Upcoming events

Switch to Calendar View

• Wilderness First Aid & CPR

  • When
    Sunday, August 17, 2025
  •  
    9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Location
    Annapolis Maritime Museum 7300 Edgewood Rd.

  
  

  Our partners at the Institute for WildMed are experts when it comes to responding to emergencies. That's why we've teamed up to offer this 16-clock hour, hybrid version of Wilderness First Aid & CPR certification to help you prepare for an outdoor emergency.

  HYBRID COURSE FORMAT
  

  • The first 8 clock hours of the course is asynchronous, which means you can move through online content at your own pace. The online training must be completed prior to attending the second half of the course, held in person. 
    Your confirmation email from WildMed will contain a link to the asynchronous, online portion of the training. You can get started right away!
  • The last 8 clock hours of the course will be held in person at the Annapolis Maritime Museum. You must complete the entire 16 clock hours to receive Wilderness First Aid & CPR certification.

  WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

  This course is designed for anyone who leads nature-based education and outdoor learning, which may include: teachers and administrators in preschool, childcare, or elementary school settings; naturalists, environmental educators, or outdoor educators; wilderness survival enthusiasts; and parents.

  
  

  ABOUT THE PRESENTER

  Nicole Roma Thurrell has degrees in Psychology and Recreation Therapy from the University of North Carolina. She has been an EMT since 2001. She worked in many aspects of wilderness therapy for nearly a decade - expedition leader, health director, director of admissions. In addition to the roles listed above, she has been an adventure racer, a raft guide, high ropes facilitator, a clinician for kids with Autism, a Waldorf high school teacher, and a mom. She is a passionate educator who loves turning people on to strategies for being more confident and comfortable in nature. She lives in a solar village in Greenfield, MA.

  Show details
• Outdoor Teachers Read Series

  • Start
    Monday, August 18, 2025
  •  
  • End
    Monday, November 17, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    4 sessions
  • Location
    Online!

  Register

  
  This four-part series features authors of Nature-Based Books to bring into your classroom! Each week meet a new author, experience their book read aloud, and hear how it can be used for activities within the classroom. Attend live and you will be apart of a drawing to win a free copy of the book featured that week! The book talks will meet on August 18th, September 22nd, October 27th, and November 17th. Read on for detailed descriptions of each session! 

  A four (4) clock-hour certificate of completion will be issued at the conclusion of the course to any participants who attend all three sessions live. Check with your department of education to confirm if this course can be used toward continuing education hours in your state! 

  SESSION DESCRIPTIONS

  “I Love Nature School!” with Kyla Saphir

  Monday, August 18th from 7-8 PM (EST) [1hr]

  The shelves are full of "Back to School" books that take place in a traditional brick-and-mortar classroom, but what do you read to help transition your child into the new school year when their classroom is the great outdoors? Enter nature-educator and author, Kyla Saphir, with her book "I Love Nature School!" to provide a solution to this exact dilemma!

  Join us for this webinar in which you will enjoy an exclusive interview with the author about how her experience as a nature educator inspired the book, get practical advice for helping children navigate start of the school year jitters, hear a read-aloud of "I Love Nature School!", engage in an open Q&A, and even have the opportunity to win a free*, signed copy of "I Love Nature School" for your own home or classroom library!

  “Me and My Sit Spot” with Lauren MacLean

  Monday, September 22nd from 7-8 PM (EST) [1hr]
  

  Join author and educator Lauren MacLean for an engaging online webinar: Me and My Sit Spot. In this author talk, Lauren will read her book and share the story behind it, highlighting the importance of Sit Spots in fostering self-regulation, inclusion, and social-emotional learning. She’ll offer practical strategies for introducing and scaffolding Sit Spots in the classroom, with a focus on comfort, respect, and accessibility for all learners. The session will also explore how to weave curriculum connections and nature journaling into outdoor routines, helping students build deeper relationships with nature and with themselves.

  “Inside of Me” with Jen Comeau

  Monday, October 27th from 7-8 PM (EST) [1 hr]
  

  Jennifer Comeau leads an interactive presentation that highlights the awe, wonder, and mental health magic that happen on the inside when we go outside. Incorporating a shared song with the lyrics from "The Inside of ME" and story-reading, participants then learn how to use this book in the classroom, and ways to present the important concepts of Exploring and Watching (The Explorer, The Observer) -- how both are important when connecting with the rest of the natural world (we are nature too) and the character traits required for each.

  "Seeing Ourselves in Nature" with Jessica Fong 

  Monday, November 17th from 7PM - 8PM (EST) [1hr]

  In Seeing Ourselves in Nature, editor Jessica Fong asks how Black and Brown educators in the United States create space for predominantly Black and Brown children and families to reconnect to nature. Recognizing the scarcity of stories from people of the global majority in the predominately white literature surrounding nature education in the United States, Fong sought out thirteen other educators of color to share their rich and profound experiences with young children in nature. Sharing these stories is a first step in the long road to making nature education equitable for all children.

  Featuring chapters by:

  • Ashley Brailsford, Nashville, TN
  • Kameeka Shirley, Dade City, FL
  • Lotus Chaney, Atlanta, GA
  • Ron Grady, New Orleans, LA
  • Vanessa Miot, Atlanta, GA
  • Alicia Garcia, Hillsborough, FL
  • Pilar Carmina Gonzalez, Los Angeles, CA
  • Ranita Anderson Dawkins, Durham, NC
  • Courtney Newby, Seekonk, MA
  • Deja L. Jones, Newark, NJ
  • Suzette Salmon, Chicago, IL
  • Jasmin Field, Edgewood, MD
  • Jessica Fong, Chicago, IL
  • Flor Villanueva-Winter, Chicago, IL

  **Attending authors to this webinar to be announced soon!

  
  

  WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
  This course is ideal for anyone who facilitates nature-based education and outdoor learning, which may include: teachers and administrators in preschool, childcare, or elementary school settings; naturalists, environmental educators, or outdoor educators; wilderness survival enthusiasts; and parents.

  MEET YOUR PRESENTERS

  
  

  Author of "I Love Nature School!" Kyla Saphir

  Kyla Saphir is an avid nature lover, early childhood educator, yoga instructor, and postpartum doula. This is her second children’s book after On Brighter Days. She lives with her husband, daughter, and their crazy dog in Milwaukee, WI. When not busy writing children’s books, Kyla loves to travel the world with her family, ride her bike, and splash in Lake Michigan.

  
  

  
  

  Author of "Me and My Sit Spot" - Lauren MacLean

  Lauren MacLean is a primary teacher, author, and outdoor learning consultant. Her books—Me and My Sit Spot, Finding Common Ground, Risky Play Gone Away, and Sitting With Nature—celebrate curiosity, inclusion, and play in nature. She hosts the Teach Outdoors podcast, sharing practical tips and ideas to help educators take learning outside, build confidence, and inspire connection, wonder, and stewardship in children and adults.

  
  

  
  

  Author of "Inside of Me" - Jennifer Comeau

  Jennifer Comeau inspires humans to restore our sacred partnership with the rest of the natural world. Her Nautilus Gold-winning children’s book, “The Inside of ME” is a profound reminder of the magic that happens on the inside when we go outside. Her debut novel, A Moon in All Things, has been called “atmospheric and beguiling” by Kirkus Reviews, and her poems and essays are published in four anthologies. She has produced two albums of original music available on all streaming platforms. This former engineer now partners with OzGREEN, an award-winning non-profit bringing YOUth LEADing The World programs to Australia, Africa, and India. She resides in Kennebunkport, Maine, where she holds climate buoyancy workshops, hosts sacred circles, and runs a Wild Wonder Forest Bathing business.

  
  

  *If you are unable to make a session, don't worry! We will record each session to share with all registered individuals. 

  Show details
• Fall Nature-Based Teacher Certification (online)

  • Start
    Tuesday, September 23, 2025
  •  
    7:00 PM
  • End
    Thursday, October 30, 2025
  •  
    9:00 PM
  • Location
    Online!

  Register

  We are thrilled to offer our Nature-Based Teacher Certification as an online option! You will gain a deeper understanding of nature pedagogy and practices as you earn this introductory credential. To date, we have certified more than one thousand teachers from all 50 states and 25 countries, each gaining strategies and tools for unique nature-based settings. Now it's your turn!

  Our 36-hour course provides in-depth study of best practices in nature-based early childhood education to prepare you for meaningful outdoor learning experiences. We draw from experienced educators with diverse perspectives to help you hone your own approaches to nature-based ECE. Whether you are in a formal school or childcare setting or working in a nature or forest preschool, this course is designed to meet the needs of early childhood educators working in any setting. 
  
  SCHEDULE
  Tuesdays/Wednesdays: Facilitated discussions on key topics
  Thursdays: Cohort meetings and/or Guest Presenters

  Course meets live from 4PM - 6PM (PST)/ 6PM - 8PM (CST)/ 7PM - 9PM (EST) on Mondays and Wednesdays with additional time built in for on-demand content. Thursdays are reserved for guest presenters and group meeting support. There are a total of six consecutive weeks of online sessions with presenters and within small cohorts. Additional clock hours include a variety of presenters and one-on-one Mentor Meetings. Flexible, self-directed learning will take place centered on outdoor skills and experiences, which you must provide documentation of.  Upon registration, we will provide you with a complete list of materials needed for the course.

  We are delighted to share this course with our international friends and those who cannot travel for training at this time. Please take a look at this FAQ page and feel free to email programs@anbe.org with questions!

  Show details
• Montana Outdoor Teacher Retreat

  • Start
    Friday, October 03, 2025
  •  
    6:30 PM
  • End
    Saturday, October 04, 2025
  •  
    4:00 PM
  • Location
    2668 Broadwater Ave. Helena, MT 59601

  Register

  
  

  As the leaves fall and the air turns crisp, we turn again to the natural world to learn, reflect, and be rejuvenated. Dive into the wonder of the shifting seasons through our Outdoor Teacher Retreat, hosted by Green Earth Montessori! This special event brings together experts in the field of nature-based early learning to share ideas and practices with a variety of hands-on sessions to choose from. 

  
  

  Friday will feature a gentle start to the retreat with sunset forest bathing and a campfire networking opportunity. On Saturday we will dive into a full day of nature-based workshops sure to inspire! 
  

  
  

  Pending Montana State Continuing Education clock hours. ANBE will provide a professional development certificate at the conclusion of the event. Please dress for the weather, as most of this training takes place outdoors, rain or shine. Coffee/tea with lite breakfast and lunch is included, but remember your canteen for drinks throughout the day. 

  
  

  Note: We strive for zero waste during our events; please bring your canteen for drinks.

  
  

  Who Should Attend?

  This training is ideal for educators, caregivers, and others working with young children ages 2 to 8. Our participants work in all kinds of settings, from nature-based schools and forest kindergartens to public schools, traditional preschools, HeadStart programs, child care settings, and more.

  
  

  Lodging 

  The following locations are recommended for lodging should you be travelling from outside the area: 

  Moosecreek Campground (~15 min away)

  Canyon Ferry Lake (Several campgrounds around the lake, between 30 to 45 minute drive from town)

  Best Western Premier
  
  

  Double Tree

  Bed and Breakfast
  

  
  

  Workshop Descriptions

  
  

  Loose Parts and Provocations

  with Meghan Halsey

  Join us for an engaging session focused on nature-based education and the innovative use of loose parts! Discover how to create effective provocations that inspire exploration and creativity among students using natural materials. We’ll guide you through key steps, including identifying learning objectives, selecting appropriate loose parts, creating inviting outdoor spaces, and facilitating meaningful experiences. Learn to document and reflect on student interactions to deepen their connection to the natural world. Equip yourself with practical tools to enhance your teaching practice and ignite curiosity in your students through hands-on, nature-inspired learning!

  
  

  Traditional Native American Games

  with Mike Jetty

  Participants in this session will have an opportunity to play some traditional Native American games. For thousands of years Indigenous peoples throughout the Americas played different types of games that taught children valuable lifelong skills and lessons. These games have been revitalized and now students across Montana have the opportunity to experience and play tribal specific games - they get to have fun and learn about tribal traditions at the same time.

  
  

  The Essential Practice of Risky Play

  with Jennifer Walker

  Discover how to support children’s development through the exciting and essential practice of risky play, whether you’re a seasoned outdoor educator or new to the field. This session welcomes all perspectives, offering practical strategies to balance safety with exploration, empowering children to build resilience, creativity, and confidence. Learn how to distinguish risks from hazards, adapt activities for diverse needs, and facilitate meaningful outdoor experiences for every child. Whether you’re confident or cautious about risky play, this session will provide tools and inspiration to enhance your outdoor education practice.
  

  
  

  Forest Bathing

  with Deborah Goslin

  Experience and learn how Forest Bathing can be a valuable tool for stress release and boosting the immune system. By moving very slowly in the forest with all the senses open, this this evidence-based wellness practice can ease anxiety and improve sense of well-being in all ages. Also called Forest Therapy or Shinrin-yoku as its called in Japan, meaning "taking in the forest atmosphere".
  

  
  

  
  

  Meet Your Presenters!

  
  

  Mike Jetty - Indian Education Specialist

  Mike Jetty is an enrolled member of the Spirit Lake Dakota Nation and a Turtle Mountain Chippewa descendant. Mike currently works at the Montana Office of Public Instruction as an Indian Education Specialist. He has been working with Indian Education issues for the past 32 years and has teaching experience at both the K-12 and University levels. He has a B.S. in History Education, a Master’s in School Administration.

  
  

  Jennifer Walker - Lead Teacher Catkins Nature School

  As an Outdoor Educator and Master Naturalist, Jennifer has a deep appreciation for the natural world and feel a sense of serenity and connection when immersed in the magic of the outdoors. She loves to share her thirst for adventure, whether it be hiking through forests, camping under the stars, or relaxing by the fire in her own backyard. She considers spending days outside with young wonder-filled learners a true privilege.

  
  

  
  

  Meghan Halsey - Education Specialist with the Association for Nature-Based Education

  Meghan brings seventeen years of rich experience in the NBE field. With a strong focus on progressive practices, Meghan dedicated twelve years to fostering a project-style forest school environment. Her educational philosophy centers on meeting students where they are, nurturing their natural curiosity, and amplifying their voices to cultivate a sense of agency and ownership over their learning experiences. Meghan is deeply committed to promoting nature-based learning and actively works to raise awareness within her community. By collaborating with local organizations that share her vision, she continues to advocate for educational practices that connect students with the natural world, enriching their learning experiences and fostering a lifelong love of learning.

  
  

  
  

  Deborah Goslin - NatureSpeake Forest Therapy LLC

  After a career in field botany and ornithology, I wanted a deeper connection with nature. When I heard about forest bathing my whole body said YES and I took the 9 month certification program and felt I had found my purpose. In retirement my passion is helping people reconnect with nature for wellness.
  

  
  

  Show details
• Night for Nature: An Autumn Benefit for ANBE

  • When
    Friday, October 17, 2025
  •  
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Boordy Vineyards, Hydes, MD

  Register

  Join us for our 2nd annual fall fundraiser, Night For Nature. Held at local vintner Boordy Vineyards just outside Baltimore, MD, this festive evening includes live music, bespoke foraged fare, and opportunities for giving in support of nature-based education. 

  This is a dressy casual event. Bring a friend and savor a beautiful autumn evening that benefits the Association for Nature-Based Education (ANBE). 

  Show details
• Michigan Outdoor Teacher Retreat

  • When
    Saturday, October 18, 2025
  •  
    8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
  • Location
    Boardman Nature Center 1450 Cass Rd, #B Traverse City, MI 49685

  Register

  
  

  As the leaves fall and the air turns crisp, we turn again to the natural world to learn, reflect, and be rejuvenated. Dive into the wonder of the shifting seasons through our Outdoor Teacher Retreat, hosted by Grand Traverse Conservation District! This special event brings together experts in the field of nature-based early learning to share ideas and practices with a variety of hands-on sessions to choose from. 

  
  

  On Saturday we will dive into a full day of nature-based workshops sure to inspire! 
  

  
  

  Pending Michigan State Continuing Education clock hours. ANBE will provide a professional development certificate at the conclusion of the event. Please dress for the weather, as most of this training takes place outdoors, rain or shine. Coffee/tea with lite breakfast and lunch is included, but remember your canteen for drinks throughout the day. 

  
  

  Note: We strive for zero waste during our events; please bring your canteen for drinks.

  
  

  Who Should Attend?

  This training is ideal for educators, caregivers, and others working with young children ages 2 to 8. Our participants work in all kinds of settings, from nature-based schools and forest kindergartens to public schools, traditional preschools, HeadStart programs, child care settings, and more.

  
  

  Lodging 

  The following locations are recommended for lodging should you be travelling from outside the area: 

  • Courtyard Traverse City (2.2 miles away) 
  • Baymont (1.9 miles away) 
  • Tru by Hilton (3.3 miles away) 
  • Fairfield Inn and Suites (3.3 miles away)

  
  

  Workshop Descriptions

  
  

  Learning Through the Seasons

  With Alexa Cherup of  Teddy Bear Daycare

  Join us for an inspiring training session designed for educators and caregivers who are eager to harness the beauty of the natural world in their teaching. Dive into the transformative benefits of nature-based education and learn how to use the changing seasons to ignite curiosity, foster resilience, and strengthen children's connection to their environment.

  Each season—from the reflective hues of fall to the quiet stillness of winter, the vibrant renewal of spring, and the lively energy of summer—offers its own unique learning experiences. You'll leave this workshop equipped with practical tools, creative seasonal activity ideas, and the confidence to seamlessly integrate nature into your teaching throughout the year.

  Embrace the wonders of nature and enrich your educational practice!

  Compost Petting Zoo Tour

  With SEEDS Ecology & Education Centers

  Attendees will explore a fascinating installation of compost exhibits at the Compost Petting Zoo located within the SEEDS Farm at Historic Barns Park. Participants will be introduced to effective composting practices that can be implemented in schools and educational centers. You'll receive valuable insights on how to integrate composting into your curriculum and gain a deeper understanding of the circular nature of the zoo, along with its connections to the various community partnerships that SEEDS has cultivated. Join us for an engaging experience that combines hands-on learning with community collaboration!

  
  

  Site Tour of Boardman River Nature Center

  With Grand Traverse Conservation District

  Join us for an engaging guided tour of the Boardman River Nature Center! This workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area while learning about the vital conservation efforts aimed at protecting the Boardman River ecosystem. Our knowledgeable guides will share insights into the river's history and its importance to the community, as well as highlight the educational programs available at the Nature Center. Whether you're an educator, a nature lover, or simply curious about the local environment, this tour promises to inspire and deepen your connection to nature!

  
  

  Cultivating Connections: Sharing Ideas and Building Networks

  With Meghan Halsey - Education Specialist for The Association of Nature Based Education

  Join us for an engaging and interactive session designed to foster collaboration and idea-sharing among educators passionate about outdoor learning and nature-based education. Participants will share successful strategies, lesson plans, and activities that incorporate outdoor learning, providing inspiration and practical resources for all attendees. Participants will also build meaningful connections with educators from diverse backgrounds, creating a supportive community dedicated to outdoor education and engaging in group discussions to tackle common challenges faced in implementing outdoor education, brainstorming solutions, and support systems together.

  
  

  Show details
• Oklahoma Outdoor Teacher Retreat

  • When
    Saturday, November 01, 2025
  •  
    8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    Prairiewood Forest School, Coyle, Oklahoma

  Register

  Join us in Coyle, Oklahoma for an engaging day of nature-based training. This retreat brings together experts in the field of nature-based early learning to share ideas and practices with a variety of interactive workshops to choose from. 

  ANBE will provide a professional development certificate at the conclusion of the event. Please dress for the weather, as most of this training takes place outdoors, rain or shine. Coffee/tea with lite breakfast and lunch is included on Saturday, but remember your canteen for drinks throughout the day. 

  Note: We strive for zero waste during our training events; please bring your canteen for drinks.

  Who Should Attend?

  This training is ideal for educators, caregivers, and others working with young children ages 2 to 8. Our participants work in all kinds of settings, from nature-based schools and forest kindergartens to public schools, traditional preschools, HeadStart programs, child care settings, and more.

  Workshop Descriptions

  Prairiewood Forest School Site Tour

  Join us for an engaging guided tour of Prairiewood Forest School. This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area while learning about the vital conservation efforts aimed at protecting the Prairiewood Forest School ecosystem. A knowledgeable guide will share insights into the river's history and its importance to the community, as well as highlight the educational programs available at the Nature Center. Whether you're an educator, a nature lover, or simply curious about the local environment, this tour promises to inspire and deepen your connection to nature!.

  
  

  Tree Nets

  Discover the art of weaving a tree web for your outdoor space! Join us for an engaging workshop where you'll explore the fundamental techniques of tree web weaving. Gain practical experience as you collaborate with others to create and install a beautiful tree web at Prairiewood Forest School!

  
  

  Ignite Your Skills: Fire-Making Techniques

  Join us for a hands-on workshop designed for outdoor educators looking to enhance their fire-making skills. This session will cover various techniques, including the use of flint and steel, ferro rods, lighters, and magnifying lenses. The highlight will be focused practice on bowdrill fire-making using pre-made kits. Participants will engage in practical exercises, troubleshoot challenges, and collaborate with fellow educators to enhance their skills. Whether you’re new to outdoor education or a seasoned leader, this workshop will equip you with the confidence and skills to teach essential fire-making techniques to students..

  
  

  LODGING OPTIONS

  On-site Cabins, Lodge, & Tent Camping

  On-site accommodations are available for $50/person/night for fully furnished cabins, or $25/tent/night (bring your own tent; access to indoor restrooms with showers is available). A variety of beautiful cabins and lodges are spread throughout our scenic wooded property. For photos and details visit: stfrancisofthewoods.org/lodging. To book your visit call 405.466.3774 or email info@stfrancisofthewoods.org

  Cottages at Willow Pond

  Three cottages located on a lovely property just 10 miles away. See information or book your stay at https://cottagesatwillowpond.com/.

  Hotels

  The following hotels are a short 15-20 minute drive away:
  Hampton Inn & Suites
  Holiday Inn Express & Suites
  La Quinta Inn & Suites

  
  

  Show details
• Winter Nature-Based Teacher Certification (online)

  • Start
    Tuesday, January 13, 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM
  • End
    Thursday, February 19, 2026
  •  
    9:00 PM
  • Location
    Online!

  Register

  We are thrilled to offer our Nature-Based Teacher Certification as an online option! You will gain a deeper understanding of nature pedagogy and practices as you earn this introductory credential. To date, we have certified more than one thousand teachers from all 50 states and 25 countries, each gaining strategies and tools for unique nature-based settings. Now it's your turn!

  Our 36-hour course provides in-depth study of best practices in nature-based early childhood education to prepare you for meaningful outdoor learning experiences. We draw from experienced educators with diverse perspectives to help you hone your own approaches to nature-based ECE. Whether you are in a formal school or childcare setting or working in a nature or forest preschool, this course is designed to meet the needs of early childhood educators working in any setting. 
  
  SCHEDULE
  Tuesdays/Wednesdays: Facilitated discussions on key topics
  Thursdays: Cohort meetings and/or Guest Presenters

  Course meets live from 4PM - 6PM (PST)/ 6PM - 8PM (CST)/ 7PM - 9PM (EST) on Mondays and Wednesdays with additional time built in for on-demand content. Thursdays are reserved for guest presenters and group meeting support. There are a total of six consecutive weeks of online sessions with presenters and within small cohorts. Additional clock hours include a variety of presenters and one-on-one Mentor Meetings. Flexible, self-directed learning will take place centered on outdoor skills and experiences, which you must provide documentation of.  Upon registration, we will provide you with a complete list of materials needed for the course.

  We are delighted to share this course with our international friends and those who cannot travel for training at this time. Please take a look at this FAQ page and feel free to email programs@anbe.org with questions!

  Show details