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CURRICULUM AND LEARNING ENVIRONMENT    * 2 HOURS * LEVEL 1

Page 2

Children and Nature

​Course Menu

Attention:  This is a 2 hour course.

It is expected that it will take you close to 2 hours to complete this training.  You may work on the course in increments of time that fit your schedule.  When you leave the course, make a note of what page that you are on. When you return use the MENU to return to where you left off.  If you need help, click on the student support chat on the bottom left corner.
To move through the course, use the NEXT PAGE button on the bottom right corner of each page. Each page is submitted to us as you click on the next page button. Do not skip pages.
Be sure to read the course materials, watch videos, and complete assignments as you encounter them on each page.

Navigating the Course

To proceed through the training, read the page, and scroll to the bottom. Click on the next page button to continue through the training.  

The course does not "save" your progress. Use the checklist provided to track your progress, and click on the link in the menu to return to where you left off in the training.

Menu for this Course

For easy access, bookmark this page. Use the menu below to navigate to the page which you would like to return to.
** This course is approximately 2 Hours. **

Learning Outcomes

Course Overview

New research actually shows that nature is essential for the brain. Even fleeting exposures to natural settings outside the windows can improve brain performance. One study demonstrates that just looking at a natural scene can improve scores on tests of attention and memory. Nature also has a calming effect on the brain. It can catch our attention without overloading our brain. Allowing children the time to nurture a connection with nature, we are granting them the freedom to develop intrinsic motivation - the ability to recognize what it is they want and to develop the desire and focus to achieve their goals. The experience of children and nature has to be part of daily life--the opportunity not only for playing in green space, but also the opportunity for being alone, having the chance to daydream, to wonder, to just be there.
Level
2
  • Washington STARS credit: Curriculum & Learning Environment (2 hours)
  • CDA Content Area: Advancement of Physical and Intellectual Development (2 hours)
Objectives: 
  • Understand the growing concern regarding children’s lack of engagement with nature and the possible fear of nature by family members. 
  • Identify the negative health consequences that can result from the lack of children’s’ contact with nature.
  • Identify the physical, social, and psychological impacts of nature on child development.
  • Gain an understanding of the importance of nature play to the healthy development of the young child. 
  • Become knowledgeable about and gain skills in developing and facilitating nature play experiences. 
  • Identify ways to create a nature play environment indoors and outdoors to support the need for children to connect with the natural world.
​Technical Requirements:
  • Internet access (any speed)
  • Laptop or PC
  • Updated internet browser
Materials:
  • Laptop, PC, or other device

Meet our Team of Trainers

​​This course has been collaboratively created, organized, and developed by our team of trainers, educators, administrators and specialists. We strive to maintain high quality online training methods while adhering to DEL standards for adult learning and meeting the needs of our students.

For more trainer information please visit the links below.
** Having trouble opening handouts? Adobe Reader is required to open PDF files.  Download Adobe Reader HERE. **