A One-Day Immersive Retreat
An 8-hour experiential retreat exploring the practice and purpose of learning outdoors.

Step outside and reconnect with the land as a place of learning, relationship, and renewal. This one-day retreat invites elementary educators and nature-based practitioners to explore the foundations of outdoor learning while experiencing adaptable activities that can be brought directly into nature spaces within programs and schools.

Together, we will explore what outdoor learning is, why teaching outside matters, and how the natural world can become an active partner in learning. Through discussion, movement, and hands-on experiences, participants will develop a deeper understanding of how to create meaningful and intentional learning experiences outdoors.

Retreat Themes & Experiences
What Is Outdoor Learning & Why Teach Outside?
Explore the value of outdoor learning and the many ways time outside can support curiosity, connection, creativity, and wellbeing.

Setting Up for Success & Risk Assessment
Consider practical strategies for preparing for the weather, creating safe and engaging outdoor learning environments, including site awareness, boundaries, weather, and risk-benefit assessment.

Land as Teacher
Shift perspective from simply learning about nature to learning with and from the land. Explore ways to notice what a place has to teach us and how the landscape can shape curriculum and experience.

Seasonal Curriculum
Discover how the changing seasons can provide a natural framework for curriculum, inquiry, and observation.

Rhythm, Reciprocity & Relationship
Explore three foundational practices for outdoor learning: finding rhythm and balance, developing reciprocal relationships with the natural world, and nurturing meaningful relationships among the natural world, with other humans, and ourselves.

The Practice of Sit Spots
Experience the simple practice of returning to a place regularly to slow down and observe, and develop a deeper sense of connection and belonging.

Nature Art
Engage creativity through natural materials and nature based art invitations that encourage observation, imagination, and expression.

Guided Hike or Garden Walk
Explore the landscape through a guided, sensory-rich walk designed to cultivate curiosity, awareness, and a deeper relationship with place.

Movement & Restoration
The day will include a practice such as yoga, sound healing, or Tai Chi to explore movement, grounding, and restoration in an outdoor setting.

Outdoor Learning Activities
Participate in a variety of hands-on activities that can be adapted for different ages, settings, seasons, and learning goals.

A Day of Learning, Experiencing & Reflecting
Throughout the retreat, participants will have opportunities to experience outdoor learning rather than simply talk about it. Time will be woven between conversation, hands-on activities, movement, quiet observation, reflection, and time on the land.

The day will close with an invitation to reflect and integrate: What did you notice? What shifted? What might you bring back to your learners? And how might you continue to cultivate a relationship with the land in your own practice?