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Welcome to Nature Inspired Teacher!

At Nature Inspired Teacher, we believe that the natural world is the best classroom for young children. Whether you are just beginning your journey or looking to deepen your connection with nature based education, we are here to support you every step of the way.

FREE START UP GUIDE

OUR MISSION

Our mission is to empower early childhood educators with the tools and inspiration they need to integrate nature into their teaching practices, both indoors and outdoors.  By providing the practical resources and support needed into everyday teaching, we facilitate the educator's journey of bringing nature into early childhood classrooms.

We believe that fostering a deep connection with the natural world enriches children's learning experiences, promotes their well-being, and ignites their curiosity and creativity.  We also believe that teachers feel greater joy and peace in their teaching when shifting to a nature inspired teaching practice. 

OUR PHILOSOPHY

We are guided by the belief that nature is an unparalleled teacher and nurtures children’s physical, emotional, and intellectual development while fostering a lifelong appreciation for the environment.  Nature brings out the wonder and curiosity in children, but sadly many children have limited opportunities to connect with the natural world.  

Our focus is to help teachers find practical, low cost ways to bring nature into the lives of the children by bringing the natural world indoors and by creating outdoor classrooms that make teaching outside easy.

OUR MISSION

Our mission is to empower early childhood educators with the tools and inspiration they need to integrate nature into their teaching practices, both indoors and outdoors.  By providing the practical resources and support needed into everyday teaching, we facilitate the educator's journey of bringing nature into early childhood classrooms.

We believe that fostering a deep connection with the natural world enriches children's learning experiences, promotes their well-being, and ignites their curiosity and creativity.  We also believe that teachers feel greater joy and peace in their teaching when shifting to a nature inspired teaching practice. 

OUR PHILOSOPHY

We are guided by the belief that nature is an unparalleled teacher and nurtures children’s physical, emotional, and intellectual development while fostering a lifelong appreciation for the environment.  Nature brings out the wonder and curiosity in children, but sadly many children have limited opportunities to connect with the natural world.  

Our focus is to help teachers find practical, low cost ways to bring nature into the lives of the children by bringing the natural world indoors and by creating outdoor classrooms that make teaching outside easy.

Nature Inspired Teacher Offerings

Professional learning experiences for educators who want to bring more nature and wonder into their teaching.

Nature Inspired Teacher Yearlong Certification 

This unique professional development opportunity helps early educators meaningfully incorporate nature-based learning into their curriculum throughout the year.

The program is fully online and includes live synchronous monthly calls, pre-recorded content, and downloadable resources housed in the student dashboard. Participants will explore seasonal curriculum planning, outdoor learning, classroom environments, documentation, family engagement, and practical ways to bring more nature into everyday teaching.

Educators who complete the program will earn a certificate for 48 hours of professional development.

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Professional Development

We offer hands-on professional development workshops and training sessions designed to help educators create engaging outdoor classrooms, develop nature-based curriculum, and align their teaching with early learning standards.

Sessions are available virtually and in person and provide practical strategies educators can use right away. Each training is designed to support reflection, inspire fresh ideas, and foster a community of like-minded educators committed to bringing nature into children’s everyday learning experiences.

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Nature Based College Courses

 Throughout the year, April Zajko, M.Ed., founder of Nature Inspired Teacher, offers college courses for educators who want to deepen their understanding of nature-based teaching and confidently integrate these practices into their classrooms.

Courses are available for undergraduate or graduate credit through Vermont State University's Center for Schools and are designed to combine research, reflection, and practical application. Participants leave with new knowledge, ready-to-use strategies, and a clear plan for bringing nature-inspired learning into their programs.

Announcements about upcoming courses are shared through our newsletter. Join our mailing list to be among the first to hear when new courses are announced.

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Teacher Resource Library

Our extensive library continues to grow and includes video tutorials, lesson plans, activity guides, and more.  These resources are designed to help educators at all levels bring the benefits of nature inspired learning to their students.

Access to the Nature Inspired Teacher Resource Library is a perk of being part of our Nature Inspired Teacher Yearlong Certification program.

Free Resources

Facebook Community

We believe in the power of community. Our free private Facebook group, Nature Inspired Teacher, helps us connect educators who share a passion for nature based teaching, providing a space to post ideas, ask questions, share experiences, and get support. Together, we can inspire and learn from one another. 

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Free Start Up Guide

Our Nature Inspired Teacher Start Up Guide is the perfect resource to help you get started! This comprehensive guide provides practical tips, activity ideas, and essential information to seamlessly integrate nature-based education into your teaching practice. Sign up now to receive your free guide.

GET IT HERE

Weekly Newsletter

Join our email list to receive “Nature Inspired News” which is our free weekly newsletter, packed with fresh ideas, tips, and resources for integrating nature into your teaching. Stay inspired and connected with a community of educators dedicated to fostering a love of nature in early childhood education.

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MEET OUR FOUNDER

April Zajko, M.Ed.

April Zajko, M.Ed., founder of Nature Inspired Teacher, is an experienced early childhood educator who brings more than 25 years of classroom, leadership, and professional development experience to her work with fellow educators.

Her professional learning opportunities are grounded in real classroom practice and designed to help educators feel confident, inspired, and prepared to bring more nature-based learning into children’s everyday experiences.

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Ready to transform your teaching and inspire your children?

Grab a free copy of the Nature Inspired Teacher Start Up Guide

This free resource will help support you on your own Nature Inspired Teacher journey.  Become part of a movement to reconnect children to nature and bring the joy and wonder of nature into your teaching. Once you sign up you can receive our weekly newsletter to receive the latest updates, tips, and exclusive content straight to your inbox.

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Nature Inspired Teacher

Embracing nature. Empowering educators. Enriching childhood.