06/03/2026
This past weekend, educators, caregivers, and nature enthusiasts gathered for our Nature & Outdoor Learning Workshop, sponsored by Ivy Tech Community College Muncie, and what a joyful day it was. Together, we explored, created, wondered, and played as we learned practical ways to deepen children's connections with the natural world.
Led by Erica Oliver of the Ball State Field Station & Environmental Education Center and BY5's Emma Dragoo, the workshop centered around the Growing Up WILD curriculum and the many possibilities that emerge when we view nature as a classroom without walls.
One of the phrases that echoed throughout the day was, "There's no bad weather, only bad clothing choices." While often shared with a smile, the statement sparked meaningful conversation about how we can prepare children—and ourselves—for outdoor learning in all seasons. Rather than viewing weather as a barrier, we considered how thoughtful planning, proper clothing, and flexible expectations can open the door to year-round exploration.
Participants reflected on the incredible benefits outdoor experiences offer young children. Outside, children are developing confidence, creativity, curiosity, self-regulation, risk-assessment skills, gross motor abilities, and a lifelong sense of stewardship for the world around them. Outdoor learning invites children to move, discover, imagine, and connect in ways that are difficult to replicate indoors.
We also explored an important idea: not every outdoor learning environment needs to be a forest or nature preserve. Meaningful experiences can happen anywhere. Whether a program has access to wooded trails, a small patch of grass, a playground, or a parking lot, there are opportunities to observe seasonal changes, investigate insects, collect natural materials, and engage in child-led discovery.
Sometimes the question is not, "What is missing?" but rather, "What possibilities already exist here?"
One particularly meaningful discussion focused on insects and stewardship. Children are often fascinated by bugs, yet curiosity can sometimes be accompanied by fear or even aggression. We discussed ways to shift children's perspectives through wonder and observation. Questions like "What do you think this worm does all day?" or "How might this beetle help our garden?" encourage children to see living creatures as valuable parts of an ecosystem deserving of care and respect.
Another theme that emerged was the importance of boredom. In a culture that often prioritizes constant stimulation, outdoor spaces provide children with the rare opportunity to slow down, observe, imagine, and create their own adventures. Boredom outdoors is not something to avoid—it is often the beginning of creativity, problem-solving, and deep engagement.
Throughout the day, we challenged ourselves to reframe common barriers into opportunities. If it's too cold, how can we better support layering and weather preparation? If families are concerned about messy clothes, how can we normalize dirt as evidence of meaningful learning and play? If children have limited access to outdoor gear, how can communities come together to provide support?
We also practiced shifting our language from telling to wondering. Instead of providing answers, we explored how thoughtful questions can deepen children's thinking:
"What color is this leaf?" becomes "What do you notice about this leaf?"
"Be careful!" becomes "What's your plan for getting across?"
"That's a bird's nest." becomes "Who do you think might live there?"
These simple shifts invite children to become observers, thinkers, and problem-solvers rather than passive recipients of information.
Of course, one of the best parts of the workshop was the opportunity to play. Participants created human tracks, designed bird sock puppets, experimented with watercolor and collage techniques, and experienced firsthand many of the activities featured in the Growing Up WILD curriculum. The room was filled with laughter, creativity, and the kind of joyful engagement we hope children experience every day.
As the workshop concluded, there was a shared sense of renewed energy and inspiration. Nature-based learning does not require perfection, expensive materials, or ideal conditions. It begins with curiosity, a willingness to explore, and an openness to seeing the world through a child's eyes.
Thank you to everyone who joined us. It is always a privilege to learn alongside educators and caregivers who are committed to creating meaningful experiences for young children. We left reminded that some of the most powerful learning opportunities are waiting just outside the door.
