Role of the Educator

​The importance of the early childhood teacher’s attitude, flexibility, and competence is well documented in the research (Adams, 2013; Kemp & Josephidou, 2023; Morrissey & Wishart, 2015).

Prepared

​Since programming can happen inside, outside, and beyond, educators must be prepared to address variables that come with experiences like different weather and to welcome the learning they bring. 

Flexible

​As teachers consider these variables and engage in responsive planning and decision-making, they must also take into account the unique interests and abilities of the children.  

Competent

• ​Early childhood educators oversee safety protocols but encourage children to care for their own needs and manage their own safety practices where applicable.
  
• Diverse cultural identities are valued, and peer interactions are promoted and embedded in the curriculum.
  
• Early childhood educators view conflict resolution and social-emotional skills as crucial as academic learning and equally document these skills in observations and assessments (Adams, 2013).

EXCITED

​​​Research documents the importance of the educator's excitement about nature (Larimore, 2019; Warden, 2019). 
 
Ideas to help educators get started:

• Start Small: Educators don't have to spend the whole day outside, start with small amounts of time and build up to more as educators are more comfortable.
• Share Interests: Many educators have outdoor and nature hobbies they are excited to share with others.
• Teacher Buddies: Peers can help support each other, advocacy groups and online forum can be helpful. 
• Encouragement: Keep trying! Teachers will develop skills the more they work at it. 
• Be Prepared: Teachers will feel confident the more prepared they are with proper materials, lesson plans, and safety protocols.​

Image created at canva.com.

Visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to learn more about How to Teach Outside.

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