Outdoor Classrooms: Nature-Based Teaching and Learning for Educators and Parents

Victoria Hackett, M.Ed: Learning Gardens and Nature Based Curriculum
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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. 2d ago

    208: The Life We Model: What Children Learn from the Way We Live

    Episode 208: The Life We Model: What Children Learn from the Way We Live As outdoor educators, we spend a great deal of time thinking about what children need—but how often do we pause to consider what they are learning simply by watching us? In this reflective episode, I explore the quiet lessons we teach through the way we live. As I prepare for an upcoming hut-to-hut trek through the Swedish Highlands and put the finishing touches on my new book, Outdoor Classrooms Unlocked, I've been thinking about growth, discomfort, curiosity, and the importance of continuing to learn throughout our lives. Children notice far more than our lesson plans. They watch how we respond to challenges, whether we embrace new experiences, and how we connect with the natural world. The life we model may be one of the most powerful forms of teaching we offer. In This Episode You'll Discover:Why children learn as much from our actions as our words.How lifelong curiosity shapes the educators we become.The difference between observing life and fully participating in it.Why stepping outside our comfort zone helps us grow alongside the children we teach.How outdoor classrooms invite both children and adults to reconnect with nature, wonder, and themselves. Key TakeawayThe most meaningful lessons we teach often happen without saying a word. When we choose curiosity, embrace challenge, and remain connected to the natural world, we show children what a life of lifelong learning and wonder can look like. Connect with Victoria: Resources & Links🌿 Outdoor Classrooms: https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.comInstagramFacebook 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 Circle Membership Community Sponsorship Opportunities:If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and rate or comment on Spotify. Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators! If this episode resonated with you, I'd be grateful if you left a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps more educators, parents, and caregivers discover the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast and continue building meaningful connections with children through nature.

  2. Jul 14

    207: Beyond Forest School: Trusting Children, Nature & Ourselves with Mel Merchand

    What happens when we trust children, trust nature, and trust ourselves enough to do education differently? In this episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, Victoria Hackett sits down with Mel Merchand, founder of Oro-Medonte Forest School, to explore what it really takes to build a thriving forest school and nature-based learning community. Going beyond the basics, Mel shares the behind-the-scenes realities of leading a forest school—from mentoring educators and building a strong culture to partnering with families, embracing thoughtful risk, and continually evolving as a nature-based educator. In this episode, we discuss: What most people misunderstand about forest schoolsThe behind-the-scenes work that creates meaningful outdoor learningHiring and mentoring exceptional forest school educatorsHelping families embrace child-led learning and risky playHow nature continues to shape Mel's own journey as an educatorThe future of forest schools and outdoor education Whether you're just beginning your outdoor teaching journey or have been leading outdoor classrooms for years, this conversation will inspire you to think more deeply about what it means to trust children, trust nature, and grow alongside both. Learn more about Oro-Medonte Forest School: https://oromedonteforestschool.ca Explore professional development, certification, workshops, and the CIRCLE Membership at: https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, leave a review, and share it with another educator who believes children thrive when they learn in nature. Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria:Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Sponsorship Opportunities:If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and rate or comment on Spotify. Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

  3. Jul 7

    206: Nature According to Children: Voices from the Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom

    Nature According to Children: Voices from the Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom What do children really think about nature? In this special episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, we turn the microphone over to the children of Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom. Through a series of mini-interviews, children share their thoughts about being outdoors, their favorite nature experiences, and what they love most about learning and playing in natural spaces. Their answers are heartfelt, humorous, insightful, and often surprising. From discovering insects and building forts to making friends and finding peaceful places to explore, these young voices remind us why nature matters. As educators, parents, and caregivers, we often talk about what children need. In this episode, we simply listen. Join host Victoria Hackett as she shares these authentic conversations and invites us to see the natural world through the eyes of a child. In This Episode:What children enjoy most about being outdoorsFavorite activities in natureHow outdoor play sparks curiosity and imaginationChildren's perspectives on learning beyond classroom wallsThe simple joys and wonders that nature provides Key Takeaway:When we take the time to listen, children remind us that nature offers more than learning opportunities—it provides wonder, freedom, connection, and joy. Connect with Outdoor Classrooms:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with educators, parents, and anyone passionate about helping children thrive through nature-based learning. Learn more about Outdoor Classrooms and Victoria Hackett at Outdoor Classrooms Follow the Podcast:Subscribe for weekly conversations, practical ideas, and inspiration to help children learn, grow, and thrive outdoors. 🌿 Connect with Victoria:For more conversations about outdoor learning, nature-based education, and raising connected, curious children, subscribe to The Outdoor Classrooms Podcast and share this episode with a fellow educator. Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 Circle Membership Community Sponsorship Opportunities:If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and rate or comment on Spotify. Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

  4. Jun 30

    205: Nature, Neuroscience & Meaning: What We’re Learning About Connection, Awe & the Developing Brain

    Episode # 205: Nature, Neuroscience & Meaning: What We’re Learning About Connection, Awe & the Developing Brain In this episode, I explore the connection between nature, neuroscience, and meaning-making in early childhood education. Inspired by Dr. Lisa Miller’s work, I reflect on what research is beginning to show about how nature supports regulation, attention, and a sense of connection—without drifting into “woo woo,” but staying grounded in science and classroom practice. In this episode, you will learn... ...how nature impacts the developing brain through stress regulation and attention systems....what neuroscience says about calm, focus, and emotional regulation in outdoor environments....how emerging research connects nature experiences to meaning-making and resilience....how Dr. Lisa Miller’s work informs our understanding of connection and awareness....how educators can stay grounded in science while honoring moments of awe and connection in nature. Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria:Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Sponsorship Opportunities:If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and rate or comment on Spotify. Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

  5. Jun 23

    204: Nature in the Classroom with Ernesto Rodriguez: Creating Calmer, More Focused Learning Spaces

    Nature in the Classroom with Ernesto Rodriguez: Creating Calmer, More Focused Learning SpacesWhat if supporting children's focus, well-being, and learning could begin with the spaces where they spend their day? In this episode, Victoria Hackett sits down with Ernesto Rodriguez, founder of Nature in the Classroom, to explore how nature-inspired learning environments can help children feel calmer, more engaged, and better able to learn. Drawing on his background in school psychology, photography, and environmental education, Ernesto shares the story behind his innovative work bringing tree canopy imagery into schools and classrooms. Together, they discuss the science behind our connection to nature, the role of biophilic design in education, and why creating restorative learning environments matters now more than ever. Whether you're a classroom teacher, outdoor educator, school leader, or parent, this conversation offers practical ideas and fresh inspiration for bringing more nature into children's daily lives. In This Episode:The story behind Nature in the ClassroomWhy our brains respond so strongly to natureThe research connecting nature and attentionHow classroom environments influence learning and behaviorWhat teachers and students experience after nature-inspired transformationsThe relationship between indoor environments and outdoor learningSimple ways educators can bring more nature into their classroomsWhy nature connection is essential for children's well-being About Ernesto Rodriguez:Ernesto Rodriguez is the founder of Nature in the Classroom, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing the benefits of nature into schools through immersive tree canopy installations and nature-inspired learning environments. His work combines school psychology, photography, and environmental education to help create spaces where children can thrive. Resources:Nature in the Classroom Facebook Instagram Contact Ernesto Connect with Victoria:For more conversations about outdoor learning, nature-based education, and raising connected, curious children, subscribe to The Outdoor Classrooms Podcast and share this episode with a fellow educator. Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Sponsorship Opportunities:If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and rate or comment on Spotify. Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

  6. Jun 16

    203: Summer Outdoor Classroom Ideas Across Four Teaching Gardens

    Episode 203: Summer Outdoor Classroom Ideas Across Four Teaching Gardens Summer brings a powerful shift in the outdoor classroom—but many educators find themselves wondering how to move beyond maintenance into intentional, meaningful outdoor learning. In this episode, we explore how to reimagine your outdoor classroom for summer through four “teaching gardens” that support curiosity, exploration, and nature-based learning. Rather than treating the outdoor space as one general area, this episode introduces a framework for designing outdoor environments that reflect the richness of the summer season. We explore four teaching garden lenses: 🌿 Gardens that Feed 🐝 Gardens that Attract Wildlife 🎨 Gardens for Art and Beauty 🔍 Gardens as Outdoor Learning Stations Each one offers a different way to support observation, inquiry, creativity, and connection with the natural world. This episode invites educators to shift their thinking—from managing outdoor spaces to designing living systems that inspire learning. In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why summer outdoor learning often feels less structured for educatorsHow to move from maintaining a garden to designing teaching gardensFour ways to structure meaningful outdoor learning in summerHow nature becomes a co-teacher in your outdoor classroomWhy small shifts in design can create powerful learning opportunities Mentioned in This Episode🌿 Exploring Nature in Summer Masterclass 📅 Opens June 19 A 4-week hybrid experience for educators focused on seasonal outdoor learning: Week 1: Gardens That Feed in Summer Week 2: Gardens That Attract Wildlife in Summer Week 3: Gardens for Art and Beauty in Summer Week 4: Gardens as Outdoor Learning Stations in Summer Reflection QuestionWhat would change in your outdoor classroom if it was designed for curiosity instead of maintenance? Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Sponsorship Opportunities:If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and rate or comment on Spotify. Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

  7. Jun 9

    202: From Mud Kitchens to College Graduation: Outdoor Learning, Childhood & the Growth We Don’t Always See

    From Mud Kitchens to College GraduationOutdoor Learning, Childhood & the Growth We Don’t Always See This episode connects a deeply personal moment—watching a son graduate from Cornell University—with reflections on childhood, parenting, and the long arc of development. From mud kitchens to outdoor classrooms, it explores how children grow in ways that are often invisible in the moment—but undeniable over time. In This EpisodeWhy the most important learning is often invisible while it’s happeningHow outdoor play builds resilience, curiosity, and problem-solvingThe connection between early childhood experiences and later life skillsWhy mud kitchens and loose parts are far more than “just play”How outdoor learning shapes both children and the adults who guide them Key IdeaChildhood is not a checklist of achievements—it is a long, unfolding process of becoming. And outdoor learning asks us to trust what we cannot yet measure. Episode Takeaway:From mud kitchens to college graduation - growth is always happening, even when we cannot see it yet. Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria:Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and rate or comment on Spotify. Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

  8. Jun 2

    201: Turn Back Time with Lisa Burris: Reclaiming Childhood Through Outdoor Learning

    Episode #201: Turn Back Time with Lisa Burris: Reclaiming Childhood Through Outdoor Learning What happens when children are given time, space, and freedom to connect deeply with nature? In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Lisa Burris, founder of Turn Back Time, to explore the transformative power of outdoor learning, connection, and childhood wonder. Lisa shares the story behind Turn Back Time and how her work has created meaningful experiences for children and families through nature-based education, farm experiences, and relationship-centered learning. Together, we discuss what children truly need to thrive, the importance of unstructured outdoor play, and how nature helps children build confidence, resilience, and belonging. This conversation is a beautiful reminder that childhood was never meant to happen only indoors. In This Episode, We Explore:The story behind Turn Back TimeWhy nature-based learning matters now more than everSupporting children through connection and outdoor experiencesThe role of risk, wonder, and freedom in childhoodHow outdoor learning transforms both children and educatorsThe healing power of slowing down and reconnecting with natureWhat gives Lisa hope for the future of education Whether you are a parent, educator, or advocate for children, this episode will leave you inspired to see outdoor learning in a whole new way. Connect & Learn More from Turn Back Timewww.tbtinc.org www.facebook.com/turnbacktimeinc Instagram: @tbtfarm Call to ActionIf this episode inspired you, share it with an educator, parent, or friend who believes in the power of childhood, nature, and connection. 🔗 Connect with Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 ⭐️ Enjoying the podcast?Follow, rate, and review to help others discover outdoor learning. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and rate or comment on Spotify. Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

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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.

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