What does Nature-Based Curriculum look like in Winter?  

Nature Play has proven to be beneficial in all learning domains. Richard Louv’s research has shown that time in nature improves test scores, along with, healthier and happier children and families. Exploring Nature in Winter provides especially wonderful opportunities for Natural Teachers to make unexpected connections with their curriculum.

What is Nature Based Curriculum? 

Nature-Based Curriculum:

• Is a hands-on, interactive learning experience that uses Nature as the main teaching tool.
• Can be used both indoors and out.
• Inspires teachers to use both their indoor and outdoor environments equally when designing learning experiences for children
• Can be used to enhance curriculum across all domains of development
• Reconnects children with Nature

How can Literacy Inspire Nature-Based Curriculum?

Find a topic you are interested in and find a nature-based book that connects or find a nature-based book that inspires a topic.

• Get Curious: How does a tree become a Log?
• Read a Book: Life Under a Log
• Discuss: Ask questions & make a hypothesis
• Discuss vocabulary: Decomposition
• Add an “Observation” Log to your Outdoor Classroom
• Observe over time
• Roll the log over and discuss Habitat under the Log
• Keep a class journal, invite children to take pictures, draw, etc.

What does Nature-Based Curriculum look like in Winter? 

Winter offers a completely different environment for children to explore. This is the beauty of having four seasons. Think. What is happening in Nature in Winter?

• Animals are hibernating
• Birds are enjoying your bird feeders
• Snow is falling
• Animals are making tracks
• Temperatures are dropping
• Ice is forming

Do you see the difference? Do you see how Winter can open the doors to a host of new adventures? Now I want to hear from you. I challenge you. Can you think of a Nature-Based Curriculum idea from these “seeds of inspiration?” Leave your idea in the comments below.

Do you want to learn more? Check out the Exploring Nature in Winter Master Class. Register Today!