioned in this episode:Exploring Nature in Spring MasterclassExploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE: I wholeheartedly believe that we need to get Nature Pedagogy into all undergraduate and graduate degree programs as part of educators' qualifications. I also believe Nature Pedagogy should be part of Parent Education Classes and accessible to anyone interested in reconnecting nature with children.Today we are going to look at Pedagogy in Education and the who, what, where, when, and how of Nature Pedagogy.TOPICS COVERED:What is Pedagogy in Education?What are the 5 Pedagogy Theories?What is Nature Pedagogy?Why do we need Nature Pedagogy?Where is Nature Pedagogy in the Outdoor Classroom?When is Nature Pedagoies important?How can we create our own Nature Pedagogy?CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected] CLASSROOM RESOURCES:The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE MembershipMentioned in this episode:Exploring Nature in Spring MasterclassExploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

BUCKLE UP AS WE TRAVEL TO FIND "SEEDS OF INSPIRATION" FROM OUTDOOR CLASSROOMS ALL OVER THE WORLD. Each month, we visit a new Outdoor Classroom and celebrate the power and purpose of Teaching Gardens. We also highlight the brilliant creative work of the many educators who have taken their outdoor space from an unproven concept to an engaging Outdoor Classroom. Many are graduates from our Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp, members of our CIRCLE community, and experts in the nature-based learning field. HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE: Today I have Bianca Hagen on for the 3rd episode of the Outdoor Classrooms PodcastThis episode is a sneak peek into one of our monthly Outdoor Classrooms Tour and Talks inside The Circle Membership community. We will be talking about the images of Bianca's Outdoor Classrooms. If you would like to visual version of this interview please join us in The Circle! MEET BIANCA: Bianca is a former foreign policy analyst turned mother of three and forest school teacher. After having children, Bianca discovered a passion for child development, leading her on an 8-year journey of researching this topic. Through her research, Bianca came across the forest school methodology, eventually deciding to open her own forest kindergarten on her 9 acre-property near Charlottesville, VA. Bianca has a Master's degree in Foreign Policy from Georgetown University, a Bachelor’s degree in International Studies and Spanish. She is a certified Forest School Teacher through the Forest School Teacher Institute and has received training in the Regio Emilia pedagogical approach to early childhood education.TOPICS COVERED: In this episode, Bianca and I talk aboutHow children are wired for nature. The importance of play-based learning. Emergent curriculum in Forest SchoolsHow children's senses are naturally ignited outdoorsThe belief is that nature provides all the elements for setting the foundation for a child's life-long love of learning. RESOURCES MENTIONED: BOOK: There is No Such Thing as Bad Weather by Linda Akeson McGurkCERTIFICATION: The Forest School Teacher InstituteCONNECT WITH BIANCA: PROGRAM: The Hidden Valley Forest SchoolEMAIL: [email protected] WITH VICTORIA: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected] CLASSROOM RESOURCES:The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE MembershipMentioned in this episode:Exploring Nature in Spring MasterclassExploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE: Today we are creating a foundation for outdoor learning and talking about the Power of Nature-Based Play Outdoors. We discuss our own childhood memories of play and move into the importance of understanding the 6 Elements of Nature-Based Play Outdoors. TOPICS COVERED: In this episode, I talk aboutNature Deficit Disorder6 Elements of Nature Play: Connection, Empathy, Storybuilding, Collaboration, Wildness, and Imagination.We plant the Nature Play seeds and ask the question...What's your vision for cultivating outdoor classrooms for learning in nature? CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected] CLASSROOM RESOURCES: The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE MembershipMentioned in this episode:Exploring Nature in Spring MasterclassExploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

How Does Nature Impact Young Children's Wellbeing?Here’s what to expect in this episode:Before we dig into today’s topic, Victoria shares a bit of of her own garden story—and the “why” behind starting this podcast.This episode lays the foundation for everything to come. Understanding your why is the first step toward meaningful outdoor teaching.We also explore one of the biggest challenges facing children today—and how connecting with nature can play a powerful role in supporting their wellbeing.TOPICS COVERED: In this episode, I talk aboutThe 5 Benefits of Outdoor Classrooms:Better Test ScoresDecrease in Behavior ProblemsDecrease StressRestores Depleted AttentionImproves Immune Functionand why it is so important to be teaching outdoors now.CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected] CLASSROOM RESOURCES:The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE MembershipMentioned in this episode:Exploring Nature in Spring MasterclassExploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

A weekly podcast about how to cultivate learning gardens and nature-based curricula for children. Transform your outdoor space into a magical wonderland for playful learning while listening to stories of transformation, joy, and wonder. Subscribe now! Thank you so much for listening!Remember to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram!If you have any general questions or comments for the show, click HERE.If you'd like to be a guest and/or advertise with us, click HERE.Come on over to our virtual playground at Outdoor Classrooms.Mentioned in this episode:Exploring Nature in Spring MasterclassExploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/