Nature-Based Early Learning Conference

The Natural Start Alliance’s annual Nature-Based Early Learning Conference brings together hundreds of new and seasoned nature-based early childhood education professionals from the U.S. and abroad. Sessions explore how to plan, implement, and advocate for nature-based early learning programs; report on new and relevant research; share best practices in teacher education; explore education policy; and examine other topics that advance the field of nature-based early learning. Through in-depth workshops, hands-on sessions, compelling conversations, and research presentations, we aim to promote safe, effective, and inclusive nature-based practices. 

This year’s conference theme is Thrive. Together we’ll explore the role of nature and education in promoting healing, addressing injustice, and helping children, families, communities, and the planet thrive. Attendees have access to 120+ sessions (live and on-demand) for a year, including the Ocean Wise workshop on Empowering Youth and Appeasing Eco-Anxiety with Active and Constructivist Climate Change Pedagogies. Hosted by our coordinator of Partnerships and Education Resources, Jessica Khoury, explore the approaches, applicability, and interconnectedness of climate change pedagogies and the overreaching objectives of environmental education, to learn to foster an empowering, meaningful, and impactful learning experience to empower youth and appease eco-anxiety. 

This session is asynchronous and will be posted on the website all year.