Saturday Workshop on Nature Play and Learning 4 May 2019

Learning and Development STEMs from Nature “Wonder implies the desire to learn,” wrote Aristotle. So, let’s take advantage of how our brains are wired! Outside the classroom door, the natural world opens up a child's innate sense of wonder.  We'll discuss and practice how early childhood educators can tap a child’s natural curiosity as well as model skills and attitudes that form the foundation for science “habits of mind”. Exploring your schoolyard or backyard provides a rich source of experiences and hands-on activities that allow for child-centered learning and discovery.  Through activities with readily available materials, we will practice, share, and learn how all early childhood educators can enhance time spent outdoors by integrating nature and leveraging opportunities for cognitive, social/emotional, and motor development.  Join in to experience how you can bring the benefits of nature play and learning into your early childhood program. ABOUT OUR PRESENTOR:  Kris Scopinich, M.Ed., Mass Audubon Director of Education, works with educators, directors, and scientists at Mass Audubon nature centers and wildlife sanctuaries across the state to develop and coordinate programs and curricula for a variety of audiences—preschool-aged children, families, K-12 schools, adults, and community-based organizations. Prior to stepping into her statewide role, she spent 13 years as the Education Manager for Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, where she oversaw all on- and off-site educational programs for schools, children, families, and adults as well as the Drumlin Farm Summer Camp and the Drumlin Farm Community Preschool (a nationally recognized nature and farm-based preschool). In partnership with colleagues in science education, Ms. Scopinich has developed original curricula for both formal and informal learning environments that address science education through inquiry-based learning and place-based field studies. Ms. Scopinich has a Masters of Education from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.  *This workshop includes material applicable to the needs of diverse learners and children with special needs.