The Sensory Gifts and Challenges in Nature Settings

Learning Level 1: Introductory/Awareness

Intended Audience – Administrators, ECSE/General Educators, Paraeducators, Family Members, Family Educators, Psychologists, Social Workers, SLPs, OT/PTs, Early Intervention

Description – It is a well-known fact that young children learn through their senses. And a growing body of research is finding that being in nature is good for children’s growing brains. In this workshop, we’ll discuss the sensory-based gifts and challenges that being with young children in nature settings brings. We’ll explore the ways in which sensory experiences in nature settings influences behavior, problem-solving, thinking skills, social competence, and physical development. It’s OK if you are not sold on the idea of going out in nature. We’ll have some rich discussions about not only the gifts, but the challenges as well. Let’s have some fun as we consider some intriguing concepts such as why dirt is good for the body and how simply adding green spaces will help to enhance the well-being of young children and the people who care for them.

Lunch break: 1 hour beginning at 12pm

Continuing Education – This training will provide 5 contact hours for the following:

• Educator License Renewal
• CDA (Child Development Associate) credit in area(s) 2
• CE credit for SLP, SW, LCPC, PT, and OT professionals
• Gateways to Opportunity credit in area E (Org. ID# B40093, Event ID# )
• EI credit in the area of Intervention

Full attendance is required to receive a certificate.