2008 Working Forum on Nature Education for Young Children
Over 300 early childhood educators, members of the environmental community, environmental designers, and community planners from 27 nations met in July at Arbor Day Farm, to share ongoing stories of success and new ideas for connecting children with nature. Some highlights of the three day event:
- Presentations were made by early childhood educators, environmental educators and advocates, and environmental planners and designers from around the world. Many of the presentations focused on successes that were envisioned at the 2006 Working Forum, also held at Arbor Day Farm.
- Attendees met in discussion groups to facilitate bonds between various professional fields and interests. They analyzed current trends in outdoor education, and looked for new practices to bring our children closer to nature.
- Bill Eaton and Claudia Tulip showcased a variety of natural, upbeat music.
- Attendees toured the magnificent grounds of Arbor Day Farm, participated in an outdoor barbeque, and enjoyed the international fare of Executive Chef Nick Maloney and his staff.
- The Leadership Team of the Nature Action Collaborative for Children held a business meeting to discuss new strategies for growing our commitment to children and their education in nature. Anyone interested in joining the movement to reconnect children with nature, can join the Nature Action Collaborative for Children.
The Call to Action at the 2008 Working Forum
A “Call to Action,” written by a number of leading early care professionals as a broad statement on the proven need for nature education for young children (and a statement to outline the mission we face), was presented to attendees, who have widely endorsed its content.
