Hey there, fellow nature enthusiasts and caretakers of our adorable tiny explorers! It's Jessica Holder here from Discovery Professional Learning, ready to sprinkle some extra fun and innovation into your outdoor summer escapades with the little ones. Buckle up because we'll dive into a world of giggles, discoveries, and unforgettable experiences!
Infants and toddlers are often overlooked in discussions about nature-based learning despite being at a crucial stage of development where exposure to the natural world can have profound impacts. This blog aims to spotlight these youngest explorers and their unique needs, providing valuable insights and practical tips for those working with this age group. By focusing specifically on infants and toddlers, we aim to fill a gap in resources and empower teachers and caregivers to create inclusive outdoor learning environments that cater to all age groups. Whether it's adapting activities for little ones who are just beginning to discover the world around them or ensuring safety measures are in place for curious toddlers on the move, this blog serves as a springboard of information to support educators in making outdoor learning accessible and enriching for our youngest learners. Because every child, regardless of age, deserves the opportunity to connect with nature and embark on a journey of wonder and discovery from the earliest stages of life.
Nature-based learning is crucial for infants and toddlers as it provides a multi-sensory environment rich in stimuli that ignites their curiosity and fosters holistic development. Interacting with the natural world stimulates all their senses, from the feel of grass under their tiny fingers to the sound of birds chirping overhead, laying a strong foundation for sensory integration and cognitive growth. Moreover, nature offers endless opportunities for open-ended exploration, encouraging problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking skills to flourish. Exposure to diverse natural environments also nurtures emotional resilience, empathy, and a sense of wonder, shaping well-rounded individuals from the earliest stages of life. In essence, nature-based learning isn't just about outdoor play; it's about nurturing the young mind and soul, fostering a deep connection to the world around them and laying the groundwork for a lifetime of learning and appreciation for the wonders of nature.
Nature-based education provides an optimal environment for fostering self-regulation skills in both children and adults alike. The inherent unpredictability and sensory richness of outdoor settings require individuals to adapt, problem-solve, and regulate their emotions and behaviours in real-time. Exploring natural environments offers children countless opportunities for self-directed play, where they learn to navigate risks, manage their impulses, and regulate their emotions through hands-on experiences. Similarly, adults find solace and rejuvenation in nature, allowing them to decompress from the stresses of daily life and develop resilience in the face of challenges. Furthermore, research has shown that spending time outdoors reduces stress levels and promotes mental well-being for people of all ages, enhancing their capacity for self-regulation. Thus, investing time and resources into nature-based programs benefits individual development and cultivates a culture of resilience and self-awareness, making it a worthwhile endeavour for all involved.
Embracing nature-based learning may initially require educators to step outside of their comfort zones, but the rewards are immeasurable. It's about shifting our perspective and recognizing that nature-based education is not confined to vast wilderness or elaborate outdoor spaces—it's a state of mind that can be cultivated even in the most limited environments. Starting small, such as with just one plant in a classroom, can be a powerful catalyst for incorporating nature into daily learning experiences. From there, the goal is to gradually increase outdoor time, regardless of the available space. Even parking lot playgrounds or small patches of greenery can become vibrant outdoor classrooms where children can engage with the natural world. By prioritizing outdoor time and leveraging even the most modest resources, educators can create meaningful nature-based experiences that support holistic development while remaining realistic and attainable within limited budgets and spaces.
For infant and toddler educators looking to dip their toes into nature-based learning, starting can be as simple as taking that first step outdoors tomorrow. Begin by incorporating short outdoor sessions into your daily routine, whether it's a nature walk around the neighbourhood or a sensory exploration in a nearby green space (or even through your classroom window). Introduce natural materials into indoor activities, like using leaves for art projects or incorporating plants into classroom decor (Be sure to consult resources and learn about toxic plants and considerations for safety. Click here! For our local resource from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit). As you gradually integrate nature into your curriculum, share your enthusiasm with colleagues and invite them to join in your outdoor adventures. However, if you encounter resistance from those who do not support this approach, approach them with empathy and understanding. Offer to share resources, research, and success stories to demonstrate the benefits of nature-based learning. Encourage open dialogue and collaboration, emphasizing the potential for enriching educational experiences and fostering a deeper connection to the natural world for all learners. And, of course, use the powerful tool of pedagogical documentation to share stories that illustrate the impact of this approach and the ways it supports young learners.
If you still are wondering; where do I begin? Here are some experiences that may spark some curiosity and excitement not only for the children but also for YOU! The thing I love most about nature-based learning is that it also prioritizes the experience of the educators in the classroom and supports well-being, self-regulation, and stress management. Isn’t everything just a little bit better when we are outside?!
- Sensory Safari Scavenger Hunts: Forget the traditional scavenger hunts; we're taking it up a notch with a sensory twist! Create a checklist of items that appeal to different senses: a soft leaf to touch, a fragrant flower to smell, a crunchy twig to snap, and so on. Encourage the tots to use all their senses to explore the wonders of nature around them. Not only is this a blast, but it also fosters sensory development and awareness. This experience can be done inside or outside and could be scaled up or down depending on the group of children and the space where you work.
- Nature's Art Studio: Move over, Picasso, because we're bringing artistry to the great outdoors! Set up an art station with eco-friendly paints made from natural materials like mud, flower petals, and berries. We call this Nature Art! By providing open-ended, natural materials, children are encouraged to use different critical thinking skills than they would with typical creative materials. Let tiny artists unleash their creativity as they create using natural materials to create mandalas, natural dyes, or 3D structures. This hands-on experience not only sparks imagination but also connects them to the beauty of the natural world.
- Picnic Playdates with a Twist: Elevate your standard picnic by turning it into a culinary adventure! Set up a mini "farmers market" where the little ones can explore different fruits, veggies, and textures. Let them taste, touch, and smell various foods, introducing them to new flavours and sensations. Bonus points for incorporating locally sourced (possibly from your own garden) organic produce to support community farmers and teach the importance of sustainable living from a young age.
So there you have it, folks—a deep dive into the often-forgotten infant and toddler age group. For those who are unsure about this approach, summer is the perfect time to jump right in! We wanted to spark your excitement and provide you with innovative ways to make this summer unforgettable for our pint-sized nature enthusiasts. Let's nurture their curiosity, spark their imaginations, and cultivate a lifelong love for the great outdoors, one adventure at a time. Until next time, keep exploring and embracing the wonder that surrounds us! 🌿✨
