Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/celebrating-mother-nature/5018218/
Early experiences with the natural world have been positively linked to the sense of wonder.This way of knowing, if recognized and honored, can serve as a life-long source
of joy and enrichment.
Ruth A. Wilson, “The Wonders of Nature: Honoring Children’s Ways of Knowing”
Our cover and this 182nd issue of Exchange are dedicated to Mother Nature. As we prepare for the Working Forum on Nature Education (July 21-23, Nebraska City, Nebraska), we are focused on the precarious beauty and providence of our planet. Children, young children, babies need experiences in the natural world. If they do not first learn to love Earth, they will be ill prepared to save it for their own children and grandchildren. They need to be outdoors in the sunshine and the rain. They need to squeeze mud between their toes and nurture seedlings. They need to feel the wind and find peace. They need to get dirty.
We, the adults in their lives, must make sure children have opportunities to observe and explore their natural world �" this is our critical responsibility as educators and parents. But we have to be authentic. Our words must match our commitment and our own way of being. Timoti Karetu and ...