Risky play is often a central component of nature-based programs... But what does it mean and how do you do it? Common risks may include using tools, balancing on logs, building campfires and climbing trees. These encounters offer many beneficial opportunities for students to assess risk, build confidence, and develop socially and physically.

See for yourself with this guided observation and professional development opportunity focusing on risky play. Learn about appropriate risk, how to do a risk-benefit analysis and various facilitation tips. This facilitated site visit not only includes live, in-person observation of children and teachers in our outdoor classroom, but includes accompanying facilitated learning experiences designed to create a memorable and impactful training for education practitioners.

Please note: The introductory course prior to this program included a basic-level introduction of nature based education & this content will not be covered in depth during the ‘risky-play’ track program.

This is Part 2 of a New Series in the 2022-23 School Year

This three-session series is scaffolded to build your understanding of nature-based education with repeat visits to Merry Lea that focus on a different topic each time. 

1. Nature PreK Observation & Professional Development Introduction
See what a Nature Preschool looks like in action with this guided observation and professional development opportunity. Leave with tangible steps for your own classroom or learning setting.

When: October 10 or 27 | 11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.

2. Risky Play
Common risks like using tools, balancing on logs or building campfires allow students to assess risk, build confidence, and develop socially and physically. Learn about appropriate risk, how to do a risk-benefit analysis and various facilitation tips.

When: January 24 or 30 | 11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.

3. Excursions: Beyond the Classroom
Regular time in a familiar outdoor place is important, but visiting novel spots is valuable too! Unexpected discoveries, child-directed exploration and more can result from facilitated excursions. Learn and observe how these are planned and implemented.

When: April 19 or 27 | 11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.