The Daily Dirt
Your source of real-world inspiration and practical tips on sharing the daily wonders of the natural world with young children in our care.

Young girl looks through magnifier

[Photo credit: Abby Anderson]

Young boy watering plants with watering can

[Photo credit: Hattie Kingsley]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hello from Dimensions Education Programs in Lincoln, Nebraska, where nature and learning go hand in hand. We are part of Dimensions Educational Research Foundation, home of the Nature Explore Program. Our three Nature Explore Classrooms, designed for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, are vibrant hubs of activity throughout the year.

Our dedicated staff are continually inspired by the endless play opportunities and discoveries that unfold in our outdoor spaces. Even during the frosty Nebraska winters, children thrive in our nature-rich environments, fostering a deep connection with the natural world.

Being part of the Certified Nature Explore Classroom Network is a privilege that enriches our program. We cherish the insights and inspiration gained from other outstanding initiatives within this network, continually enhancing our own practices. We love being a part of this community, where we learn so much from reading about other wonderful programs.

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Tips from Dimensions Education Programs

  1. Embrace the saying, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.” Make sure children have the right gear to fully enjoy their outdoor experiences. Families can contribute by providing clothing and accessories while creating a hearty collection of extra items for children to borrow when needed.
  2. Encourage children to take an active role in caring for their  Nature Explore Classroom. This fosters a sense of responsibility and ownership and gives them valuable hands-on learning opportunities. Equip the space with small watering cans for them to use when watering plants, trees, and gardens, as well as child-sized rakes for smoothing mulch or raking leaves.
  3. Inspire children to engage in close observation. Offer a variety of tools, such as magnifying glasses, binoculars, and stand magnifiers.

Learn more about Dimensions Education Programs and other Certified Nature Explore Outdoor Classrooms: certified.natureexplore.org/dimensions

LaRinda Hall is the Director of Education Programs at Dimensions Education
Programs in Lincoln, NE. With a passion for early childhood education, LaRinda is involved in various initiatives to inspire joy and wonder in children, educators, and communities. She is dedicated to fostering a heart-centered approach to learning and development. LaRinda holds a Bachelor’s degree in Multidisciplinary Studies focusing on Education and a Master’s
in Curriculum and Instruction from Doane University. Under her leadership, Dimensions Education Programs continues to thrive as a division of the Dimensions Educational Research Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

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