In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Lea Ann Christenson and Jenny James, coauthors of Dig In: Outdoor STEM Learning for Young Children. Together, they make the case that outdoor education isn't a luxury—it's a necessity.

Lea Ann and Jenny share how nature-based learning supports whole-child development, fosters deeper engagement, and offers rich, differentiated opportunities for every type of learner. Drawing on their own experiences as an early childhood professor and a preschool director, they describe the inspiration behind their book, the research that grounds it, and the practical steps educators can take to create vibrant outdoor classrooms.

You’ll hear how their journey—from pandemic-era innovation to a fully developed outdoor curriculum—has transformed how they think about teaching and learning. Along the way, they challenge the traditional view of what school “should” look like and offer a compelling vision for how nature-rich environments nurture curiosity, problem-solving, and joy.

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Early Childhood Chapters, we welcome Dr. Rachel Larimore, an expert in nature-based early childhood education. Dr. Larimore shares her insights on why outdoor learning is essential for young children, how educators and caregivers can integrate nature into daily routines, and the long-term benefits of connecting children with the natural world.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The definition of nature-based early childhood education and how it differs from traditional approaches.

• The benefits of outdoor learning, including cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development.

• Practical ways to incorporate nature into early childhood settings, even in urban environments.

• Overcoming challenges such as weather concerns, safety considerations, and administrative buy-in.

• The role of play in outdoor learning and how educators can facilitate meaningful experiences.

• How parents and caregivers can support nature-based learning at home.

In this episode of Early Childhood Chapters, we welcome Dr. Angela Searcy for a deep dive into navigating difficult conversations in early childhood education. Following her recent EdWeb webinar, Pushing Past Conflicts With Adults: Navigating Uncomfortable Conversations in Early Childhood, Dr. Searcy joins the podcast to address lingering questions and expand on key strategies for managing challenging discussions with administrators, colleagues, and parents.

✔️ How to communicate effectively with administrators who may not be receptive to new ideas.
✔️ The 'Buy-In' strategy for gaining support from principals, co-teachers, and staff.
✔️ Understanding emotional responses in conversations and how to navigate them productively.
✔️ Techniques for active listening and negotiation to foster collaboration.
✔️ How to create space for dialogue and ensure that your ideas are heard and considered.

🔹 B - Beware of an amygdala hijack: Recognize when stress responses may be affecting the conversation.
🔹 U - Understand the other person's perspective: Consider what concerns or barriers may be influencing their decision-making.
🔹 Y - Yield to active listening: Ask questions before offering solutions to build trust and connection.
🔹 I - Insert ideas with permission: Ask if they’re open to hearing your thoughts before presenting solutions.
🔹 N - Negotiate the ups and downs: Be flexible and open to gradual changes rather than expecting immediate agreement.

Watch Dr. Angela Searcy’s recent EdWeb webinar: Pushing Past Conflicts With Adults

Download the worksheets and PDFs attached to this presentation

Explore Dr. Searcy’s books published by Gryphon House:

• Push Past It: A Positive Approach to Challenging Classroom Behaviors Buy Here

• Elevating Equity: Advice for Navigating Challenging Conversations in Early Childhood Programs Buy Here