As a provider of early childhood education in a variety of settings and philosophical modalities, I have witnessed the many ways in which children learn and thrive. Through keen observation of play, I see that children find all they need in an outdoor setting as they delve into the magic of mud and water, encounter the many beings in nature, and adapt to the seasonal shifts of the environment. As young children direct themselves through these experiences, they engage in meaningful learning about each other and the world that surrounds them. 

Now the grateful co-owner and operator of a small, completely outdoor early childhood program in Santa Rosa, California called Roots to Branches, I am amazed at the myriad ways in which the group of children grow together: forming strong social connections and the ability to communicate; the emergence of empathy and kindness as they observe and care for living creatures; creating science and math foundations through the collection of natural materials; developing risk assessment and competence through playing in a geographically diverse location; emotionally regulating while having the freedom to be held in the openness of nature; making huge physical leaps as they increase skills such as balance and strength. http://www.rootstobranches.com

As I watch children grow and learn in the outdoor environment, I simultaneously reflect upon my own want and need to deepen my connection to nature and broaden my knowledge of local ecology. I became a UC California Naturalist in spring 2021, and I am currentlly pursuing my Environmental Educator Certification through the California Association for Outdoor and Environmental Education. I further value nonformal learning through volunteering for local environmental-based organizations, reading about environmental practices and sustainability, and building my awareness of the traditional practices and wisdom of the indigenous community.  I value the simple experience of spending time in nature and taking quiet time to observe my surroundings.