Take a Child Outside Week

"Play in Nature"
Linda Kinney, North Carolina Zoo

• Thursday, September 29, 2016 – 1:00 pm–3:30 pm

Take a Child Outside week runs annually from September 24 to September 30. The week is an initiative of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences with the goal of "helping children across the country develop a better understanding and appreciation of the environment in which they live."

Educator/Parent Workshop – Play in Nature

Playful, inspired, engaged adults can expand children's potential to explore and experience nature through play!

Playful Pedagogy's play training workshops help adults explore the importance of play in children's lives and the art and science of supporting children's play outdoors. Participants learn how play engages the brain and impacts well-being while exploring creative approaches to planning for play.

This small group, lecture/discussion/hands-on format workshop emphasizes play in nature and how to take advantage of the many affordances provided by the natural world. Participants will "play with" aspects of nature and play and explore their combined application in outdoor play and learning environments. This workshop will also address strategies for incorporating play outside into programs, curriculum, and everyday life.

The afternoon workshop specifically focuses on methods of enhancing, encouraging, and guiding children's exploration and discovery of the outdoor environment. Participants will explore their relationship with the outdoors while reconnecting with their playful nature. Inspired adults can have a huge impact on children's ability to begin, continue or expand their outdoor exploration and play.

Join us as we playfully explore the world around us! Wear comfortable clothing and be prepared to spend time in the gardens.

Snack and workshop materials are included in the registration fee. Bring your own water bottle.

About Linda

For the past seventeen years, Linda Kinney has worked in the Education Division at the North Carolina Zoo. Linda manages the Zoo's School Outreach, Summer Camps, and Nature Play programs. She also leads professional development trainings for educators.

Linda recently received her M.A. in play and playwork from the University of Gloucestershire in England and is utilizing the playwork degree to supplement her work on approaches to facilitating play as a means of support for professionals who encourage children and young people 's opportunities to play outdoors. Linda also partners with regional and national communities to encourage and support children and their families' engagement with nature in their local neighborhoods. Linda is committed to advocating for playing children and can often be found playing outside.

For more about Linda and Playful Pedagogy check out Playful Pedagogy at the NC Zoo.

Age

Parents, educators, grandparents, volunteers, child care workers, any adult interested in learning about playing outside!

Cost

$35.00 per member, $45.00 per nonmember.

Registration

Only 20 spots are available. Register early to save your spot.

Cancellation

Although we understand that unexpected things happen, cancellations made less than 48 hours prior to event will not receive a refund.

Location

The Yurt at the JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State University, 4115 Beryl Road, Raleigh, North Carolina.

Directions

Need directions? Click here.

Parking

Free parking is available at the JC Raulston Arboretum and along Beryl Road.

Questions

Please contact Elizabeth Overcash, children's program coordinator, at elizabeth_overcash@ncsu.edu or (919) 513-7011.