We are excited to share that Discover the Forest, an early childhood outdoor learning initiative of the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE), has launched with a reimagined website and new resources for families and early childhood educators.

Developed through research, collaboration with experts, and direct input from educators and caregivers, Discover the Forest resources are designed to complement existing programs and support real-world practice across diverse early learning settings.

Whether you’re a parent heading to the neighborhood park, an early childhood educator building outdoor learning into your routine, or an environmental educator seeking fresh ideas, the website offers practical tools, expert advice, and plenty of inspiration.

Here’s a quick tour of what you’ll find on the website:

Things to Do

The Things to Do section is packed with ideas and inspiration for getting outdoors. 

You’ll find:

• Outcomes-aligned activities developed in partnership with Project Learning Tree, that can be done in a backyard, schoolyard, park, or forest
• Short video demos of learning in action, showcasing real early learning programs
• Extended learning ideas to deepen curiosity and keep the exploration going
• A library of 70+ “Fast & Fun” activities, filterable by age, setting, mood, and more!

Explore Things to Do

Tips & Tools

We know getting outside isn’t always as simple as opening the door. The Tips & Tools section addresses common challenges with encouragement and practical advice.

You’ll find guidance on:

• Navigating different weather conditions
• Getting outdoors with very young children
• Letting children’s interests guide learning
• Being inclusive of children with disabilities
• Making outdoor learning feel doable within busy schedules

Explore Tips & Tools 

Why Nature Matters

Why prioritize time outdoors? The Why Nature Matters section brings together research-backed information about the benefits of outdoor play and learning for young children and the adults in their lives.

Content is organized by developmental area:

• Growing Minds, Attentive Learners (Cognitive)
• Kinder, Calmer Kids (Social-Emotional)
• Curious Explorers with Caring Hearts (Environmental Literacy)
• Active Children, Healthy Habits (Physical)
• Confident Communicators (Language)

Grounded in research and written in accessible language, this section connects everyday outdoor experiences to powerful developmental outcomes. It’s a helpful resource for educators advocating for outdoor learning and for families who want to understand the “why” behind the play.

Explore Why Nature Matters 

More to Explore

The More to Explore section connects families and educators to public lands across the country, including resources from the U.S. Forest Service and information about visiting nearby National Forests. 

You’ll also find ways to build stewardship habits in age-appropriate ways, helping children develop a sense of care and responsibility for the natural world.

Together with the Natural Start Alliance, these resources advance NAAEE’s mission of creating a healthier and more sustainable future for all, starting with our youngest learners. 

We invite you to explore the reimagined Discover the Forest and consider how these tools might support your work with young children and families.

Learn more at DiscoverTheForest.org

Explore the Website