Explore every episode of the podcast Nature-Based Educator

Feeling burned out in the classroom—even though you still love the work? In this episode, Ade shares five practical ways to reignite joy, connection, and creativity when teaching starts to feel heavy. From putting the phone down and stepping back into play, to taking your cohort beyond the fence line and introducing collaborative storytelling, these simple shifts can breathe fresh life into your days without overhauling your whole program. Whether you’re a founder, director, or teacher wearing all the hats, this episode is a reminder that burnout does not always mean it’s time to quit—sometimes it means something needs to shift. In this episode, we cover: How constant documentation may be draining your presence Why collaborative projects can reset group energy The power of changing your environment when routines feel stale How modeling restful connection impacts children and educators alike Why storytelling can transform confidence, creativity, and cohort dynamics What burnout may actually be trying to tell you as a leader If you’re in a season of depletion, this one is for you.

Running a nature- and play-based program comes with beautiful, meaningful work—but also incredibly hard, often invisible decisions. In this episode, we talk about what it really looks like to lead when things feel uncertain, emotional, and high-stakes. From questioning whether a family is the right fit mid-year, to navigating weather cancellations and running out of snow days, to holding firm to policies when your heart wants to bend—this is the side of leadership no one prepares you for. If you’ve ever found yourself second-guessing decisions, people-pleasing, or quietly holding the weight of your program alone, this episode will remind you that you’re not doing it wrong—you’re doing the real work of leadership.

If you’re dreaming about starting your own nature or play-based program—but feel overwhelmed about where to begin—you’re in the right place. Today, we’re breaking it down into three essential steps: building your support circle, navigating licensing, and securing your space. Plus, we’ll talk about the heart of it all—your why. Let’s ground your vision and get you moving, one step at a time.

Hidden under that mountain of laundry and dishes in the sink, buried within the catacombs of your to-do list - there's a message for future you. Walk with Ade as she shares how to move through seasons of overwhelm and give action steps on how to make your daily "grind" 5-10% more enjoyable. Hint: the little things are the big things. Tune into episode 24 for more details!

Nature and nutrition go together like pollinators and wildflowers. Walk with Ade as she shares her journey and discoveries in how taking a closer look at what and how she was fueling her body majorly shifted how she showed up in the space she shares with children in her forest classroom!

In this episode of The Outside The Box Podcast, we explore how optimizing energy isn’t just about food and movement—but also about sleep. After working with a nutritionist in preparation for USS Nationals, I discovered that despite doing everything “right,” my sleep was the missing piece. Join me as we dive into sleep cycles, daily habits, and how aligning our personal energy affects how we show up in the spaces we share with children. Plus, practical steps to investigate your own energy layers and make sustainable changes. Tune in and start building a more energized, present version of yourself—one layer at a time. UPDATE: Turns out that my percentages aren't too terrible! How about you? Use the link below to learn more about sleep cycles and how much time is recommended to be in each stage. More info on sleep stages and cycles: https://www.simplypsychology.org/sleep-stages.html

In this episode of The Outside The Box Podcast, we explore how nature’s seasonal rhythms can inspire us to rethink the traditional New Year's resolutions. Instead of setting goals in the depth of winter, we discuss why spring is the perfect time for new beginnings. Tune in to learn how aligning with nature’s cycles can bring balance, creativity, and renewal to both your personal growth and your work with children. Plus, practical tips on incorporating seasonal rhythms into classroom routines and home life.

Welcome back to Outside the Box! I’m your host, Ade Hofmann, and in this episode, we’re diving into the deeply personal journey of creating something from scratch—whether it’s a program, a project, or a vision for your life. The process is so much more than the end result. It’s messy, emotional, and full of unexpected beauty. Join me as we unpack what it means to build something meaningful, embrace the twists and turns, and find joy in the journey. Grab a warm drink, settle in, and let’s take this walk together.

www.natureplayallday.org 

Nature Play Blueprint 4 Week Intensive

In this episode, The Discipline of Freedom: How Structure Sets Us Free in Nature-Based Education, we explore the transformative power of routines and rhythms in outdoor learning. Discover how intentional structure creates safety and trust, empowering children to take risks, explore, and build meaningful connections with the natural world—and with the educators who guide them. Join us as we redefine discipline, not as control, but as the foundation for freedom and growth in nature-based education.

 

FREE DOWNLOAD: The 15 Minute Rule

Take a listen to what’s in store on Ade’s NEW podcast, launching January 2, 2024. New episodes available every Monday! Please like, comment and share the podcast, we need help from listeners like you to spread the word. 💚 Now, go on, BE AWESOME!

Is play really rigorous? In this episode, Ade unpacks why play is not a break from learning—but the deepest, most demanding form of it. If you’re leading a nature- and play-based program and ever feel pressure to prove that “real learning” is happening, this conversation will reframe everything. We explore what rigor actually means, why adults struggle to trust play, and how protecting play transforms your leadership, confidence, and daily rhythms outdoors.

Join Ade in this episode as she walks with you through the three components to building a classroom community that is rotted in authentic connection, understating, trust and respect. Practicing these methods will not only positively impact your cohort at large but also expand your practice as an educator/caregiver. 


Love this episode? Want to dig even DEEPER?

Check out Ade’s newest virtual training: Observation & Documentation 101. Receive over half a dozen downloads to keep your documentation game on point and earn a certificate for 1.5 hours of professional development. Enroll today: https://www.natureplayallday.org/observation-documentation-101




Join Ade in this episode as she shares her latest tips on how to manage your classroom set up without stress or overwhelm. She will walk you through the before and after of intentionally creating spaces that have the children’s experience in mind. Download the FREE Guide to Why Play Matters here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua and shop major deals on gear at The Outdoor School Shop by clicking here: https://outdoorschoolshop.com?aff=13

Join Ade on this episode where she explores how to build guts, grit, personal power and get an edge on hard times. Walk with her as she connects her strength journey to her practices in the world of nature and play based education. Don’t forget to download the FREE Guide to Why Play Matters More Than Kindergarten Readiness here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua

Join Ade in this episode as she shares how she tackles the never ending to-do list as an entrepreneur, and program director. She shares with you some quick and tactical guidance that you can implement today! After this episode you will no longer be haunted by your personal to-do list. Don’t forget to download the free Guide to Why Play Matters MORE Than Kindergarten Readiness here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua

Join Ade as she chats about a spicy topic of how so many of us fear that our young children are falling behind in their education. Don’t forget to download the free Guide to Why Play Matters More Than Kindergarten Readiness here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua

Join Ade as embraces vulnerability in this episode and walks through some hurtles she has faced as she creates a solid ground to build her future on. What limiting beliefs are holding you back? Don’t forget to download her Guide To Why Play Matters More here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua

Choosing gear for your child (and you) is no easy feat. Listen in as Ade shares a new tip on how to choose gear that WORKS. Don’t forget to download The Ultimate Gear Guide for FREE using this link: https://mailchi.mp/1db2ee74701f/the-ultimate-gear-guide-sign-up

Why is asking for help SO HARD?! Walk with Ade as she shares some insight as to why asking and accepting help can feel so challenging. Tune in for a little tough love and a whole lot of “so, it’s not just me” moments. Dont forget to download her FREE Guide to Why Play Matters More here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua

Join Ade as she explores the notion of silver linings and why they’re so powerful in her practice of moving the needle closer to the “goal”. Unpack ideas of perfectionism and readiness. Don’t forget to download her Why Play Matters MORE guide here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua

Ade shares a heartfelt message for all those who are working so hard to make way for change in early childhood. She invites you to share in her efforts of change by joining a free community (NPBC). Click here for the Why Play Matters freebie: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua . Join the Nature and Play-Based Consortium for free here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1TXag1VhVXrojMB5Apwk2vRXDG6LpAwGlB9_fbu3bS2E/edit

Show Notes & Links: Referenced in this episode: Episode 25: Three Steps to Launching Your Nature-Based Program from Scratch The Nature Play Blueprint: 4-Week Intensive Mentorship 1:1 Mentorship with Ade — individualized support for directors, founders, and facilitators Topics covered: Defining and refining your vision Creating systems that support your energy and growth The importance of mentorship and community Why sustainability is more than just funding Ideal for: Nature-based educators, directors, and founders looking to strengthen their foundation and prevent burnout.

Walk with Ade as she debunks the great myth of the beloved worksheet. Ade shares her experience in a variety of early learning environments and how it’s helped shape her philosophy that living is learning and that above all, play and learning are synonymous. Do you need more proof for those on the fencers and naysayers? Ade’s put together a list of 10 reasons why outdoor winter play is crucial to children’s growth and development. Download it out here: https://mailchi.mp/40ecc05f650e/3eobj8gf3t Need more? Download Ades Why Play Matters MORE multipage guide here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua

Join Ade as she chats about what’s really keeping educators and caregivers INSIDE rather than venturing out into nature. Having trouble navigating the vast world of outdoor gear? Download The Ultimate Gear Guide, your one stop shop to knowing what you need and why here: https://mailchi.mp/1db2ee74701f/the-ultimate-gear-guide-sign-up

Ade shares with you her top 5 spaces to be sure to incorporate into any outdoor learning environment. She shares stories of how these spaces have a deep and lasting impact on children’s development. Don’t forget to download Ade’s FREE Guide to Why Play Matters more here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua

Walk with Ade alone the Observation Continuum and learn where you are on your journey to becoming a Great Observer. Download this exercise below to practice with your staff.

Join Ade as she explores the idea that gear is a vital piece of that beloved curriculum that so many of us cling to. Also hear about her two exclusive freebies she has created to help you gather gear with ease and major savings. Download your FREE guide to Why Play Matters MORE than Kindergarten readiness HERE: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua Check out Ade’s Ultimate Gear Guide: https://mailchi.mp/1db2ee74701f/the-ultimate-gear-guide-sign-up More Gear Goodies: https://mailchi.mp/d71298bbaa16/top5wintergear

Ade shares the top three lessons she’s learned on her journey to founding a fully nature and play-based early childhood program. Download your FREE guide to Why Play Matters More than Kindergarten readiness here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua

Explore the idea of “seeing the fear and doing it anyway”. Walk with Ade as she shares her lessons learned from her first mentor, and how they apply to her work as a program founder. Download your FREE guide to Why Play Matters MORE than Kindergarten Readiness here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua

Becoming aware of the barriers that keep us from facilitating a truly play-based learning space. Grab your FREE Guide to why Play Matters More than Kindergarten readiness HERE! https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua

🪶 Show Notes: In this episode, we cover: The 5 biggest misconceptions about nature and play-based programs How to respond when someone says, “It’s just play” Why academics thrive outdoors (and how to show parents that) The real difference between risk and danger How to make nature-based education more accessible and inclusive Why this approach isn’t a trend—it’s a return to how children have always learned Mentioned in this episode: The Nature Play Blueprint Intensive — 4 weeks of guided mentorship, 2 live calls, and unlimited voice/text support to help you lead your program with confidence. Mentorship Programs — personalized support for directors, founders, and educators growing their vision. 🔍 SEO Keywords: nature and play-based education, forest school myths, outdoor classroom, risky play, nature play programs, outdoor learning misconceptions, child-led learning, emergent curriculum, nature play pedagogy, play-based learning outdoors, nature education benefits, early childhood outdoor education Would you like me to make a short social media caption (Instag

🌿 Episode Overview In today’s episode, Ade breaks down a challenge every outdoor educator faces: big emotions in big spaces. While nature is calming, children still bring their full nervous systems outside—and dysregulation can feel even louder in the woods. Ade shares simple, research-backed strategies to help you support children with confidence while also protecting your own peace. You’ll learn why emotions often feel bigger outdoors, what mistakes even seasoned educators make, and the three-step rhythm that helps bring kids (and adults) back to center in wild, unstructured spaces. 🌲 What You’ll Learn Why outdoor environments can amplify big emotions The difference between harsh boundaries and clear boundaries in forest settings Three grounding strategies that work every time How to shrink the learning environment when a child is overwhelmed The power of narrating—not fixing—during emotional moments Common pitfalls that drain educators Why rhythms and routines matter more outdoors than anywhere else ✨ Key Takeaways You can’t co-regulate from a dysregulated nervous system—you go first. Freedom can be beautiful and overwhelming; shrinking the environment helps. Short, simple language reaches dysregulated kids best. Outdoor behavior challenges are normal—and often a sign children finally feel safe enough to release. You deserve systems and support that make this work sustainable. 🎧 Listen If You Are… A nature-based educator or forest school leader A classroom teacher transitioning to outdoor learning A founder of (or dreaming of building) your own nature- or play-based program Someone who wants clearer, calmer days with children outside 🧭 Mentioned in This Episode The Nature Play Blueprint — Ade’s signature mentorship for educators who want to build a sustainable, joy-filled outdoor program with strong rhythms, emotional support tools, and systems that actually work. A supportive path for teachers, assistants, directors, and program founders who don’t want to build their dream alone. 💛 Stay Connected If this episode encouraged you or gave you a strategy you can use this week, please share it with another outdoor educator. It helps more nature programs thrive—and helps others feel less alone in this work.

In this episode, Ade shares how to use nature itself as your curriculum—without rigid lesson plans or a canned program. You’ll learn why observation is the most powerful teaching tool, how child-led learning brings academic standards to life outdoors, and why trusting the seasons can give you a ready-made structure for your outdoor classroom. From the “living, breathing, larger-than-life water table” to storytelling and play around the fire circle, Ade unpacks practical ways to weave emergent curriculum, joy-centered education, and play-based learning into your daily rhythm. Whether you’re new to nature-based education or looking for fresh outdoor teaching strategies, this episode will help you feel more confident in creating unstructured play opportunities, connecting children to the natural world, and building a program shaped by place, purpose, and play. LINK: Become A Great Observer Course https://www.natureplayallday.org/offers/AJDmejJv/checkout

Episode Summary: Think creating an outdoor classroom has to cost thousands? Think again. In this episode, I’m sharing four practical and budget-friendly ways to design essential outdoor learning spaces—without draining your wallet. From community gathering spots to mud kitchens, art areas, and climbing spaces, you’ll walk away with clear, creative ideas for how to source materials, ask for donations, and make the most of what you already have. This episode is perfect for educators, childcare providers, and leaders who want to bring nature-based learning to life—even on a shoestring budget. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to set up a community/gathering space for free or cheap using secondhand seating and found materials. Ways to create a makerspace with tools, loose parts, and upcycled supplies that spark creativity. How to design a mud kitchen or play kitchen using old cookware, pallets, and donations. Affordable options for gross motor play spaces—from hammocks to climbing setups—without buying expensive equipment. Simple strategies for asking families and your community for support through donations, swaps, and “buy nothing” groups. Why Listen: If you’ve ever felt like budget is the biggest barrier to starting or expanding your outdoor classroom, this episode will give you the inspiration and practical steps to make it happen right now. Resources & Links: Connect with me on Instagram @natureplayallday Join my mentorship program: The Nature Play Blueprint (a 4-week intensive designed to help you create a thriving outdoor classroom with confidence and clarity). This program goes deeper into planning, routines, and communication strategies that make outdoor teaching sustainable—so you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. https://www.natureplayallday.org/nature-play-blueprint

Show Notes Recap

Title: How to Talk to Parents About Risky Play—Without Apologizing

In this episode: Why you need to ground yourself before talking to families Real language you can use to describe what risky play is and how you support it How to normalize nervousness and still stand your ground Simple strategies to communicate supervision and safety Ways to build trust without overexplaining or defending every choice

Mentioned:

Nature Play Blueprint Mentorship — 4-week mentorship for educators and program leaders who want to lead with clarity and joy, not fear.

Learn how to implement five simple rhythms to bring more flow, less stress, and more child-centered connection to your outdoor days. Perfect for educators feeling stuck, scattered, or just ready to create more ease in the day. In This Episode: How to structure your day without rigidity Why circle time might actually work long-term Anchoring transitions with real intention Protecting unstructured play time Creating closure that supports regulation

Resources Mentioned:

🌿 Nature Play Blueprint Mentorship — A 4-week intensive mentorship for educators and program founders. Build strong rhythms and systems with full support.

https://www.natureplayallday.org/nature-play-blueprint

⏰15 Minute Rule- How to gradually build in more time for uninterupted exploration and play. 

https://www.natureplayallday.org/signup-3249d9ff-e126-4b5e-8329-87628aa2db8c

 

Show Notes Your Children Don't Need a Perfect Program. They Need a Present Leader. How Nature-Based Directors Can Prepare for a New School Year It's August, and if you're anything like me, your mind is already racing ahead to opening day. The supply lists. Staffing. Enrollment. Curriculum. Systems. The projects you've been hoping to finish before children arrive. Preparation matters. But over the years, I've realized that the most important thing I prepare each August isn't my classroom or our basecamp. It's myself. In this first episode of our August series, we're talking about what it means to prepare your heart, your attention, and your leadership before preparing your program. Because the foundation you build as a leader will shape every relationship, rhythm, and routine that follows. If you're a forest school founder, nature-based preschool director, outdoor educator, or anyone leading a child-centered program this fall, this conversation is for you. In this episode, we'll explore: * Why preparing yourself is just as important as preparing your environment. * How to recognize the subtle signs that you're slipping into hurry and survival mode. * The difference between building a perfect program and building a present leadership practice. * Why new ideas, traditions, and programs need time to build their foundation. * How slowing down allows you to become more available to children, families, and your team. Reflection Questions Before opening day, spend a little quiet time with these questions: * Who do I want the first child to meet? * Who do I want my staff to work beside? * Who do I want families to experience? * What does hurry sound like in my own mind? * What helps me return to presence when I feel myself slipping into survival mode? If this episode resonated with you... I'd love for you to subscribe, leave a review, or share this episode with another nature-based leader who's preparing for a new school year. And if you're looking for a thought partner as you build a sustainable, child-centered program, I'd love to connect. Through mentorship, I walk alongside founders and directors who want to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and intention. **Remember: Your children don't need a perfect program. They need a present leader.

The Summer Reset Series – Episode 3 As founders and directors, it's easy to become the person who holds everything together. We answer every question. We solve every problem. We carry the vision, the logistics, the relationships, and the responsibility. While that may feel like good leadership, over time it can also become one of the biggest barriers to building a healthy, sustainable program. In this final episode of The Summer Reset Series, we're exploring what it means to move from being indispensable to becoming a leader who equips others, builds trust, and creates a program that can flourish long into the future. Because sustainable leadership isn't about doing everything yourself—it's about creating the conditions where children, educators, and your program can all thrive. In this episode, we'll explore: * Why founders often become the "keeper of everything." * The difference between being indispensable and building something that lasts. * What healthy ecosystems can teach us about leadership. * How empowering your team creates stronger programs. * Small shifts that help you move from carrying everything to cultivating shared leadership. Reflection Questions Take a few quiet moments this week and consider: * Where am I holding on more tightly than I need to? * What responsibilities could I begin sharing with someone else? * Where am I unintentionally becoming a bottleneck in my own program? * How can I create opportunities for my team to grow in confidence and leadership? * If I stepped away for a day, what systems or relationships would continue to support the program? Remember, sustainable leadership isn't about letting go of your vision—it's about creating a culture where that vision can thrive beyond your own capacity. As We Close the Summer Reset Series... Over the past four episodes, we've explored what it looks like to slow down, pay attention, and lead with greater intention. Together, we've reflected on: * Why leadership begins with paying attention. * The questions worth asking before planning your next season. * What your program might be trying to teach you. * How to build a program that doesn't depend entirely on you. My hope is that you move into this next season not with a longer to-do list, but with greater clarity, curiosity, and confidence in the leader you're becoming. Want to Keep the Conversation Going? If these episodes have resonated with you, I'd love to invite you to continue the journey. Through one-on-one mentorship, I work alongside nature-based founders and directors who are building child-centered, play-based programs and want support navigating leadership, sustainable growth, enrollment, staffing, and the everyday realities of running a thriving nature-based program. You don't have to figure it all out alone. You can learn more by connecting with me on Instagram, visiting my website, or reaching out to start a conversation. I'd love to hear your story. www.natureplayallday.com/mentorship If this series encouraged you... Please consider subscribing, leaving a review, or sharing the podcast with another founder or educator who could use a little encouragement as they prepare for the season ahead. Your support helps more nature-based leaders discover these conversations and strengthens a growing community of educators committed to raising children with wonder, resilience, and connection to the natural world. Remember: Don't just make time to work *on* your program. Make time to listen to what it's trying to teach you. Because healthy programs grow from healthy leaders.

The Summer Reset Series – Episode 2 As nature-based educators, we spend so much of our time observing children. We watch before we intervene. We notice patterns. We stay curious. We trust that careful observation often reveals more than immediate action. But what if we led our programs the same way? In this episode of The Summer Reset Series, we're exploring a simple question that has completely changed the way I approach leadership: "What is my program trying to teach me?" Instead of viewing every challenge as a problem to fix, we'll explore how curiosity can help us uncover what our programs, teams, and daily rhythms are revealing. Sometimes the greatest breakthroughs don't come from working harder—they come from paying closer attention. Whether you're navigating staffing challenges, enrollment concerns, parent communication, or simply feeling stuck, this episode is an invitation to slow down and become a student of your own leadership. In this episode, we'll explore: * Why observation is one of the most valuable leadership skills you can develop. * The difference between reacting to challenges and learning from them. * How children naturally model curiosity, resilience, and experimentation. * Why every difficult season has something to teach us. * How paying attention can lead to clearer, more sustainable decisions. Reflection Questions Take a notebook outside this week and spend a little time with these questions: * What keeps happening in my program? * Where do I consistently feel tension? * What keeps bringing joy? * What continues to surprise me? * If I stopped seeing this as a problem to solve, what might I discover instead? You don't need to have all the answers. The goal isn't to solve everything today—it's to notice what your leadership has been trying to show you. Coming Up Next: In the final episode of The Summer Reset Series, we'll explore what it means to stop building a program that depends entirely on you. We'll talk about sustainable leadership, creating healthy systems, empowering your team, and why the strongest programs aren't built around one indispensable person—they're built around a shared vision that can flourish long into the long into the future. If this episode encouraged you... I'd love for you to subscribe, leave a review, or share this episode with another nature-based founder, forest school leader, or outdoor educator who's walking through a challenging season. And if these conversations have you thinking differently about your own leadership, I'd love to continue that conversation. Mentoring nature-based founders and directors is one of my greatest joys, and I'll be sharing more about ways we can work together in future episodes. Remember: Don't just make time to work *on* your program. Make time to listen to what it's trying to teach you.

Fall planning has a way of sneaking up on us. Before we know it, we're thinking about curriculum, enrollment, staffing, schedules, and all the things we want to improve for the coming year. But before you dive into another planning session, what if you paused long enough to reflect? In this episode of The Summer Reset Series, I'm sharing the five questions I return to every summer before I make decisions about the next season. These questions have helped me lead with greater clarity, simplify what no longer serves our program, and reconnect with the heart of why I do this work. If you're a nature-based founder, forest school director, outdoor educator, or anyone leading a child-centered program, this episode is an invitation to slow down, pay attention, and plan from a place of intention rather than urgency. In this episode, we'll explore: * Why reflection should come before planning. * Five powerful questions to guide your fall planning. * How to identify what energized you—and what quietly drained you. * Why children's engagement offers some of the best feedback you'll ever receive. * The importance of making small, intentional changes instead of overhauling everything at once. Your Summer Reset Reflection Take your journal somewhere outside this week and spend a little time with these questions: 1. What gave me energy this year? 2. What consistently drained me? 3. Where did the children come alive? 4. What am I holding onto that my program has outgrown? 5. What is one small change that could make the biggest difference? You don't have to answer them all in one sitting. Let them stay with you. Pay attention to what keeps resurfacing over the next few days. Coming Up Next In our next episode, "What Your Program Is Trying to Teach You", we'll explore how the most challenging moments in leadership often become our greatest teachers—and why curiosity is one of the most important leadership skills we can cultivate. If this episode encouraged you... I'd love for you to subscribe, leave a review, or share this episode with another nature-based educator or program leader who's beginning to think about fall. And if these conversations are helping you think differently about your leadership, stay tuned. Later this summer, I'll be sharing more about ways we can work together through mentorship for nature-based founders and directors who want to build thriving, sustainable programs. Until next time... Don't just make time to work *on* your program. Make time to listen to what it's trying to teach you.

Before You Rush Into Fall... One Last Summer Conversation Before We Reset As nature-based educators and program founders, it's easy to believe that every spare moment of summer should be spent planning for fall. Curriculum, enrollment, staffing, marketing, supplies—there's always one more thing to do. But what if your most important work this summer isn't creating another plan? What if it's paying attention? In this final episode of the Sustainable Summer Series, we're slowing down before jumping into the next season. Together, we'll explore why nature models healthy leadership, how reflection can bring clarity, and why the strongest programs are built by leaders who make space to notice what truly matters. If you're feeling stretched thin or wondering how to move into fall with more intention and less overwhelm, this conversation is for you. In this episode, you'll discover: Why slowing down can make you a stronger leader. What nature teaches us about seasons of growth and restoration. Four reflection questions to help you prepare for the fall. How paying attention can reveal the next right step for your program. Why healthy leadership creates healthier learning communities. Reflection Questions Take your journal outside this week and spend some time with these questions: • What surprised me this year? • What challenged me? • What brought me the most joy? • What felt heavier than it should have? You don't need to have all the answers today. Sometimes the most meaningful insights come when we create space to notice. Coming Next Month Next Monday, we're kicking off The Summer Reset Series—four conversations designed to help nature-based founders and directors lead the next season with greater clarity, confidence, and sustainability. We'll explore: Five questions every nature-based director should ask before fall. What your program might be trying to teach you. How to build a program that doesn't depend entirely on you. Leading with intention instead of reacting to every challenge. If you're ready to build a thriving nature-based program without sacrificing yourself in the process, you won't want to miss it. If this episode encouraged you... I'd love for you to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another nature-based educator or founder who could use this reminder today. Your support helps more leaders discover that sustainable programs begin with sustainable leadership. Connect with me: Instagram: @natureplayallday Website: www.natureplayallday.com Interested in mentorship for nature-based founders and directors? Stay tuned—I'll be sharing more about ways we can work together throughout this upcoming series. Remember: Healthy programs grow from healthy leaders.

Episode 3: Leading Summer Programs Without Burning Out Practical Support for Nature-Based Directors and Outdoor Educators As we wrap up our Sustainable Summer Series, we're zooming out to talk about leadership. Summer has a way of revealing what's working in our programs—and what isn't. From staffing challenges and enrollment pressures to overextending ourselves in the name of serving others, this season often shines a light on the systems, habits, and leadership patterns that need our attention. In this episode, Ade shares how to lead summer programs in a way that protects your energy, supports your team, and helps you arrive in the fall with clarity instead of exhaustion. In This Episode: Why summer often exposes weak systems and unrealistic expectations The difference between sustainable leadership and overextension How to steward your energy, capacity, and program well Why growth should never come at the expense of your well-being How the decisions you make this summer impact your fall program year Key Takeaway: A program that only functions when the director is exhausted is not a sustainable program. Whether you're leading a forest school, nature-based preschool, outdoor learning program, or summer camp, this episode will encourage you to build rhythms, systems, and boundaries that support both your mission and the human leading it. For nature-based founders, directors, and outdoor educators who want to lead with clarity, sustainability, and confidence.

Episode 2: Summer Survival for Nature-Based Educators Staying Regulated, Hydrated, and Human During Camp Season Summer camps and outdoor programs don't have to be packed with activities to be meaningful. In this episode, Ade shares why simple rhythms, realistic expectations, and regulated adults are often the secret ingredients to a successful summer season. If you've ever felt pressure to entertain children every minute of the day or create a "Pinterest-perfect" camp experience, this episode is your permission to simplify. You'll learn practical ways to support both children and educators through the busiest months of the year while protecting your energy and preserving the joy that brought you to this work in the first place. In This Episode: Why simple rhythms create stronger summer programs The importance of protecting the hottest part of the day How boredom can lead to creativity and deeper play Why children need grounded adults more than constant entertainment Creating sustainable summer routines that support everyone Key Takeaway: Children don't need a cruise director—they need a grounded adult. Perfect for nature-based directors, outdoor educators, forest school leaders, camp facilitators, and anyone looking to create a more sustainable and joyful summer season.

HOW TO AVOID SUMMER BURNOUT IN OUTDOOR EDUCATION Heat, Hydration, Boundaries, and Sustainable Summer Rhythms Summer programming is magical—but it can also be physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding. In this episode, Ade shares practical strategies for avoiding burnout during camp season, including hydration, nutrition, simplifying expectations, and recognizing the signs of dysregulation before they become exhaustion. Whether you're leading a nature-based program, forest school, outdoor classroom, or summer camp, this conversation is a reminder that sustainable leadership begins with caring for yourself, too. In This Episode: Why summer burnout looks different than school-year burnout The connection between hydration, regulation, and energy Signs you may be overriding your own needs How to simplify summer programming without sacrificing quality Why caring for yourself is part of effective leadership Key Takeaway: Your goal this summer isn't to survive camp season—it's to arrive in the fall still feeling like yourself. For nature-based directors, forest school leaders, outdoor educators, and camp facilitators who want to lead sustainably without burning out.

The end of the school year often leads straight into summer planning—but if you’re a nature-based director, forest school leader, or outdoor educator, skipping reflection can lead to burnout. In this episode, Ade shares why it’s essential to pause, process, and close your program year before jumping into what’s next. You’ll walk away with simple reflection prompts and a clearer, more grounded approach to sustainable leadership in outdoor learning environments. If you’re feeling the pressure to keep going, this is your reminder: you don’t need a plan yet—you need space.

The Culture You're Hoping For Won't Happen by Accident. How Nature-Based Leaders Create a Strong School Culture from Day One The first weeks of school are about so much more than establishing routines. They're about establishing culture. As nature-based founders and directors, we spend time preparing our environments, organizing materials, and planning our days. But the strongest programs aren't remembered because of perfectly labeled shelves or polished lesson plans. They're remembered because of how people felt. In this episode, we're exploring how school culture is intentionally cultivated through the everyday interactions we have with children, families, and staff. Together, we'll look at what nature teaches us about creating the conditions for trust, belonging, curiosity, and joy to grow. In this episode, we'll explore: * Why culture is one of your most important leadership responsibilities. * The difference between creating rules and cultivating belonging. * What nature can teach us about healthy communities. * How children and staff experience culture through everyday interactions. * Practical ways to build trust and connection from the very first day of school. Reflection Questions As you prepare for opening day, consider: * What do I want children to feel when they arrive? * What do I want families to experience when they entrust us with their children? * What do I want my staff to believe about working here? * Which three words best describe the culture I'm hoping to cultivate? * What can I intentionally do this week to bring those words to life? If this episode encouraged you... Please consider subscribing, leaving a review, or sharing it with another nature-based founder or early childhood leader preparing for a new school year. And if you're looking for support as you build a thriving, sustainable nature-based program, I'd love to walk alongside you through mentorship. Sometimes the greatest gift a leader can have is someone to ask thoughtful questions, offer perspective, and help them stay rooted in what matters most. Remember: Culture isn't something that happens by accident. It's cultivated—one relationship, one interaction, and one intentional choice at a time.