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

Victoria Hackett, M.Ed: Learning Gardens and Nature Based Curriculum
  • 5.0 (18)
  • How To
  • 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. 2d ago

    213: The Messy Middle of Your Outdoor Classroom: Permission to Start Small

    The Messy Middle of Your Outdoor Classroom: Permission to Start SmallWhat if your outdoor classroom doesn’t need to be finished—or even close to perfect—to be meaningful? In this episode, we’re talking about two permissions every outdoor educator needs: permission to start small and permission to embrace the messy middle. It’s easy to look at a beautiful, established outdoor classroom and think you need the budget, materials, master plan, and perfect space before you can begin. But meaningful outdoor classrooms rarely happen all at once. They grow one idea, one experiment, and one small step at a time. And once you start? Things get messy. Children use materials in ways you never expected. Plants die. Plans change. Carefully designed spaces get rearranged. Something you thought children would love gets ignored—while the simplest addition captures their attention for weeks. That messy middle isn’t a sign that you’re doing it wrong. It’s where the learning happens. In this episode, we explore: Why starting small is not the same as thinking smallHow to begin with what you already haveWhy your outdoor classroom doesn’t need to look like anyone else’sWhat children’s unexpected use of a space can teach usHow to view the “mess” as information instead of failureWhy outdoor classrooms should evolve alongside the children who use themHow to recognize progress that has nothing to do with how beautiful your space looksWhen to keep going, change direction, or let an idea go Whether you’re dreaming about your first outdoor classroom, taking your first few steps, or standing right in the middle wondering if any of it is working, this conversation is for you. You don’t need the whole plan to begin. Start small. Stay curious. Let it be messy. Then take the next small step. 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. Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and share this conversation with a fellow educator or parent. Your support helps more people discover the transformative power of nature-based education. 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!

  2. Aug 18

    212: Taking the Leap: What a Hut-to-Hut Trek in Sweden Taught Me About Outdoor Classrooms & Community

    Taking the Leap: What a Hut-to-Hut Trek in Sweden Taught Me About Outdoor Classrooms & Community What happens when you say yes before you feel completely ready? In this episode, I’m taking you along on my hut-to-hut trek through Sweden—and sharing the unexpected lessons I brought home about courage, Outdoor Classrooms, and community. Along the trail, I was reminded that we don't need to see the entire path before taking the first step. Whether you're trekking through Sweden or growing an Outdoor Classroom, sometimes you simply need to focus on the next hut. In this episode, we explore: Saying yes before you feel completely readyTaking your Outdoor Classroom one step at a timeLearning to embrace uncertainty and discomfortWhy who you walk with mattersHow the CIRCLE can be the community that walks alongside you So, what's your next hut? You don't need to have the whole trail mapped out—and you don't have to walk it alone. 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. Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and share this conversation with a fellow educator or parent. Your support helps more people discover the transformative power of nature-based education. 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. Aug 13

    211: Clara’s Curiosity: Foxy Friends, Nature & Wonder with Karen Belanger-Richmond

    Clara’s Curiosity: Foxy Friends, Nature & Wonder with Karen Belanger-Richmond What happens when a child’s curiosity leads her outside—and she discovers a family of foxes? In this episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, I’m joined by children’s author Karen Belanger-Richmond, author of Clara’s Curiosity & Her Foxy Friends. Karen shares the inspiration behind Clara’s story and how a real-life experience grew into a children’s book celebrating curiosity, observation, wildlife, and the simple magic of spending time outdoors. Together, we explore what can happen when children are given the time and space to slow down, notice what’s around them, ask questions, and follow their curiosity. In this episode, we talk about: The story behind Clara’s Curiosity & Her Foxy FriendsHow Karen’s family and experiences in Maine inspired her writingWhy curiosity is such a powerful starting point for outdoor learningHelping children observe and appreciate wildlife safely and respectfullyNature journaling, noticing, and asking, “What do you see?”Simple ways teachers and families can encourage children to become outdoor investigatorsWhat’s next for Clara and her adventures Whether you’re an early childhood educator, teacher, parent, grandparent, or simply someone who believes children need more opportunities to wonder outdoors, this conversation is an invitation to look a little closer at the nature right outside your door. A Special Thank YouA special thank-you to Karen Belanger-Richmond and Clara’s Curiosity & Her Foxy Friends for sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast during August, September, and October. We are grateful for Karen’s support of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast and our mission to inspire more outdoor learning, curiosity, and connection with the natural world. 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. Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and share this conversation with a fellow educator or parent. Your support helps more people discover the transformative power of nature-based education. 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. Aug 4

    210: Inside Nature Forward Nature Preschool: Carlos Duque on Curiosity, Confidence & Belonging

    Episode 210: Inside Nature Forward Nature Preschool: Carlos Duque on Curiosity, Confidence & Belonging What happens when we give children the time, space, and freedom to follow their curiosity? In this episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, Victoria Hackett sits down with Carlos Duque, Preschool Director at Nature Forward, to explore how nature-based education helps children develop confidence, empathy, resilience, and a deep sense of belonging. Drawing on his experience as a teacher, librarian, camp counselor, and school leader, Carlos shares how child-led learning comes to life in a nature preschool. Together, they discuss balancing freedom with safety, building strong relationships with families, mentoring educators, and creating learning environments where children can truly thrive. Whether you're an educator, parent, or school leader, this conversation offers practical insights and a hopeful vision for what early childhood education can become when nature is at its heart. In This Episode:Why nature-based education matters now more than everThe power of curiosity and child-led learningSupporting healthy risk-taking and resilienceBuilding confidence and belonging outdoorsPartnering with families in nature-based educationLeading a thriving nature preschoolWhat the future of outdoor learning could look like Key TakeawayWhen children are trusted to explore, wonder, and learn in nature, they develop far more than academic skills—they grow into confident, compassionate, and resilient human beings who feel deeply connected to the world around them. Connect with Nature Forward:https://natureforward.org 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. Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and share this conversation with a fellow educator or parent. Your support helps more people discover the transformative power of nature-based education. 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. Jul 28

    209: Raising Wild Little Wonderers: How Nature Shapes Curious, Confident Children with Sophie O'Borne

    Raising Wild Little Wonderers: How Nature Shapes Curious, Confident Children with Sophie O'Borne What if the greatest gift we can give children isn't another activity—but the freedom to wonder? In this episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, Victoria Hackett welcomes Sophie O'Borne, founder of Wild Little Wonderers, for a heartfelt conversation about raising children who are deeply connected to the natural world. Sophie shares the story behind Wild Little Wonderers and the experiences that inspired her work. Together, Victoria and Sophie explore how unhurried time outdoors nurtures curiosity, resilience, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning. They discuss the importance of stepping back as adults, trusting children to explore, and creating environments where wonder can flourish. Whether you're an educator, parent, caregiver, or simply someone who believes childhood should include muddy boots, open skies, and endless questions, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical ideas for bringing more nature into children's everyday lives. In This Episode:Sophie's journey to founding Wild Little WonderersWhy wonder is essential to healthy childhood developmentThe power of unstructured outdoor playHelping children develop confidence through natureSupporting curiosity without controlling the experiencePractical ways families and educators can reconnect children with the natural worldWhy slowing down creates deeper learningBuilding lifelong relationships with nature Key Takeaway:Children don't need perfect outdoor classrooms or elaborate activities to thrive. They need time, trust, and opportunities to experience the natural world for themselves. When we create space for wonder, children become more curious, capable, and deeply connected—to nature, to others, and to themselves. A Quote from This Episode:"Wonder isn't something we teach children. It's something we protect." Connect with Sophie O'Borne:📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wild_little_wonderers/ Connect with Outdoor Classrooms:🌿 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. If you enjoyed this episode...Please follow the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, and share this episode with an educator, parent, or friend who believes childhood is best experienced outdoors. Every review helps us reach more people who are passionate about reconnecting children with nature. 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! "When children are given the freedom to wonder, they discover far more than the world around them—they begin to discover who they are." 🌿

  6. Jul 21

    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.

  7. 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!

  8. 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!

See All (200)

5
out of 5
18 Ratings

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

You Might Also Like