Learning Naturally in the Winter
- Admin
- Sep 22, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 19, 2024
September 20, 2023
Winter Toolkit Updates Added November 20, 2024
Our very first CORE Training Event was a success! We had so much fun talking about all things OUTDOORS for the Winter! We're excited to extend Learning Naturally throughout the school year, even in Winter! During this training we had great discussion about conquering the challenges that come with getting outdoors in the Winter and we also talked about a TON of ideas to help get you started on implementing more outdoors learning time as the weather cools down and the snow begins to fly!
To receive 2-2.5 hours of continuing education credit, please follow the below steps...
View the Recording (~1.5 hours)
Reference /Review the Handouts and PDF of the Powerpoint
Complete the Homework Assignment and Submit to Designated Person (~0.5-1 hours)
Recording
Below is the video Zoom recording of this training. This was our very first time doing this format of both in person and Zoom together, so the audio is not perfect. We hope that you are still able to take away some valuable information from this :)
Handouts
PDF of Powerpoint
Homework
To receive credit for this training, there is a Homework assignment. Please spend ~30-60 minutes creating/planning winter experiences to use this winter! Use the lesson plan that is most applicable to the age(s) that you work with, and fill in one week + the 3 bottom boxes (Inf/Todd/Twos) or 2 days + the 4 bottom boxes of the week (JPS/PS/PreK/4K). These should be ALL OUTDOORS winter activity/experience ideas. Submit your homework to the designated person to receive a certificate of completion. When turning in your homework, please make a note of how long this assignment took you so we can give proper credit.
Infants/Toddlers/Twos - Bi Weekly Plan - Complete 1 Week + 3 Bottom Boxes
Jr. Preschool/Preschool/PreK/4K - Weekly Plan - Complete 2 Days + 4 Bottom Boxes
***2024-2025 Winter Toolkit Update***
To earn a toolkit for your classroom, please complete the following steps:
Review the Recording, Handouts, and Powerpoint Above (you do not need to complete the extra homework assignment in order to submit your toolkit request)
Review the below Winter Toolkit Information
Submit the Winter Toolkit Request Form
Winter Toolkit Information
Labeling and Storage of Toolkit Items
Each Classroom MUST label all their toolkit supplies with their classroom color tape and/or classroom name written clearly and easily visible on their materials. This way, if items go missing, we can easily find their owner and return them to their home.
Classroom toolkit materials should be stored within your classroom or classroom’s designated storage area. No materials should be left on playground or common outdoor spaces. Classrooms are responsible for the care of their own toolkit materials, including the responsibility of disposing of broken items.
Classroom Budgets:
Infants & Toddlers- $100/each
Twos & JPS- $150/each
Preschool, PreK & 4K- $200/each
SA (Winter Break)- $50/each
Ideas of Toolkit Contents
Please check the materials we already have and consider tools that you could create or make yourself first, as those are “freebies” and will not deduct from your budget for new supplies! Any materials you currently have that are not being used should be donated to another classroom (if still in good condition), disposed of in the trash (if in poor condition), or passed along to the Assistant Director for reallocation (if in good shape but not desired anymore).
Field Guides (i.e. animal tracks/scat, trees, etc.)
Sleds
Tarps / Wool Blankets
Snow Shovels
Collection Bags/Boxes
Be sure to review the ideas shared in the training as well.
Remember… QUALITY vs. quantity…. not every child needs one of everything…
Winter Toolkit Request Form
After reviewing the above information, use the below form to submit your Winter Toolkit Request.
ENJOY!
Comments