Natural Start Alliance

Join us for the second Research Network meeting on Tuesday, May 12 at 12 PM ET / 9 AM PT. 🌱

Since our first meeting, we’ve been working to build out new opportunities for connection and collaboration. Think: a research-practice blog space, member directories for collaboration, presentation opportunities, and more 👀

Come be part of the conversation and help grow this network!

Join here: bit.ly/Research-Q2

Are you planning to attend the next Nature-Based Higher Education Coalition Quarterly Meeting? 🤩

This collaborative network brings together colleges and universities working to strengthen professional development and support research in nature-based early learning.

On May 18, Dr. Elizabeth Boileau (University of Minnesota Duluth) will share her course Cultural Perspectives and Equity in Childhood Nature Studies, including key topics, readings, and assignments. She’ll also discuss her experience developing and teaching the course, followed by a group conversation on how these ideas can be applied across institutions.

Join us! Register here: bit.ly/HigherEdQ2

Not all weather is “bad” weather, but being prepared makes all the difference. 🌦️

The Early Childhood Weather Guide is a simple, two-page resource to help early childhood programs make safe, confident decisions about taking children outside year-round.

Developed by the Natural Start Alliance in partnership with Dr. Aliza Yair, the guide:
• Breaks down common weather terms
• Shares practical tips to keep children safe and comfortable in sun, rain, and snow
• Includes a quick-reference guide for temperature-related illness and first aid

Whether you’re a teacher, director, or caregiver, this guide can help you say “yes” to outdoor time more often.

Take a look and share with your team: bit.ly/ECWeatherGuide

Screen-Free Week is a wonderful opportunity for individuals, families, and communities to come together and reconnect through screen-free, outdoor activities.

Learn more about this annual celebration at screenfree.org and explore resources to participate!

🌿 Are you attending the 2026 ANCA Annual Summit?

August 24–28 | Chippewa Nature Center | Midland, Michigan

Hosted by the Association of Nature Center Administrators (ANCA), this premier professional development event brings together directors and managers of nature centers and environmental organizations from across the country.

With a focus on leadership and management in this unique field, the Summit offers in-depth learning on operations, strategy, and organizational growth. Participants gain practical tools, fresh perspectives, and valuable connections to support their work.

Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned leader, you’ll leave equipped with the strategies and confidence to strengthen your organization and expand your impact.

Learn more at natctr.org/events/summit

Black educators in nature-based early childhood—this space is for you 🌿

Natural Start's Black Educator Network is a growing community centered on connection, mentorship, and uplifting Black voices in our field. 🌱 It’s a place to share resources, build relationships, and engage in professional development that speaks directly to your experiences.

Our next virtual gathering is this Thursday, April 23 at 6:30 PM ET 💻🗓️—and it’s the perfect entry point if you’ve been curious about getting involved. Whether you’re brand new to nature-based education or a seasoned educator, you’ll find a welcoming, supportive space to plug in.

We’re also building momentum toward our in-person meetup at the 2026 Nature-Based Early Learning Conference in San Antonio on June 24 🌞🌵, so now is a great time to get connected ahead of that gathering!

Come see what the network is all about!Tune into the virtual quarterly meeting 👉 bit.ly/BEN-Q2