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Training & Resources

muddy puddle teacher logo
muddy puddle teacher logo

Let’s take it outdoors!

outdoor learning research

Welcome to The Muddy Puddle Teacher

Embrace the Outdoors with Innovative Learning

At The Muddy Puddle Teacher, we believe that the world beyond the classroom walls offers endless opportunities for children to explore, learn, and grow. Founded by passionate educators, our mission is to inspire teachers and parents to take learning outdoors, fostering a love for nature while enriching educational experiences.

Our Story

The Muddy Puddle Teacher was created by Sarah Seaman, an experienced early years educator with a deep passion for outdoor learning. Sarah’s journey began when she noticed how much more engaged and enthusiastic her students were during outdoor activities compared to traditional classroom settings. This observation sparked the idea for The Muddy Puddle Teacher, aiming to provide teachers with the resources and support needed to integrate outdoor learning into their curriculum effectively.

What We Offer

Resources and Activities

Our website is a treasure trove of resources designed to make outdoor learning accessible and enjoyable. From lesson plans and activity guides to printable materials and video tutorials, we offer a wide range of tools to help educators bring their lessons to life in the great outdoors.

Community and Support

Join our vibrant community of like-minded educators who share a passion for outdoor learning. Connect through our forums, attend our webinars, and participate in our events to exchange ideas, share experiences, and gain inspiration from others who are also dedicated to making learning more adventurous and impactful.

Benefits of Outdoor Learning

Research shows that outdoor learning offers numerous benefits for children, including improved academic performance, better physical health, enhanced social skills, and increased environmental awareness. Explore some of the compelling reasons to take your classroom outside:

  1. Improved Academic Performance: Studies indicate that students who engage in outdoor learning are more motivated and focused, leading to better academic outcomes. Read More
  2. Enhanced Physical Health: Outdoor activities encourage physical movement, reducing sedentary behavior and promoting overall health. Learn More
  3. Social and Emotional Benefits: Nature-based learning can reduce stress and anxiety, improving students’ social and emotional well-being. Discover How
  4. Environmental Stewardship: Exposure to nature fosters a sense of responsibility and care for the environment, encouraging sustainable behaviors. Explore More

Get Started with Outdoor Learning

Tips for Teachers

  1. Start Small: Begin with short outdoor activities and gradually integrate more lessons outside. Practical Tips
  2. Use Local Resources: Utilize parks, gardens, and other local green spaces to enhance learning experiences. Find Local Resources
  3. Involve the Community: Collaborate with local environmental organizations to provide students with diverse learning opportunities. Partner with Organizations

Tips for Parents

  1. Encourage Exploration: Allow children to explore their natural surroundings and engage in unstructured play. Benefits of Play
  2. Create a Nature Journal: Help your child document their outdoor adventures through drawings and notes. Nature Journal Ideas

Internal Links to Explore

External Resources and Articles

  1. Outdoor Learning in Urban Settings
  2. Make Outdoor Learning Your Plan A
  3. Outdoor Learning: Benefits, Things to Consider
  4. Curriculum-based Outdoor Learning
  5. National COVID-19 Outdoor Learning Initiative
  6. NYC Urban Park Rangers
  7. Nature Friendly Schools
  8. Forest Schools
  9. Green Schools Alliance
  10. Children & Nature Network
  11. Eco-Schools
  12. Project Learning Tree
  13. The Wildlife Trusts
  14. Outdoor Classroom Day
  15. The Nature Conservancy

Join the Movement

At The Muddy Puddle Teacher, we are committed to making outdoor learning an integral part of education. Together, we can create a generation of children who are connected to nature, engaged in their learning, and equipped with the skills and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Join us on this exciting journey, and let’s make a difference, one muddy puddle at a time.