Nature-Based Early Childhood Program Assessment & Guidebook
Anna Dutke, Heidi Faris, Jenny Hanlon, Megan Gessler, Sarah Sheldon, and Sheila Williams Ridge. Nature-Based Early Childhood Program Assessment & Guidebook. Minnesota Children and Nature Connection.
This self-assessment rating scale allows educators to evaluate how their program integrates nature into areas of practice: philosophy and policies; family engagement and community connections; and indoor and outdoor environments and practices. It is available as a free download.
This tool was created by six experienced nature educators working in Minnesota. Each educator has been involved in teaching and/or directing nature preschool programs. The wealth of their experience is evident in the make-up of the rating scale, providing a great opportunity for educators to integrate nature into their programs.