Outdoor Classrooms Podcast

• 139: Nature's Classroom: Montessori Magic at Harborlight with Elisa Pitkin

  Nature's Classroom: Montessori Magic at HarborlightEpisode Description:Join us for an insightful journey into the heart of Montessori Outdoor Classrooms at Harborlight Montessori School in Beverly, MA. In this episode, Eliza Pitkin shares her passion and experiences in cultivating an enriching learning environment where nature and education seamlessly intertwine. Discover how outdoor classrooms are enhancing children's learning experiences by engaging their senses and fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world.Episode Highlights: Introduction to Harborlight's Outdoor Classrooms:An overview of the Montessori method and its application in outdoor settings.The unique features of Harborlight Montessori's approach to outdoor learning. Eliza Pitkin's Personal Journey:Eliza's story of integrating outdoor education into the Montessori curriculum.Her inspiration and vision for creating an immersive educational experience. The Impact of Nature on Learning:Discussing the benefits of outdoor classrooms on cognitive and emotional development.How the natural environment stimulates curiosity and creativity among students. Success Stories and Testimonials:Sharing anecdotes of student experiences and their transformative learning moments.Feedback from teachers and parents on the positive impact of this educational model. Challenges and Triumphs:Overcoming obstacles in implementing outdoor classrooms and raising chickens.Celebrating the milestones achieved and future aspirations. Final Thoughts:Eliza's reflections and hopes for the continued evolution of outdoor learning.An invitation for educators and parents to explore and embrace this innovative approach.Call to Action:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review! To learn more about the Montessori approach and how you can incorporate outdoor learning activities, visit Harborlight Montessori School's website or reach out to Eliza Pitkin for more insights.Meet Elisa: Elisa Pitkin is the Director of Education at Harborlight Montessori School in Beverly MA, and has over 30 years of experience teaching and leading Montessori educational programs. Elisa has a BA in Early Childhood Education and has a Master’s Degree in Education. She has been teaching for the Montessori Institute of New England as well as Endicott College. Elisa is a Montessori trained teacher for Early Childhood, Lower Elementary and Upper Elementary. She has been at Harborlight for 29 years and most recently has working on their outdoor classroom spaces, including garden beds, raising chickens, and creating spaces for children to learn and work. Contact Elisa: Harborlight Montessori Elisa Pitkin, Director of [email protected] Essex Street Beverly, MA 01915 Phone 978-922-1008CONNECT WITH VICTORIA:WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL:

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• 138: Nature is the HEART of the Story with Jodi Simpson

  Nature is the HEART of the Story with Jodi SimpsonThis special episode features Jodi's Simpson's presentation that she shared with the CIRCLE Membership. This presentation is a captivating journey through her innovative story workshop for her kindergarteners, integrating nature as the heart of storytelling. Jodi’s approach not only inspires creativity but also taps into the developmental growth of her young learners. Her session highlighted sensational photos of her classroom setup, illustrating the immersive environment she creates for her students. The highlight of the episode displays the 3D stories crafted by the children, showcasing their imaginative interpretations and connection with nature.Episode Highlights:Introduction to Jodi Simpson's Teaching Philosophy: Jodi emphasizes the importance of nature in fostering creativity in young learners. She shares her unique perspective on how nature can serve as the heart of storytelling, providing an authentic and engaging learning experience for children.Nature-Centric Story Workshop: Details about her story workshops, where she uses elements of nature to guide storytelling. The focus is on how these workshops encourage children to express themselves and learn organically.Visual Feast for CIRCLE Members of Classroom and Setup: Viewers are treated to stunning photos of Jodi’s classroom environment, reflecting her commitment to integrating natural elements into her teaching space. This visual presentation complements her storytelling approach, making the learning space itself an inspirational story.Showcase of 3D Stories by Kindergartners: The episode concludes with a fascinating display of how to share the 3D stories created by her students, highlighting their creativity and the profound impact of Jodi's teaching methods.Call to Action: Curious viewers are invited to join the CIRCLE Membership to gain full access to Jodi’s workshops and similar inspirational content. Already a CIRCLE Member? Go to the Outdoor Classrooms Tour and Talk section in your Membership platform and bring your reflections to our next Roundtable. MEET JODI: Joy has been the building block of Jodi Simpson’s teaching career of 22 years. She currently teaches kindergarten and has taught preschool, first grade, and second grade. She is also the author of the Circle-Time Poetry series, published by Scholastic in 2005, as well as, Read Snack & Learn With Favorite Picture Books in 2004,. Sharing ideas and activities with other teachers helped her grow as a mentor teacher for many student teachers. She has also worked with a team of author-collaborators for our school district’s curriculum. Jodi’s learning and teaching journey includes being the recipient of the North Fork Teacher of the Year 2014 and Colorado Teacher of the Year Finalist 2017. Currently, she a part of a nature-based learning cohort of teachers that supports other educators in teaching students outdoors. Jodi Simpson’s newest books would fall into Scholastic’s “reproducible activity books” category for grades PreK - First Grade, similar to her earlier books. The new set of books are specifically created for the latest trends in these educational movements: nature and place-based learning, structured foundational literacy skills (rhyme, phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, comprehension), STEAM investigations, and social-emotional learning. *Three new titles: 1. Circle Time Poetry: In the Woods, 2. Circle Time Poetry: Let’s Take a Walk, and 3. Circle Time Poetry: Play & Wonder are resources for teachers to use to get outside and

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• 137: The Role of Imagination in Ecological Education with Dr. Gillian Judson

  The Role of Imagination in Ecological Education with Dr. Gillian JudsonDiscussion Highlights:Walking Curriculum: Discover the innovative approach behind the Dr. Judson's Walking Curriculum, aimed at integrating imagination and place-based learning. Learn how outdoor educational practices can nurture curiosity and ecological awareness into your outdoor classroom. Role of Imagination in Ecological Education: Delve into how imagination serves as a crucial tool in fostering ecological understanding and responsibility among students, encouraging deeper connections with nature.Cognitive Tools in Learning: Explore the concept of cognitive tools as essential elements in imaginative teaching, enhancing students' capacity to engage with new information meaningfully.Leadership and Imagination: Hear Dr. Judson's insights on how imaginative approaches can revolutionize educational leadership, fostering environments that embrace creativity and drive social and ecological progress.Soil as a Metaphor: Engage in a thought-provoking discussion on how Dr. Judson uses soil as a metaphor for learning and growth.Meet Dr. Gillian Judson:Dr. Gillian Judson is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Education at Simon Fraser University. She gratefully works on unceded traditional Indigenous territories, including those of the Semiahmoo, Katzie, kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem), Kwantlen, Qayqayt and Tsawwassen Nations. She investigates imaginative and ecological teaching practices (PreK through post-secondary) with expertise in a pedagogy called Imaginative Education and Imaginative Ecological Education. She also researches the role of imagination in educational leadership, with a specific focus on leadership for social and ecological justice. Her latest books are entitled Cultivating Imagination in Leadership: Transforming Schools and Communities (Judson & Dougherty, Eds., Teachers College Press, 2023), Imagination and the Engaged Learner: Cognitive Tools for the Classroom. (Egan & Judson, 2016),Engaging Imagination in Ecological Education: Practical Strategies for Teaching (Judson, 2015), and A Walking Curriculum (Judson, 2018/2019); A Walking Curriculum for the Early Years (Judson, Mckay & Redford, 2023). Check out her other books here.LinksimaginED website: www.educationthatinspires.caThe Cultivate Imagination project website (podcasts and blogs): www.cultivateimagination.caGillian's SFU faculty webpage: https://www.sfu.ca/education/faculty-profiles/gjudson.htmlGillian's bookshttps://www.amazon.com/stores/Gillian-Judson/author/B0045DWQ4G?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=trueOutdoor Classroom Resources: Explore our

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• 136: Unexpected Beginnings: My Outdoor Classroom Story

  Unexpected Beginnings: My Outdoor Classroom StoryEpisode OverviewIn this episode titled "Unexpected Beginnings: My Outdoor Classroom Story," you'll discover how an outdoor courtyard environment at my children's elementary school transformed traditional learning experiences and led to surprising personal and professional growth for me. We delve into the unique challenges and rewarding moments that come with embracing nature as a backdrop for education. Learn how this experience changed my entire philosophy of education, and brought with it so many unexpected beginnings. Key TakeawaysDiscovery and Transformation: Learn how the shift from a conventional classroom setting to the great outdoors catalyzed new learning methods and personal growth.Overcoming Challenges: Hear inspiring stories about overcoming initial hurdles and resistance, leading to a successful implementation of our outdoor classroom.Impact on Learning: Understanding, through anecdotal story, how fresh air and open spaces promote creativity, engagement, and enthusiasm among students and teachers alike.Call to ActionJoin the Community: If you're intrigued by innovative education ideas and want to connect with likeminded individuals, join us at www.outdoor-classrooms.comFeedback and Stories: Share your thoughts on this episode and tell us your story. Email [email protected]. Outdoor Classroom Resources: Explore our Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification program. Join the Discussion: Continue the conversation in our CIRCLE Membership Community. Upcoming Events: Don’t miss out on our future live events! Subscribe to the Seedling News. Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps us grow and bring more valuable content to you.How to leave a review: Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today's episode, consider leaving us a review. Here’s how:For Apple Podcasts:Open the Apple Podcasts app.Search for Outdoor Classrooms PodcastTap on our podcast, scroll down to the 'Ratings & Reviews' section.Tap 'Write a Review', rate the podcast, and write your review.For Spotify:Open the Spotify app.Go to the Outdoor Classrooms podcast page.Tap the three dots, and select ‘Rate Show.’Leave a rating of your choice.

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• 135: The Importance of a Mark: Nature-based Journaling with Amy Wood

  Episode 135: The Importance of a Mark: Nature-based Journaling with Amy WoodIn this enlightening episode of our podcast, we delve into the art and science of nature-based journaling with expert and CIRCLE member Amy Wood. Join us as we explore the transformative power of combining nature with reflective journaling to deepen our young childrens' understanding and connection with the natural world.Episode Highlights:Introduction to Nature-Based Journaling: Amy introduces the research and concept of nature-based journaling, explaining its significance in today's fast-paced world. She articulates how this practice can enhance mindfulness and foster a deeper connection with nature.The Power of a Mark: Discover the impact that making a simple mark on paper can have on young children. Amy shares insights into how journaling these observations helps capture the essence of moments in nature, turning them into lasting memories.Practical Tips and Techniques: Amy offers practical advice on how to start your own nature journal program in your classroom, including the tools you need and methods to stay consistent with your children's journaling practice.Benefits for Educators and Students: Learn about the advantages of incorporating nature-based journaling into outdoor classrooms. Amy discusses how this practice can support learning outcomes and enhance student engagement with their environment.Inspiration for Your Own Practice: Amy shares stories from her own journaling journey in her outdoor classroom and encourages listeners to find their personal style, emphasizing that there's no right or wrong way to engage in nature-based journaling with young children.Featured In:Outdoor Classroom Tour and Talks in the CIRCLE Membership CommunityOutdoor Classrooms Podcast Episode 135Meet Amy: Amy Wood’s passion for nature has been a defining feature of her classrooms throughout her 25-year career in early childhood education. Guiding toddlers through kindergarteners in various Montessori schools, she has consistently integrated the natural world into her teaching. Currently, Amy serves as the lead preschool teacher at SHED Children’s Campus, a nature-based, Reggio Emilia-inspired school in Andover, MA, where her students explore the woods daily.In 2018, while working with toddlers, Amy attended a workshop titled “Why ‘Making Learning Visible’ is Important for Parents, Teachers, and Children.” Inspired by the workshop’s focus on capturing and showcasing the learning process, she developed a journaling program to support all areas of development. This program also addressed a common classroom challenge: the upset children felt when their prized drawings were misplaced. By incorporating journaling, Amy created a way for children to preserve and reflect on their work, fostering pride and deeper engagement in their learning. This transformative approach has since become a staple in her classrooms.Amy holds a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in math and science from Wheelock College and a Master of Arts in Montessori Education from St. Catherine University. She also has Montessori credentials at both the Infant & Toddler and Early Childhood levels, reflecting her deep expertise in child-centered education.A heartfelt congratulations to Amy Wood for her extraordinary journaling project that continues to inspire and enrich our understanding of nature's role in education and personal growth.Contact Amy HERE. Outdoor Classroom Resources: Explore our

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