Outdoor Classrooms Podcast

Victoria Hackett, M.Ed: Learning Gardens and Nature Based Curriculum
  • 5.0 (17)
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  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Outdoor Classrooms Podcast is the podcast for teachers and parents and anyone interested in cultivating learning gardens and nature-based curricula for children. It’s a show that will help you transform your outdoor space and will offer “seeds of inspiration” for playful learning outdoors. Each week, Victoria Hackett and her guests will share tips and actionable strategies that you will need in order to set in motion, manage and grow your Outdoor Classroom. You’ll learn how to implement the 5 Phases of Teaching Outdoors, all while providing a new way of learning for your children! Studies have shown that children who learn outdoors in all seasons “develop a sense of self, independence, confidence, creativity, decision-making, problem-solving skills, empathy towards others, motor skills, self-discipline, and initiative.” Victoria Hackett is the founder of Outdoor-Classrooms.com, The CIRCLE Membership community, and The Secret Gardens Demonstration Outdoor Classroom. You can follow her on Instagram and Facebook. To learn more, head on over to our virtual playground at outdoor-classrooms.com.

  1. 3D AGO

    192: Behind the Pages: The Making of My Book, Outdoor Classrooms Unlocked

    Episode 192: Behind the Pages: The Making of Outdoor Classrooms UnlockedEver wonder what it takes to bring a book to life? In this episode, I take you behind the pages of my upcoming book, Outdoor Classrooms Unlocked: The 5 Phases of Confident Outdoor Teaching Across 4 Types of Teaching Gardens. I share the full journey—from the first spark of an idea, to writing and editing the manuscript, gathering feedback from early readers, and even selecting a cover that captures the heart of teaching outdoors. Along the way, you’ll hear stories, surprises, and reflections from my experience as an outdoor educator and author. We also explore how the 5 Phases of outdoor teaching and 4 types of teaching gardens shaped the structure and vision of the book, giving insight into not just what the book is, but how it grew and evolved over time. Whether you’re an educator, aspiring author, or just curious about the creative process, this episode offers a story-driven look at the making of a book, with lessons, reflections, and inspiration for anyone bringing an idea to life. What You’ll Hear in This Episode: How the book concept came to life and evolved over timeReflections on the manuscript editing processStories and feedback from early readersThe journey of designing the book cover and illustrationsInsights from the 5 Phases and 4 Teaching Gardens frameworkLessons learned as a teacher and author Links & Resources: Join the Outdoor Classrooms Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Outdoor Classroom Resource:  🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 Mentioned in this episode: Exploring Nature in Spring Masterclass Exploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

    24 min

  2. MAR 24

    191: Finding the Openings: What Sudoku Taught Me About Teaching Outdoors

    Over the past few months, I’ve been playing a lot of Sudoku. What began as a simple puzzle quickly became something much more meaningful. As I struggled through Easy puzzles and eventually unlocked the Master level, I began to notice something fascinating: the mindset needed to solve Sudoku is remarkably similar to the mindset needed to teach outdoors. Episode 191: Finding the Openings: What Sudoku Taught Me About Teaching Outdoors In this episode of Outdoor Classroom News, I explore the surprising parallels between solving puzzles and guiding children in nature. Both require patience, curiosity, experimentation, and the willingness to keep trying even when things don’t immediately make sense. Drawing from real moments in our Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom Nature Classes, I share how children naturally approach learning the same way we approach puzzles—by noticing openings, testing ideas, and persisting through challenges. If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to bring more outdoor learning into your work with children, this episode offers a refreshing reminder: sometimes the solution appears when we shift our perspective and take the next small step. In This EpisodeHow a simple Sudoku puzzle became a lesson in mindset and persistenceWhy “looking for openings” is a powerful strategy in outdoor educationStories from Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom Nature ClassesHow experimentation and curiosity fuel children’s learning in natureWhy persistence is one of the most valuable skills children develop outdoorsHow shifting perspective can unlock new possibilities in teaching and learning Reflection QuestionsAs you listen, consider these questions: Where are the “openings” in your classroom or outdoor space right now?What small experiment could you try with children this week?When have you seen persistence lead to a breakthrough in learning? Listener ChallengeThis week, try this simple practice: Notice an opening — a child’s curiosity, a seasonal change, or a moment of wonder in nature.Experiment — follow that curiosity and see where it leads.Persist — allow time for discovery and growth. Just like solving a puzzle, meaningful learning often happens one small step at a time. Subscribe & ShareIf you enjoyed this episode of Outdoor Classroom News, be sure to subscribe and share it with a fellow educator, parent, or nature-loving friend. And remember: The next breakthrough—whether in a puzzle or an outdoor classroom—may be just one opening away. Join the Outdoor Classrooms Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Outdoor Classroom Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 Mentioned in this episode: Exploring Nature in Spring Masterclass Exploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

    26 min

  3. MAR 17

    190: Growing Wins: Celebrating Success in the Outdoor Classroom

    Growing Wins: Celebrating Success in the Outdoor ClassroomIn this episode, we explore the importance of celebrating our wins—big and small—and why pausing to acknowledge accomplishments can transform the way we approach life, learning, and growth. Drawing inspiration from outdoor classrooms, we reflect on how children celebrate curiosity, effort, and discovery, and how we can do the same in our own lives. From submitting a major project to noticing small everyday successes, celebration fuels motivation, joy, and self-confidence. Join me as we uncover practical ways to mark your achievements, connect with nature, and create intentional moments of recognition. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why celebration is essential for personal growth, resilience, and joy.Lessons from outdoor classrooms: how children naturally celebrate small successes—and what we can learn from them.Practical ways to celebrate wins, including reflection, rituals, shared joy, and connecting with nature.Fun and inspiring stories from outdoor classrooms and personal experiences.Reflection exercises to help you honor your accomplishments every day. Listener Takeaways / Reflection Prompts: Think of one win—big or small—that you haven’t fully celebrated yet. How does it feel to acknowledge it?Create a simple ritual to mark your achievements, like planting a “win seed” in your outdoor classroom or journaling a moment of pride.Share a success with someone else to amplify the joy. Quote to Inspire You: "Every plant in a garden gets sunlight, water, and attention. Every win in your life deserves the same." Celebrate with us and learn how pausing to honor progress can cultivate growth, joy, and resilience in your own life. Join the Outdoor Classrooms Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Outdoor Classroom Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 Mentioned in this episode: Exploring Nature in Spring Masterclass Exploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

    22 min

  4. MAR 10

    189: CIRCLE Roundtable Reflections: What Happens When Educators Truly Belong

    Episode 189: CIRCLE Roundtable Reflections: What Happens When Educators Truly Belong In the middle of an East Coast blizzard, our monthly CIRCLE Roundtable began. Some logged in right on time. Others arrived late. One joined after watching a tree fall on her outdoor classroom. And still… they showed up. This episode reflects on that unusual night — and what it revealed about community, commitment, and belonging. CIRCLE isn’t a masterclass. There are no slides or lessons. It’s a space for support, laughter, honest conversation, and real relationship. In this episode, we explore: What it means to show up imperfectly Why educators need spaces where they aren’t performing How storms reveal culture The quiet power of gathering — even when things feel uncertain Who are you showing up for? And who is showing up for you? 🌱 Because when we cultivate gardens, we cultivate belonging. Join the Outdoor Classrooms Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Outdoor Classroom Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 Mentioned in this episode: Exploring Nature in Spring Masterclass Exploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

    23 min

  5. MAR 3

    188: Follow the Water: Story, Survival & Science in the Outdoor Classroom with Ellen Cochrane

    Episode 188: Follow the Water: Story, Survival & Science in the Outdoor Classroom with Ellen Cochrane What happens when a true survival story becomes a doorway into science, resilience, and deep connection to the natural world? In this episode, I’m joined by Ellen Cochrane, author of Follow the Water—the gripping true story of Juliane Koepcke, a 17-year-old who survived alone in the Amazon rainforest by following the river. Ellen writes immersive nonfiction that trusts young readers—their intelligence and their emotions. Together, we explore how powerful storytelling can live inside outdoor classrooms, how science becomes real through narrative, and how stories of survival invite children to see weather, rivers, and forests as teachers. This conversation weaves literacy, nature, and courage into one beautiful thread. 🌱 A portion of proceeds supports the Panguana Foundation. Meet Ellen: Ellen Cochrane writes immersive nonfiction for young readers that trusts their intelligence and their emotions. Her debut, “Follow the Water,” tells the true story of 17-year-old Juliane Koepcke’s survival in the Amazon. It’s an adventure that reads like a thriller and teaches how science lives in the world: weather, rivers, canopy, and the choices that keep us alive. A longtime middle school teacher of English, English learners, Spanish, and Russian, Ellen brings classroom clarity and compassion to complex topics. She studied science writing at Johns Hopkins, is a certified California Naturalist, and previously wrote a syndicated column exploring the natural world. As a teen exchange student she lived in Lima, Peru, and traveled the same route into the jungle that frames Juliane’s story. Contact Ellen: www.ellencochrane.com | Facebook: @CochraneEllen | Instagram: @EllenMCochrane | TikTok: @AuthorTalk Join the Outdoor Classrooms Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Outdoor Classroom Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 Mentioned in this episode: Exploring Nature in Spring Masterclass Exploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

    32 min

  6. FEB 24

    187: From Seed to Sanctuary: Cultivating Garden-Centered Classrooms with Sara Rubens

    From Seed to Sanctuary: Cultivating Garden-Centered Classrooms with Sara Rubens What if your classroom didn’t just have a garden… but was shaped by one? In this episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, Victoria sits down with Sara Rubens, author of A Love Letter for a Garden-Centered Life, to explore how gardens can become living, breathing learning environments for children. Together, they discuss: What it truly means to live — and teach — a garden-centered lifeHow gardens support inquiry, literacy, science, and social-emotional growthCreating rhythms and rituals that connect children to the landTurning any outdoor space into a sanctuary for learning Sarah shares how tending a garden mirrors the work of educators: planting seeds, nurturing growth, trusting seasons, and believing in what is not yet visible. Whether you’re building a school garden, reimagining your outdoor classroom, or simply longing to deepen children’s connection to nature, this conversation will inspire you to see your teaching space differently. 🌱 Because when we cultivate gardens, we cultivate belonging. Join the Outdoor Classrooms Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Outdoor Classroom Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 Mentioned in this episode: Exploring Nature in Spring Masterclass Exploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

    52 min

  7. FEB 17

    186: Growing a Greener Future with CitySprouts: Pubic School Gardens for Teaching & Learning

    🌱 Episode 186: Growing a Greener Future with CitySprouts: Pubic School Gardens for Teaching & Learning In this episode, Victoria talks with Alex Frank of CitySprouts about how school gardens function as both science labs and creative spaces. Together, they explore how urban school gardens cultivate curiosity, connection, and meaningful learning experiences for students and educators alike—while growing a greener future from the ground up. 🌿 In This Episode, We Explore: Why school gardens are both a science and an art How hands-on garden learning sparks curiosity and wonder in students What makes urban school gardens powerful spaces for learning and community The role of after-school and summer programs in deepening garden-based learning How educators and gardeners build momentum together through shared practice and collaboration 🌼 Meet Alex: Alex Frank is the Senior Program Manager at CitySprouts, an urban gardening nonprofit based in Cambridge and Boston. CitySprouts’ mission is to cultivate curiosity and wonder in students through hands-on science learning in their own schoolyard gardens. Alex oversees CitySprouts’ Green Team program, a tuition-free afterschool and summer initiative that provides teens with opportunities to work learn outdoors in their own communities—building skills and experience that support future green education and career pathways. He also coordinates the Boston-Area School Gardens Conference, a professional development gathering that brings educators, gardeners, and community partners together to share best practices and strengthen the urban school garden movement. 🌼 Contact Alex: You can follow our Facebook, Instagram (@citysproutsma), and LinkedIn pages, as well as explore our website (citysprouts.org) for information, curriculum, blogposts, and more! 🌿🌿🌿 Join the Outdoor Classrooms Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Outdoor Classroom Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

    38 min

  8. FEB 10

    185: In Sync with Nature: Lessons in Rhythm, Pause, and Presence

    In Sync with Nature: Lessons in Rhythm, Pause, and Presence In this reflective episode, we explore what the natural world can teach us about staying in sync—especially for educators and caregivers who spend their days responding to the needs of others. Nature is not balanced because it avoids disruption, but because it integrates it. Through seasons, storms, rest, and regeneration, the natural world offers powerful lessons about rhythm, timing, and presence—lessons that are often easy to forget in professions built around constant giving. Recorded during a season of personal vulnerability, this episode invites listeners to look to nature as a teacher rather than a backdrop. It’s a reminder that pauses are not interruptions, and slowing down is not a failure—it’s part of how balance is restored. This conversation is for educators and caregivers who feel stretched, tender, or out of sync, and are longing to return to a rhythm that feels sustainable and true. In this episode, we explore: What nature teaches us about rhythm, seasons, and timing Why pause is an essential part of balance, not a disruption How presence helps educators and caregivers stay aligned while holding so much Living in response rather than resistance Learning to listen—when life slows us down Reflection for listeners: What might change if we trusted rhythm instead of rushing it? In this reflective episode, we explore what the natural world can teach us about staying in sync—especially for educators and caregivers who spend their days responding to the needs of others. Nature is not balanced because it avoids disruption, but because it integrates it. Through seasons, storms, rest, and regeneration, the natural world offers powerful lessons about rhythm, timing, and presence—lessons that are often easy to forget in professions built around constant giving. Recorded during a season of personal vulnerability, this episode invites listeners to look to nature as a teacher rather than a backdrop. It’s a reminder that pauses are not interruptions, and slowing down is not a failure—it’s part of how balance is restored. This conversation is for educators and caregivers who feel stretched, tender, or out of sync, and are longing to return to a rhythm that feels sustainable and true. In this episode, we explore: What nature teaches us about rhythm, seasons, and timing Why pause is an essential part of balance, not a disruption How presence helps educators and caregivers stay aligned while holding so much Living in response rather than resistance Learning to listen—when life slows us down Reflection for listeners: What might change if we trusted rhythm instead of rushing it? Join the Outdoor Classrooms Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Outdoor Classroom Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 Mentioned in this episode: Exploring Nature in Spring Masterclass Exploring Nature in Spring Masterclass (receive all 4 seasonal courses when you enroll!): https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-spring-masterclass/

    16 min
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About

The Outdoor Classrooms Podcast is the podcast for teachers and parents and anyone interested in cultivating learning gardens and nature-based curricula for children. It’s a show that will help you transform your outdoor space and will offer “seeds of inspiration” for playful learning outdoors. Each week, Victoria Hackett and her guests will share tips and actionable strategies that you will need in order to set in motion, manage and grow your Outdoor Classroom. You’ll learn how to implement the 5 Phases of Teaching Outdoors, all while providing a new way of learning for your children! Studies have shown that children who learn outdoors in all seasons “develop a sense of self, independence, confidence, creativity, decision-making, problem-solving skills, empathy towards others, motor skills, self-discipline, and initiative.” Victoria Hackett is the founder of Outdoor-Classrooms.com, The CIRCLE Membership community, and The Secret Gardens Demonstration Outdoor Classroom. You can follow her on Instagram and Facebook. To learn more, head on over to our virtual playground at outdoor-classrooms.com.

Information

  • Creator
    Victoria Hackett, M.Ed: Learning Gardens and Nature Based Curriculum
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    193
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Victoria Hackett, M.Ed: Learning Gardens and Nature Based Curriculum
  • Show Website
    Outdoor Classrooms Podcast

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