Equip your students with the theoretical and practical knowledge to thrive outdoors in natural learning environments.

Early Years Learning in Australian Natural Environments provides pre-service and practising teachers with the knowledge and skills to connect children with nature through outdoor play and learning. Rich with contemporary theory, research, practical guidance and provocations, this text addresses a range of topics related to Immersive Nature Play Programs in the early years. These include the benefits of learning in natural spaces, First Nations People’s perspectives, understandings about pedagogical interactions and policies, and education for sustainability and risk management.

Written by an experienced team of Australian authors, this book will support pre-service teachers in developing a deep understanding of how nature-based play and learning can promote children’s wellbeing and development.

KEY FEATURES

• Addresses specific local perspectives about Immersive Nature Play Programs within Australian landscapes and early years’ contexts.
• Includes close links to the Australian Early Years Learning Framework and the National Quality Standard.
• Supports learning with illustrative case studies, chapter summaries, conclusions and reflective questions.
• Provides practical advice on how pre-service teachers can start their Immersive Nature Play Program journey, as well as prompts for deeper reflection about values and pedagogies.
• Emphasises the importance of early years educators in contributing to the wellbeing, health, learning and development of young children.
• Develops awareness of First Nations People’s perspectives and opportunities for reconciliation through Immersive Nature Play Programs.
• Focuses on sustainability and community relationships as integral to Immersive Nature Play Programs.