Best Virtual Playground Podcasts (2024)

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127: Beyond SMART: Goals Rooted in Outdoor Classrooms 19:19

8d ago19:19

19:19

In this enlightening episode of "Beyond SMART: Goals Rooted in Outdoor Classrooms," we delve into 7 ways to set goals that not only meet but exceed traditional standards. Explore how outdoor classrooms can inspire a more holistic approach to goal setting by tying in personal vision, emotional connection, and meaningful outcomes. Whether you’re an e…

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126: Forest Kindergarten Adventures with Ann Ranger at the SHED Children’s Campus 52:33

15d ago52:33

52:33

Episode 126: Forest Kindergarten Adventures with Ann Ranger at the SHED Children’s Campus Episode Summary This is an Outdoor Classroom Tour and Talk. Member of the CIRCLE Community have access to the behind the scenes photos. A brief overview of the day in the life of a Forest School within a larger program. Emergent Curriculum, Reggio Emilia, Trad…

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125: Seeds of Change: Growing Educational Gardens with Leila Mireskandari founder of Kids Growing City 43:54

22d ago43:54

43:54

Show Notes: Seeds of Change: Growing Educational Gardens Episode Overview In this episode, we dive into the transformative impact of creating educational gardens that feed with Leila Mireskandari. Discover how these gardens are not only teaching kids about gardening but also fostering environmental awareness and life skills. Key Topics Discussed Fo…

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124: Nature’s Playlist: Weaving Frameworks, Pedagogy, and Schemas into Outdoor Play 7:30

29d ago7:30

7:30

Episode Overview LISTEN TO THE PLAYLIST HERE In this special playlist, we dive into the vibrant world of outdoor play, exploring diverse frameworks, pedagogical approaches, and schemas. Tune in as we unravel the tapestry of outdoor education through eight thoughtfully curated episodes that will inspire and transform your understanding of play. Epis…

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123: Unlocking the Outdoors: Teacher Certification Program 10:46

1M ago10:46

10:46

Unlocking the Outdoors: Teacher Certification Program Introduction Brief overview of the Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification program. Mention the importance of outdoor education. Step 1: Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp Introduction to the foundational skills and knowledge. Overview of the topics covered, including the Five Phases of Teaching Outdoor…

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122: Discover Nature’s Hidden Gems: An Outdoor Classroom Tour & Talk with Emma Donnelly at the Chicago Botanic Gardens 50:49

1M ago50:49

50:49

Episode Description: In this enchanting Outdoor Classroom Tour and Talk episode, we take you on a virtual tour of the Chicago Botanic Gardens with Emma Donnelly, an expert educator well-versed in transforming outdoor spaces into vibrant classrooms. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems within the gardens and explore the benefits of incorporating na…

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121. The Transformative Power of Nature-Based Education Workshops for Teachers 16:52

2M ago16:52

16:52

The Transformative Power of Nature-Based Education Workshops for Teachers Episode Description: In today’s episode, we delve into the transformative power of nature-based education for educators. We discuss why it’s crucial for teachers to invest in professional development in this area and explore the myriad benefits it brings to both educators and…

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120: Beyond the Classroom: Innovative Environmental Education with Julie Travaglini 29:29

2M ago29:29

29:29

In this episode, we sit down with Julie Travaglini, the Senior Director of Education and Curriculum at Allegheny Land Trust. Julie shares her journey and passion for environmental education, emphasizing the importance and benefits of connecting people with nature. She discusses various strategies for effective teaching and engagement, highlighting …

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119: Don't Just Listen – Experience Buddy Builders Outdoors for Real Impact 13:15

2M ago13:15

13:15

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, we explore the concerning decline in playtime among children and how it affects their ability to form friendships and develop essential social skills. Join us as we discuss the underlying reasons behind this decline and its long-term implications. Key Points Discussed: Introduction…

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118: End of Summer Special: Top 5 Podcasts Playlist 5:23

2M ago5:23

5:23

End of Summer Special: Top 5 Podcast Playlist In this dynamic episode, we explore five transformative educational approaches that shape the future of outdoor learning. We begin with the "Walden Project," an immersive nature-based initiative inspired by Henry David Thoreau, which fosters a deep connection with the environment through experiential ed…

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117: The Power of Persistence in Outdoor Classrooms 17:26

2M ago17:26

17:26

Episode 117: The Power of Persistence in Outdoor Classrooms In this episode, I explore the transformative world of outdoor classrooms, emphasizing their benefits and the vital importance of connecting students with nature. Drawing from my own experiences and expertise in outdoor education, I discuss how persistence plays a crucial role in achieving…

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116: The Answer is YES, The Question is HOW with Andy Webster from the Walden Project 45:00

3M ago45:00

45:00

Podcast Episode 116: The Answer is YES, The Question is HOW with Andy Webster from the Walden Project Guest Bio: Andy Webster Andy is a New York State Certified Earth Science Teacher with a decade of experience as a public school science teacher. In 2017, Andy left the traditional classroom setting to begin The Walden Project: a full-time outdoor e…

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115: Legacy of Bloom: Family Tales of Gardening with the Hacketts 25:29

3M ago25:29

25:29

Legacy of Bloom: Family Tales of Gardening with the Hacketts Episode Overview: In this special episode of "Legacy of Bloom," we sit down with my 91 year old Mum Judith, and older brother, Christopher, to explore their deep-rooted love for gardening. Spanning several generations, the Hacketts share personal stories, cherished memories, and invaluabl…

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114: Balanced and Barefoot: Q&A with Author Angela Hanscom 57:06

4M ago57:06

57:06

Introduction Welcome to today's special episode! We are thrilled to host Angela Hanscom, the esteemed author of Balanced and Barefoot. This LIVE Q&A event was inspired by our insightful discussions during the book club within the CIRCLE Membership. After diving deep into Angela's valuable insights, our members were inspired to initiate separate dis…

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113: Roots of Learning: Nature in Elementary Science Education with Victoria Zablocki from Naturally Teaching 38:43

4M ago38:43

38:43

In this episode of "Roots of Learning," we explore the innovative ways that elementary school teachers can integrate nature into their science education curriculum. Our discussion delves into the importance of connecting young learners with the natural world and how this connection can enhance their understanding of scientific concepts. Key Points …

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112: Day Four: Growing Minds: Gardens as Outdoor Learning Stations 33:19

4M ago33:19

33:19

Summary: In this episode, we explore how gardens can be transformed into outdoor learning stations that enrich educational experiences for students. We'll discuss the benefits of hands-on learning, the integration of gardening into various subjects, and the benefits of adding learning stations to your outdoor classroom. Key Points Discussed The mai…

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111. Day Three: Cultivating Creativity: Gardens for Art & Beauty 30:03

4M ago30:03

30:03

Description: In this episode, we delve into the fascinating intersection of gardening and artistry in your outdoor classroom. Discover how cultivating this teaching garden can be a profound form of creative expression and contribute to the wellness of your children and aesthetic beauty of your outdoor classroom. Join us as we explore inspiring stor…

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110: Day Two: The Edible Eden: Gardens that Feed 30:58

4M ago30:58

30:58

Episode Summary: In this episode, we delve into the world of why edible gardens with a focus on the benefits of planting kitchen gardens with kids. We also share inspiring engagement questions. Benefits: 1. Educational Opportunities 2. Hands-On Learning 3. Healthy Eating Habits 4. Responsibility and Patience 5. Connection to Nature 6. Physical Acti…

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109: Day One: Unveiling the Secrets of Summer Wildlife Gardens 32:07

4M ago32:07

32:07

Introduction Welcome to the first episode of our free 5-part series, "Unlock the Secrets of Summer Teaching Gardens"! Today, we will embark on a fascinating journey to discover the hidden gems in your summer wildlife garden. I'm Victoria Hackett, your guide through this adventure, where we’ll explore various ways to attract and support wildlife in …

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108: Unlock the Secrets of Summer Teaching Gardens: FREE 5-Day LIVE Event 12:41

5M ago12:41

12:41

Episode Summary Welcome to an exciting episode of Outdoor Classroom Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to announce a special opportunity for all garden enthusiasts, educators, and nature lovers. Join us for the "Unlock the Secret of Summer Teaching Gardens" - a FREE 5-Day LIVE Event designed to immerse you and your children in the beauty and wisdom of …

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107: Outdoor Classroom CIRCLE Book Club: #2 Balanced and Barefoot by Angela Hanscom 10:54

5M ago10:54

10:54

Have you heard? I have just announced our second Outdoor Classroom’s CIRCLE Book Club selection! It's Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children by Angela Hanscom. Book description: Today's kids have adopted sedentary lifestyles filled with television, video games, and computer screens. Bu…

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The Engagement Equation: Navigating Choice Overload for Viewer Success 34:03

5M ago34:03

34:03

Columbia Business School Professor Sheena Iyengar is a leading expert in the study of choice. In this episode, host Vicki Lins delves into how the explosion of streaming services and the era of Peak TV have provided consumers with an unprecedented array of options, often leading to decision paralysis and choice overload. Together, they explore the …

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106: Tuning in to Outdoor Play with Meagan Duncan from Connected Kids Thrive 35:04

5M ago35:04

35:04

Today I'm chatting with Meaghan Duncan about how effective communication increases cooperation and elevates connection. She believes, with the right tools, it is possible to turn moments of contention and correction, into moments of quality connection outdoors in nature. Listen and learn her tips and tricks for both parents and educators. MEET MEAG…

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105: Equitable Access to Nature: Breaking Barriers with Mandy Slavik from the Boston Outdoor Preschool Network 41:31

6M ago41:31

41:31

Mandy and I discuss the Boston Outdoor Preschool Network's Forest Days Program in this episode. From there, we talk about how important it is for everyone to have equal access to nature, how to start a nature program in the city, and how to connect nature to curriculum! Pour yourself a cup of tea and listen. I promise you, this conversation will mo…

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104: Releasing the Artist Within: A Children's Outdoor Art Show with Laura Delgado from The Montessori Tree 41:03

6M ago41:03

41:03

Have you ever heard a two year old child announce to you, "I am an artist."? This is exactly the result of Laura Delgado's tireless effort to create an all inclusive art show for young children. Do you want to host an art show, but don't know where to start? Laura discusses her experiences with the Outdoor Classroom Art Show as well as success stra…

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103: The Future of Outdoor Learning: Adapting to Change 11:49

6M ago11:49

11:49

There has to be a good reason for the change because it is difficult. Usually, change is reactive. A scarcity attitude is one of the main obstacles I hear from educators who are reluctant to switch to an outdoor teaching paradigm. Not Enough Time Why does it lack? The response from the students The anticipation of out-of-control behavior Absence of…

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102: Revitalizing Tradition: A Journey with The Secret Garden That Feeds 12:43

6M ago12:43

12:43

Have you been keeping up with my stories on Instagram? This year, I decided to try something entirely different after nearly giving up on planting and maintaining my edible garden. In this episode, listen to the story that inspired me to test out a new system in my Secret Gardens that Feeds. I've been using photos to record the process so far, but …

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101: Therapeutic Forest School: Perspectives on Nature-Based Wellness with Tamara Wineland from AdventureME & Trek Outdoors 40:48

6M ago40:48

40:48

This episode is an Outdoor Classrooms Tour and Talk with Tamara Wineland from AdventureME and Trek Outdoors. A licensed micro-forest and nature school serving children ages 3-5 in Black Forest, CO. Their approach is not an unsupervised free-for-all, but a behind-the-scenes facilitation of exploration and learning. They use a blended pedagogy that a…

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Marcien Jenckes, President of Xumo, on Engaging Audiences and Innovation 41:43

7M ago41:43

41:43

Guest, Marcien Jenckes, president of Xumo shares insights into their holistic approach aimed at captivating audiences and monetizing content through advertising. Xumo's strategy spans the distribution of streaming devices, collaborations with TV manufacturers, and the expansion of FAST channels. Their swift adoption underscores the platform's appea…

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100: One Hundred Episode CELEBRATION!!! 10:32

7M ago10:32

10:32

For most schools, the 100th day falls sometime in February or early March. Many teachers use the countdown in their lessons by having children tally the days on a whiteboard or by filling a countdown chart with numbers or stickers. Many wear special t-shirts to celebrate the 100th day of school. In looking back at the most listened to Outdoor Class…

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99: Starting a Nature School with CIRCLE Member Katie Minor from Wonderforest School 29:56

7M ago29:56

29:56

In this Outdoor Classroom Tour and Talk we are talking with CIRCLE Member Katies Minor about her how her family childcare program evolved into the Wonderforest School. In this episode, we learn about Katies start-up journey, and how she brings adventure, fun, and learning outdoors. Not matter where you are in the process of creating an outdoor clas…

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98: Exploring Nature in Spring: A Masterclass 8:46

7M ago8:46

8:46

Due to the overwhelming success of the winter course, I have made the decision to virtually unlock the Secret Gardens Outdoor Classrooms and share my detailed method for bringing the learning gardens back to life in time for spring. Are you an educator who adores using your outdoor space as a teaching tool? Are you interested in knowing more about …

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97: Inquiry-Based Learning in an Outdoor Classroom with Edwina Cottino 46:05

7M ago46:05

46:05

Teaching outdoors fosters natural opportunities for inquiry-based learning as it involves open-ended investigations into the wonder of children. In this episode, all the way from Australia, we have Edwina Cottino from Edslessons.com sharing her insight on advocating for outdoor play, nature pedagogy and inquiry-based learning outdoors. We discuss e…

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96: Five Ways to Introduce Poetry into the Outdoor Classroom 11:10

7M ago11:10

11:10

Nature is a great resource for inspiration, especially when getting children to write. Inspired by Episode #95, today’s mini-episode digs deeper into simple ways to introduce poetry to children in your outdoor classroom. They include: 1. Share and discuss poetry 2. Recite and act out poems outdoors 3. Write poems in a sit spot outdoors 4. Integrate…

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95. Legacy Of Impact: Changing The Face Of Public Education Through Outdoor Classrooms with Jodi Simpson 1:02:41

7M ago1:02:41

1:02:41

After the pandemic, many teachers began teaching outside. The woods, trails, playgrounds, and parks near their schools became their classrooms. Educators happily discovered that nature provided new academic and social-emotional learning opportunities. Nature-based learning, which can be as simple as bringing natural materials into the classroom or …

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94: Massachusetts Environmental Education Conference 10:43

7M ago10:43

10:43

This month I presented at the MEES (Massachusetts Environment Education Conference). In this episode, I am sharing highlights from my workshop and the overall conference. I am also reflecting on the importance of gathering in person with like-minded educators. becoming an advocate of environmental education sharing our outdoor classroom stories. CO…

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93: Ignite Outdoor Learning & Try Something New Everyday 12:56

7M ago12:56

12:56

Have you ever tried something new and felt like you were writing with your non-dominant hand? Do you ever hear the monkeys in your mind singing, “You can’t do that!” “You are crazy for even trying!” BUT you go ahead and do it anyway…. Are you an educator thinking about moving your classroom outdoors despite the uncertain and vulnerable feelings of …

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92. Seven Tips to Harvest a Connection to the Natural World 13:24

8M ago13:24

13:24

Are we doing enough in our outdoor classrooms to harvest a connection to the natural world? In this mini-episode we discuss 7 tips for connecting children with nature in your outdoor classroom. 1. Start with Curiosity as it is the first step to active learning. Ask yourself: What am I curious about in nature? What are the kids curious about in natu…

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Work Matters Segment- Putting Kentucky First Initiative 5:50

8M ago5:50

5:50

Tune in to our latest Work Matters interview presented by Kentucky Career Center - Lincoln Trail, where we delve into a crucial topic: stable employment for individuals transitioning out of justice-involved situations. The state initiative, Putting Kentuckians First, is making waves in addressing this issue, and the Lebanon/Marion County Career Cen…

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91: Connect with Nature in a Disconnected World with Robyn Broudie from Roots 2 Rise 46:30

8M ago46:30

46:30

Today we have an Outdoor Classrooms Tour and Talk with Robyn Broudie from Roots to Rise. Roots 2 Rise Outdoors offers year-round nature-based exploratory programs for children ages 2 to 10 throughout Toronto, Canada and surrounding areas. Offering an alternative approach to education, they believe that by facilitating opportunities for children to …

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90: Five Steps to Grow Holistic Development, Health and Well-Being in your Outdoor Classroom 15:40

8M ago15:40

15:40

In this episode, we not only look at the steps to grow holistic development, health, and well-being in your outdoor classroom; Victoria also breaks down each step into mini-how to steps. They include: 1. Drink more water and less sugary drinks. Require children to bring water bottles 2. Watch less screen time. Send home outdoor activities for famil…

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89. Explore, Create and Play with Charlotte Ellis from Seasons: A Tour and Talk 37:32

8M ago37:32

37:32

Today we have an Outdoor Classrooms Tour and Talk with Charlotte Ellis all the way from the UK representing her program called Seasons. In this episode, we discuss, the mission of Seasons and how their programs are reconnecting people with nature to benefit holistic development, health, and well-being. In our discussion, we talk about the importanc…

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88. Plant Seeds of Wonder 13:51

8M ago13:51

13:51

In this mini-episode we explore the upcoming Exploring Nature in Spring Masterclass that will be featured inside the CIRCLE Membership community. Inspired by Episode #85 with Author Janet Fox and her book Wintergarden, in our masterclass, we explore how the world of seeds and plants cultivates wonder for children! From the tiniest sesame seeds to t…

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87. Wintergarden with Author Janet Fox 44:36

8M ago44:36

44:36

“With a little bit of love and care, a few seeds nestled in pots, and a good windowsill, there’s no better time to make an herb garden with mom than in the dead of winter. Together, a young girl and her mother can grow everything you find in a spring herb garden, from oregano to parsley and baby greens, carefully tending their plants to watch them …

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86. Growing a Forest School with Bianca Hagen from Hidden Valley Forest School 7:01

8M ago7:01

7:01

In this episode we are traveling to the Hidden Valley Forest School with CIRCLE Member, Bianca Hagen, to learn why her school is so uniquely set up to instill a lifelong love of learning in children. Bianca Hagen is sharing how her forest school is growing into a Preschool through Second Grade (with plans to include 3rd-4th grades in 2025-2026)! Hi…

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85: Lessons Learned from the Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass 7:01

8M ago7:01

7:01

“Don’t Be Pushed by your Problems. Be led by Your Dreams.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson In this episode, Victoria shares reflections and lessons learned from the 2024 Exploring Nature Winter Masterclass. The mindset shifts around spending time outdoors during the cold-weather months are always refreshing and rejuvenating. Come listen to what teachers lear…

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84. Eight Ways to use Technology in Nature? 10:36

8M ago10:36

10:36

Children need direct exposure to nature. In today's episode, we are answering the question," Can we use technology to enhance direct exposure to the natural world given children's increased access to screens and statistics around technology use? The answer is yes, and in this episode, we are sharing ten user-friendly tools that can enhance your chi…

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83: Delivering Technology to Assess and Promote Nature Exposure with Jared Hanley from Nature Quant 25:39

9M ago25:39

25:39

What if you had a personalized nature prescription in the form of a mobile app? In this episode, we are talking with Jared Hanley and learning the Nature Quant story. We discuss the importance of quantifying time in nature to help us in making decisions about our communities. We tap into the research his company has done around how the brain and na…

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82. Love is Everywhere! Let's Find Hearts in Nature 6:49

9M ago6:49

6:49

When a heart is found in nature, you might feel an overwhelming sensation of love and wonder. In this episode, we are pondering the following question on our quest to find balance in our outdoor classroom. What is the meaning behind seeing hearts in nature? Can you create a balanced and inspired outdoor classroom environment by observing nature? Ca…

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81: Outside the Classroom Walls with Heather Bishop 33:38

9M ago33:38

33:38

How can parents encourage outdoor play? In today’s episode, we have Heather Bishop sharing her perspectives of Outdoor Classrooms as both a parent and educator. Heather shares her journey as a teacher, raising two boys outdoors, her family stories from the Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom, and how she has taken lessons learned from an outdoor class…

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