NLI Newsletter – August 2021

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NLI NewsletterAugust 2021

Creating environments for healthy human development and a healthy biosphere for generations to come.

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Natural Learning Initiative

August 2021

Check out the NLI Website!

Live broadcast to NatStart2021

Broadcasting from NLI Demonstration Site, A Safe Place, Raleigh, July 27, as part of the fabulous international field trip series, owner Kim Shaw and teachers conducted a field visit and Q&A discussion with Natural Start 2021 conference participants. Access full NatStart2021 content at https://conference.naturalstart.org/ and extended NLI story here.

Photo: Owner Kim Shaw introduces the NLI design (2011) and incremental development process with NLI’s Dr. Nilda Cosco, leader of the POD early childhood outdoor play and learning environment program. Matt Babb, NLI’s communications specialist broadcasts the session via Zoom through a smart phone.

Girl balances on tree stumps in a natural play area, surrounded by trees and grass.

Highlight: OLE! Texas

This is a statewide initiative in which DSHS coordinates organizations, communities and stakeholders in efforts to support Texas ECE facilities to create and sustain quality outdoor learning environments. It is based on the Preventing Obesity by Design (POD) model which is associated with higher physical activity levels and a 22% reduction in sedentary behavior among preschoolers.

Elements that Make a Perfect Playground

BY LAUREN LEFFER

“Play is where we begin to learn and relate to the world, says Nilda Cosco, a professor at NC State University in Raleigh. “Play is the richest activity in all ages,” she says. “Play is learning.” And, although it can happen anywhere, outdoor spaces are central for much of children’s frolicking”

Child climbing on playground equipment, promoting outdoor play and nature-based learning.

Outdoor play area with white picket fence, gazebo, and educational signs teaching garden skills.

Register for the Early Childhood Outdoor Learning Environments Certificate Course!

Registration is now open for the Fall section, Sept. 14 – Dec. 7. The online course is self-paced and worth 2.4 CEUs.

Natural Learning at Home® August

This publication includes simple seasonal recipes, activities, and facts that can be used in both childcare centers and at home. These fun resources are a great way to celebrate the season!