Nature Explorers Camp
In this 5 day camp kids will create exploration kits and nature journals as they learn to explore and appreciate nature in their backyard or local park.
Heather Linke
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(130)
What's included
5 live meetings
4 hrs 10 mins in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. Students should spend at least 30 minutes outdoors each day in preparation for class, and complete at least one page in their nature journal and bring at least one found natural item to class each day (a photo is fine, too!)Assessment
Assessments are offered upon request.Class Experience
US Grade 1 - 4
When children have regular opportunities to experience nature they grow a better understanding and appreciation of how to healthily interact and live within the natural environment. Time spent outdoors allows them to develop their coordination, motor skills, and better assess their own abilities when taking risks - which leads to greater self confidence and self awareness. Observing and interacting with nature in gentle ways also teaches empathy and self control, and fosters a sense of wonder. In this week-long camp we will talk about how students can build their own nature explorers kit and spend time exploring in their backyard, a local park, or other natural setting. We'll learn about "sit spots" and how to be present to listen, observe, and wonder. We'll create nature journals, and learn to document our adventures outside in creative ways. Students will be encouraged to spend time outdoors each day exploring, collecting (no living creatures, please - let's leave them outdoors, where they will be happiest!), wondering, imagining, and playing. This should be a time for students to experience time outdoors as a whole person - body, mind, and spirit. When we gather together online for class each day, students will have the opportunity to share their journal entries, show items they've collected, ask questions, and practice listening and sharing in respectful ways as we discuss their explorations. Some days will include stories, poems, or songs, or a simple art project. There will be no formal "schedule" as classes will be inquiry and sharing based, and follow a model of student-lead exploration... As teacher I will be their guide - encouraging collaborative virtual exploration of each other's finds, supporting kind and caring social interactions, and fanning the flames of their creative sparks and idea sharing. To help children learn to be active and mindful observers of nature, and understanding that sometimes students are more reserved in their comfort sharing without prompts, the class will follow the following format as a means of guiding students in some of the ways we can experience nature over the course of the camp week: Monday - Making & Using Your Nature Explorers Kit What is a Nature Journal and How to Keep One Tuesday - What did you see? Clouds? A squirrel? A sprouting plant? Wednesday - What did you hear? The wind? A bird? A trickling stream? Thursday - What did you touch? A smooth stone? Mud? A fuzzy leaf? Friday - What did you smell? A flower? Fresh earth? The rain?
Learning Goals
Students will learn to share experiences, exchange ideas and stories, and take turns with kindness as they practice their communication and cooperation skills. They will learn self-awareness, improved balance and coordination, and continue to develop fine and gross motor skills. Students will practice the valuable skills of imaginative play, asking questions, decision making, and problem-solving. Students will grow in their appreciation and connection to the natural world, learning to observe and respect the things around them.
Other Details
Supply List
a nature journaling book of their choice, preferably with unlined paper. pencil colored pencils for nature drawings a couple of block crayons (or regular crayons with their paper removed) for rubbings plastic collection jar(s) - for small items These items should be readily available to the student when outdoors, and brought to camp each day. In the first class I will give *lots* of suggestions for items kids may want to collect and have as part of their "Nature Explorer Kit" - but they are optional and students may choose to have all or none of them and still participate fully in the camp!
Language of Instruction
English
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined November, 2020
4.9
130reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
I received my certification as a Master Forest Kindergarten Teacher from The Wauhatchie School/Forest School Teacher Institute, and have taught in the fields of Forest Kindergarten, nature schools, and outdoor education for over 20 years.
As a teacher, I greatly value listening to children and giving them gentle guidance and a warm and encouraging space to follow their interests and try new things.
I believe that every child can and should be able to experience the wholistic benefits of the Forest School philosophy, regardless of their access to a traditional program... and I hope this class will allow us to bring the wonder and joy of nature to your child, wherever you may be, and however you are able to bring them outdoors. Reviews
Live Group Course
$100
for 5 classes5x per week, 1 week
50 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 7-12
3-10 learners per class
