Join Merry Lea for a two-day immersion into nature-based education. At the core of this professional development opportunity there will be multiple site visits to observe preschool and elementary students engaging with nature. Ask educators about their pedagogy, and experience a variety of educational styles through the eyes of many passionate educators integrating the outdoors into their curriculum. Professional Growth Points can be provided upon request.

Conversations and deep-dives into relevant topics including: 

• What does observation and assessment look like in the forest?
• What is the teacher’s role in outdoor classrooms?
• How does free play contribute to academic success?
• What is it about nature’s classroom that engages children so deeply?
• What does the research say about the worth of this type of experience for children in today’s world?
• Do I have to be a naturalist to take children into nature?
• How might this look in my neck of the woods? 

All-inclusive Fee: $195 covers workshop registration, dorm-style lodging* on Merry Lea’s campus for Wednesday and Thursday night, and all (5) meals. *Registration is REQUIRED for this event.

Opportunities will include:

• Self-selected site visits (3): public school, Waldorf inspired, homeschool, community garden, nature center, and private backyard
• Hands-on practice with observation and assessment techniques in real time.
• Networking and dialogue with school founders and nature-based practitioners.
• Plus more on: risk/benefit analysis, place-based learning, campfire cooking, flow learning, nature journaling, Montessori connections, the core principles of nature-based learning and building partnerships.

*Lodging: Dorm-style lodging accommodations are on-site at Rieth Village on Merry Lea's property.  Accommodations allow two people per room and include a shared bathroom space, living room and small kitchenette. Bedding and towels are not provided.  

Two nights of lodging are included in the workshop fee. This fixed workshop fee cannot be adjusted based on a participant’s decision to stay overnight or not. Participants desiring alternative accommodation in area hotels or at home may do so at their own expense (this will not affect workshop price).

Statement on financial accessibility: If financial limitations prevent you from participating in this workshop, please contact Kaitlyn Sproles at Merry Lea to discuss scholarships or sliding-scale options: kwsproles@goshen.edu

Schedule Overview:

Wednesday, February 19

Evening arrival, night activities and overnight stay at Merry Lea

Thursday, February 20

Extended site visits, child development workshop, networking, and more!

Friday, February 21

Mini-topic sessions of choice including: risk/benefit analysis, budgeting, free play, building community partnerships, grant wiring, naturalist studies and more.

Departure 1:30 p.m.