Welcome the Wild: Urban Nature in City Early Childhood Classrooms

• In Event: Poster Session 18
  In Poster Session: Lessons From Outdoor and Garden-Based Learning

Abstract

The importance of and value in nature play has long been observed and recognized within early childhood education (Carson, 1998/1965; Cadwell, 1997; Wilson, 1995). This paper explores the possibilities for and benefits of nature play in the urban classroom, using narrative inquiry (Chase, 2005; Richardson, 1997, 2000) as method. three specific actions educators may take to support nature explorations in the urban classroom. First, educators can adopt a Nature Mindset: a sense of comfort with nature, and getting dirty in the classroom. Second, educators can actively create opportunities for nature study, exploration, and experience through specific provocations in the classroom. Finally, educators must be willing to think outside the woods when conceptualizing and enacting nature play in the urban classroom.

Author

• Heather J. Pinedo-Burns, Teachers College, Columbia University