Outdoor Classrooms Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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Outdoor Classrooms Podcast

Victoria Hackett, M.Ed: Learning Gardens and Nature Based Curriculum

Education

Frequency: 1 episode/6d. Total Eps: 200

The Outdoor Classrooms Podcast is the podcast for teachers and parents and anyone interested in cultivating learning gardens and nature-based curricula for children. It’s a show that will help you transform your outdoor space and will offer “seeds of inspiration” for playful learning outdoors. Each week, Victoria Hackett and her guests will share tips and actionable strategies that you will need in order to set in motion, manage and grow your Outdoor Classroom. You’ll learn how to implement the 5 Phases of Teaching Outdoors, all while providing a new way of learning for your children! Studies have shown that children who learn outdoors in all seasons “develop a sense of self, independence, confidence, creativity, decision-making, problem-solving skills, empathy towards others, motor skills, self-discipline, and initiative.” Victoria Hackett is the founder of Outdoor-Classrooms.com, The CIRCLE Membership community, and The Secret Gardens Demonstration Outdoor Classroom. You can follow her on Instagram and Facebook. To learn more, head on over to our virtual playground at outdoor-classrooms.com.

Recent rankings

Latest chart positions across Apple Podcasts and Spotify rankings.

Apple Podcasts

🇨🇦 Canada - howTo
26/08/2026
#95
🇨🇦 Canada - howTo
25/08/2026
#69
🇨🇦 Canada - howTo
09/07/2026
#89
🇨🇦 Canada - howTo
08/07/2026
#42
🇨🇦 Canada - howTo
20/06/2026
#97
🇨🇦 Canada - howTo
19/06/2026
#77
🇨🇦 Canada - howTo
10/06/2026
#99
🇨🇦 Canada - howTo
09/06/2026
#69
🇨🇦 Canada - howTo
08/06/2026
#47
🇬🇧 Great Britain - howTo
30/04/2026
#97

Spotify

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Shared links between episodes and podcasts

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https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/
158 shares
https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/the-circle-our-membership-community/
130 shares
https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/product/seeds-of-inspiration-outdoor-learning-card-deck/
112 shares

https://www.instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms
103 shares
https://my.captivate.fm/instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/
41 shares
https://www.instagram.com/themontessoritree
4 shares

https://www.facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1
72 shares
http://facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1
9 shares
https://www.facebook.com/themontessoritree
4 shares

RSS feed quality and score

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RSS feed quality

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Score global : 48%

Publication history

Monthly episode publishing history over the past years.

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Latest published episodes

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119: Don't Just Listen – Experience Buddy Builders Outdoors for Real Impact

Friday, August 30, 2024 • Duration 13:15

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, we explore the concerning decline in playtime among children and how it affects their ability to form friendships and develop essential social skills. Join us as we discuss the underlying reasons behind this decline and its long-term implications.

Key Points Discussed:

Introduction to the topic and its relevance
Statistical overview of the decline in children's playtime
Factors contributing to the reduction of playtime (e.g., technology, academic pressures, safety concerns)
The role of free play in social and emotional development
Insights from experts on the impacts of reduced playtime on friendships
Questions parents and educators can use to promote playtime
Preview of the Buddy Builders Outdoors: Get Acquainted Activities workshop

Key Takeaways:

Understanding the crucial role of play in childhood development
Recognizing the current trends and statistics on children's playtime
Identifying common obstacles to play and finding ways to overcome them
An invitation to join our workshop for practical tips and activities to encourage more playtime and enhance social connections among children

Resources Mentioned:

Buddy Builders Outdoors: Get Acquainted Activities workshop details REGISTER HERE!
Relevant articles or studies on the decline of playtime (if applicable)

Call to Action:

Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast for more insights
Share this episode with fellow educators and parents
Reach out to victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com for more questions or topic suggestions

Outdoor Classroom Resources:

Join the Discussion: Continue the conversation in our CIRCLE Membership Community.
Upcoming Events: Don’t miss out on our future live events! Subscribe to the Seedling News.
Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps us grow and bring more valuable content to you.

How to Leave a Review for Our Podcast

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today's episode, consider leaving us a review. Here’s how:

For Apple Podcasts:

Open the Apple Podcasts app.
Search for Outdoor Classrooms Podcast
Tap on our podcast, scroll down to the 'Ratings & Reviews' section.
Tap 'Write a Review', rate the podcast, and write your review.

For Spotify:

Open the Spotify app.
Go to the Outdoor Classrooms podcast page.
Tap the three dots, and select ‘Rate Show.’
Leave a rating of your choice.

Thank You! We appreciate your support and look forward to reading your reviews. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.

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118: End of Summer Special: Top 5 Podcasts Playlist

Tuesday, August 27, 2024 • Duration 05:23

End of Summer Special: Top 5 Podcast Playlist

In this dynamic episode, we explore five transformative educational approaches that shape the future of outdoor learning. We begin with the "Walden Project," an immersive nature-based initiative inspired by Henry David Thoreau, which fosters a deep connection with the environment through experiential education.

Next, we celebrate the enduring "Legacy of Bloom" with a special focus on family and gardening traditions. Join us as we dive into stories and memories shared by Victoria's own family, including the inspiring journey of her 91-year-old mother, who continues to cultivate her garden with love and dedication. This episode is a testament to the generational passion for gardening and how these roots continue to flourish, offering invaluable lessons and inspiration for outdoor learning.

We then shift our focus to "Balanced and Barefoot," discussing the importance of unstructured play in nature for children's physical and mental development.

Following this, "Roots of Learning Elementary Science" highlights innovative methods for integrating hands-on scientific exploration in outdoor settings.

Lastly, we delve into the "Therapeutic Forest School," examining how forest environments can be utilized to support emotional and psychological well-being in students.

Join us as we uncover these enriching educational practices and their lasting benefits.

End of Summer Special: Top 5 Podcast Playlist

Outdoor Classroom Resources:

Join the Discussion: Continue the conversation in our CIRCLE Membership Community.
Upcoming Events: Don’t miss out on our future live events! Subscribe to the Seedling News.

How to Leave a Review for Our Podcast

109: Day One: Unveiling the Secrets of Summer Wildlife Gardens

Tuesday, June 25, 2024 • Duration 32:07

Introduction

Welcome to the first episode of our free 5-part series, "Unlock the Secrets of Summer Teaching Gardens"! Today, we will embark on a fascinating journey to discover the hidden gems in your summer wildlife garden. I'm Victoria Hackett, your guide through this adventure, where we’ll explore various ways to attract and support wildlife in your outdoor classrooms teaching garden.

Episode Highlights

Introduction: Brief overview of the series and what to expect in this episode.
Understanding Your Garden's Ecosystem: Learn about the different components of a wildlife-friendly garden.
Native Plants: Importance of incorporating native plants to attract local wildlife.
Water Features: How adding sources of water can attract various species.
Creating Shelters: Simple ways to provide shelter and nesting areas for wildlife.
Sustainable Gardening Practices: Tips on maintaining an eco-friendly garden.
Q&A: Answering listener questions about starting a wildlife garden.
Conclusion: Recap of the key points and a teaser for the next episode.

Key Takeaways

Ecosystem Balance: The importance of understanding, and maintaining an eco-balanced garden environment for children.
Impact of Native Plants: How native flora attracts and supports local wildlife.
Water Sources: Benefits of incorporating water features like birdbaths or small ponds.
Shelter and Nesting: Methods to create safe havens for different species.
Sustainability: Practicing eco-friendly gardening to support long-term wildlife health.

Resources Mentioned

Dig deeper in our Exploring Nature in Summer Masterclass

Action Steps for Listeners

Assess Your Garden: Evaluate your current garden setup.

Call to ActionConnect with Us

19. Keep Kids Muddy with Jess Labbe at the Village Nest Cooperative Nature School

Tuesday, May 16, 2023 • Duration 45:56

This entire month we talking about Teaching and Learning Outdoors. In this episode, we are talking with Jessica Labbe from the Village Nest Cooperative Nature School.

HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE:

The history of The Village Nest Cooperative.
KEEP KIDS MUDDY "motto."
The Village Nest Cooperative Nature School Forest School Model
How they manage preschoolers napping outdoors.
How they are more than child care ...and that you are more like a VILLAGE.
The evolution of their programs and the different types of programming offerings.
The Curriculum at Village Nest Cooperative Nature School.
What the children learn at Village Nest Cooperative Nature School
How they handle bad weather.

MEET JESSICA:

Jessica Labbe is a Forest Preschool Educator/Ambassador committed to environmental education and improving early childhood development through nature-based exploration. She holds a BA in Early Child Education and worked with preschool-aged children in the outdoors for 15 + years before opening the Village Nest in 2020. She has been asked to teach at several conferences, particularly in the field of literacy and taking toddlers outdoors.

Jessica has a passion for inspiring imaginative play and often telling stories about unicorns and mermaids. She also believes wholeheartedly that nature-play is the most all-inclusive way to educate children.

During her time off you can find her on nature walks with her dog Kota, kayaking, enjoying the beach, camping, or somewhere in her garden. She also enjoys reading and is committed to lifelong learning.

THE VILLAGE NEST COOPERATIVE NATURE SCHOOL:

The Village Nest grew out of an immediate need and desire to keep our forest school, formerly at the Kittery Community Center, open during the COVID-19 Epidemic. No one could have imagined the magic that would unfold after that immediate need. When the Global Pandemic closed the program, Jess knew she needed to do something to help families in the community and she acted. Within just three months, she was able to open Maine's first fully-outdoor Preschool program.

18. Imagine If Teaching Outdoors Was The Norm?

Episode 18

Thursday, May 11, 2023 • Duration 09:14

This entire month we talking about Teaching & Learning Outdoors. In this episode, we are asking the question, "What If?" and "Imagine."

HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE:

In this mini-episode, we are asking questions:

What is the Scandinavian philosophy of outdoor life?
What if every school made using outdoor space a substantial part of every day?
What if every school had an Outdoor Classroom?
What if every teacher were trained to work in Outdoor Classrooms?
What is the Scandinavian word for spending time outdoors?
What is the Swedish concept of being outside?
How can we embrace the Scandinavian culture of spending more time outdoors?

MEET VICTORIA:

Founder of Outdoor-Classrooms.com, The Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom Nature Classes, the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, and The CIRCLE Membership Community.

The foundation of my work is twofold: to inspire teachers, parents & school communities to make their own outdoor classrooms and to do so on a shoestring budget.

In communicating all the possibilities, I developed a framework for what I call The Five Phases of Teaching Outdoors which can be found in The Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp. To continue these important conversations, I created the Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE Membership Community which includes a toolshed of methods and resources for cultivating Outdoor Classrooms and Nature Based Teaching.

At Outdoor Classrooms, I make it simple, easy, and cost-effective for you to start, develop, and enjoy your own one-of-a-kind outdoor classroom… one that integrates perfectly with your curriculum, outdoor space, and budget.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve had an outdoor classroom for years, here you will find the tools, training, community, and time-tested principles you need to:

17. Rethinking Nature Pedagogy in Higher Education with April Zakjo

Episode 17

Tuesday, May 9, 2023 • Duration 39:55

This entire month we talking about Teaching and Learning Outdoors.

HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE:

In this episode, we are talking with April Zakjo, founder of April's Teaching Tree and faculty member of Comunity College of Vermont. The focus of this important conversation centers around rethinking Nature Pedagogy in Higher Education.

Why April shifted from beginning her career as a public school teacher using a traditional approach to teaching to learning outdoors.
Why promoting an emergent & nature-based pedagogy after getting a master’s degree in Curriculum & Instruction from the University of Virginia became a priority.
How April supports educators who need to implement a “standards-based curriculum” AND outdoor learning.
How April is helping many educators do both.
How Grab & Go curriculum materials can foster emergent learning in the outdoor classroom.
April's work in higher education and how she is helping bring outdoor classroom knowledge to college courses.

MEET APRIL ZAKJO:

April Zajko, M.Ed. is an early childhood educator and a faculty member of the Community College of Vermont. April has worked in early childhood education (ECE) throughout her career in a variety of roles, including public school teacher, pre-kindergarten teacher, and founder and director of a nature-based preschool. April moderates the “Nature Inspired Teacher” Facebook group that has over 6,500 members from around the world! Over the last thirteen years, April has facilitated ECE professional development with hundreds of educators who want to bring nature into the heart of their curriculum. April serves as a 2023 Exchange Fellow for the Vermont Association for the Education of Young Children where she is examining the intersection of the planet and young children by identifying ways to support educators in making more meaningful connections to nature as a way to create lifelong stewards.

CONNECT WITH APRIL:

April’s Teaching Tree - https://aprilsteachingtree.mykajabi.com/links

16. Teaching Patience Through Nature Study

Episode 16

Thursday, May 4, 2023 • Duration 12:56

This entire month we talking about Teaching & Learning Outdoors. In this episode, we are talking about how Nature Study can inspire patience, wonder, curiosity, and joy.

"Adopt the pace of nature; her secret is patience." Ralph Waldo Emerson

HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE:

In this episode, we are talking about:

Why SIT SPOTS make a difference in our lives as educators.
Prompt curiosity questions that inspire Nature Study.
How to empower children through Nature Study.
Charlotte Mason’s Reasons to Do Nature Study.
The importance of leaving time for reflection.

MEET VICTORIA:

Founder of Outdoor-Classrooms.com, The Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom Nature Classes, the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, and The CIRCLE Membership Community.

The foundation of my work is twofold: to inspire teachers, parents & school communities to make their own outdoor classrooms and to do so on a shoestring budget.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve had an outdoor classroom for years, here you will find the tools, training, community, and time-tested principles you need to:

15. Rooted in Imagination with Clare Nugent from The Ferntop Nature Preschool

Episode 15

Tuesday, May 2, 2023 • Duration 50:21

This entire month we talking about Teaching and Learning Outdoors.

HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE:

In this episode, we are talking with Clare Nugent, founder, and owner of Ferntop Nature Preschool in Tennessee. The focus of this important conversation centers around...

The Ferntop School Story
The integration of How Empathy, Wonder, Community, and Play
Elements & activities that inspire wonder & curiosity.
Where Clare finds her inspiration for nature-based curriculum.
What's blooming at Ferntop Nature School and how they weave outdoor elements into their outdoor curriculum & programming.
The use of fire.
How Ferntop incorporates music into everyday outdoor learning.
A Day at Ferntop for Educators.

MEET CLARE NUGENT:

My earliest memory of nature is gardening with my grandmother. As a child, this garden seemed massive, with many paths and places to ramble. In reality, it was a 10 x 5 rectangle with a central path down the middle. Regardless, it was a magical space that forged relationships with nature that have lasted a lifetime.

Home-educating my own children provided hours of outdoor exploration, and it was during this time that I realized the power of nature in a child’s life to inspire their play and imagination. I began developing programming for groups, schools, and museums that combined music, movement, stories, and learning that revolved around the natural world and the seasons. I was trained in New York with Musikgarten, a rich music and movement curriculum that uses elements of nature in its music, and began my education in child development and early childhood education.

FERNTOP NATURE SCHOOL:

Widowed in 2010, I moved my family back to Tennessee, where I was born and raised, and opened up the first licensed nature preschool in the Southeast. I bought a farm and turned the barn into a school. I took classes to become a Tennessee naturalist so I could better understand the flora and fauna of my area. The areas around the farm became our classroom. At that time, the field of nature/forest education in America was in its infancy, so I traveled to Scotland and England, where outdoor schools are common and thriving, for intensive study in outdoor education. I began training and speaking at conferences around the Southeast about nature education, and the possibilities it holds for children and families. Ferntop Nature School is currently in its 9th year of operation and provides programming to children ages 3-10 years, and hosts events/training for educators, parents, therapists, and anyone seeking to understand deeper how to learn WITH nature, not just IN nature.

14. Explore the Temperate Rainforest with Nicole Fravel & the Wildwood Nature School

Episode 14

Tuesday, April 25, 2023 • Duration 42:53

This entire month we talking about Getting Outdoors. We are also collaborating with The Outdoor School Shop! Are you looking for Outdoor Gear? Check out the Outdoor School Shop for all you need to keep you and your kiddos dry and outside. Get your waterproof on and jump in the mud with 20% off the entire full-price RAIN category at The Outdoor School Shop. Use code: PODCAST at check out.

HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE:

In this episode, we are talking with Nicole Fravel, founder, and owner of The Wildwood Nature School. The focus of this important conversation centers around exploring the Temperate Rainforest with children.

How Nicole transitioned from a Hybrid (indoor/outdoor)Program to an All-Outdoors Program.
Tips for using the Forest as your Outdoor Classroom
Looking at how to use fallen trees as a climbing structure in Nature School
How Nicole went from Classroom Teacher to Founder of the Wildwood Nature School
Understanding the essence of a child-Led program in the Forest.

MEET NICOLE FRAVEL:

Nicole Dravillas Fravel is the founder and lead teacher of Wildwood Nature School. She holds a Masters in Education from Stanford University and has 30 years of experience in the early childhood field, including as a public school kindergarten teacher, museum educator, and curriculum writer. For the past 13 years, she has operated a forest preschool in Portland, Oregon. Ms. Dravillas Fravel shares the joys and benefits of nature preschool through Wildwood Teaching workshops and videos.

WILDWOOD NATURE SCHOOL:

Wildwood Nature School opened its doors to its first group of preschoolers in September 2010 and has since gained a respected reputation as a place for experiential learning and childhood at the pace nature provides.

13. The Magic of Mud Play

Episode 13

Tuesday, April 18, 2023 • Duration 24:49

This entire month we talking about Getting Outdoors. In this episode, we are talking about MUD which also makes it the perfect time to be collaborating with The Outdoor School Shop! The proper Outdoor Gear can make all the difference in the world when kids are invited to play in the Mud. Make sure you get your waterproof on and jump in the mud with 20% off the entire full-price RAIN category at The Outdoor School Shop. Use code: PODCAST at check out.

HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS EPISODE:

In this episode, we are talking about:

Why MUD PLAY is worth the mess.
What is Mud Play?
Why mud play is more than just fun.
Why do kids love mud?
What else is happening when children play in the mud, besides getting dirty and building their immune systems?
How to prepare for Mud Play?
Mud Play and Mindfulness

MEET VICTORIA:

Founder of Outdoor-Classrooms.com, The Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom Nature Classes, the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, and The CIRCLE Membership Community.

The foundation of my work is twofold: to inspire teachers, parents & school communities to make their own outdoor classrooms and to do so on a shoestring budget.

Outdoor Classrooms Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

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Shared links between episodes and podcasts

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Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

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Outdoor Classrooms Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

Other99+

Instagram25

Facebook16

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Similar podcasts and content

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Other99+

Instagram25

Facebook16

Apple Podcasts

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