Recommended Reading for Educators and Professionals in Outdoor Learning
Saplings Outdoor Program
Jun 17
3 min read
Whether you're new to outdoor education or have years of experience in early childhood settings, continuing to deepen your knowledge through reading can help you stay grounded, inspired, and connected to best practices. At Saplings, we believe in lifelong learning, and these books and articles have shaped much of how we think about play, place, and pedagogy.
Below is a curated list of recommended books, articles, and resources for educators, program leaders, and early years professionals who want to explore nature-based learning, child development, and alternative education models more deeply.
Outdoor Learning and Nature-Based Practice
The Last Child in the Woods By Richard Louv (2005)
A foundational text that introduced the concept of “nature-deficit disorder” and launched a movement to reconnect children with the natural world. This book explores how nature impacts emotional and physical well-being, creativity, and attention.
Nature Kindergartens and Forest School By Claire Warden (2012)
An overview of outdoor learning philosophy and practice, with real-life examples and practical strategies. Warden blends theory with accessible approaches rooted in child-led exploration.
Potential of a Puddle By Claire Warden (2012)
A reflective resource that explores the planning, documentation, and inquiry-based practice that supports outdoor play and learning. A useful companion for educators designing their own nature-based curriculum.
Forest Kindergartens: The Cedarsong Way By Erin K. Kenny (2013)
Kenny outlines her approach to forest kindergarten, including the principles of flow learning, child-led discovery, and nature immersion. A practical and philosophical guide rooted in the Cedarsong model.
Coyote’s Guide to Connecting with Nature By Jon Young, Ellen Haas, and Evan McGown (2010)
Blending Indigenous knowledge systems with mentorship models, this book introduces deep nature connection practices through storytelling, questioning, and observation-based learning.
Growing Up Wild: Exploring Nature with Young Children By The Council for Environmental Education (2009)
A resource full of activity ideas and nature-based provocations designed for educators of children ages 3–7. Organized by theme, it supports curriculum planning and playful learning outdoors.
Play, Imagination, and Child Development
A Child’s Work: The Importance of Fantasy Play By Vivian Gussin Paley (2004)
Paley, a kindergarten teacher and storyteller, explores the vital role of fantasy and storytelling in child development. A rich and personal reflection on how children make meaning through play.
Why Our Kids Need Play Now More Than Ever By Sarah Goodyear
A recent article examining the current decline in free play and why it’s essential for children’s mental health, resilience, and development. Useful for educators advocating for unstructured outdoor time.
Place-Based and Alternative Education Models
Place-Based Education: Connecting Classrooms and Communities By David Sobel (2004)
Sobel introduces the concept of learning rooted in the local environment and community. This book is essential for educators who want to connect curriculum to place and foster stewardship.
Authentic Childhood: Experiencing Reggio Emilia in the Classroom By Susan Fraser (2011)
While not strictly nature-based, this book explores Reggio inspired principles including emergent curriculum, respect for the child, and documentation. Valuable for any educator developing reflective practice.
Your Big Backyard Published by the National Wildlife Federation
A children’s nature magazine that can also inspire educators with seasonal topics, animal profiles, and nature games. Though designed for children, it offers engaging ideas for early years programming.
A practical introduction to first aid principles in remote settings, including injury prevention, treatment of common outdoor incidents, and environmental hazards. While not a substitute for certification, this guide is a useful starting point for outdoor educators seeking foundational knowledge.
A kid-friendly program developed by the Canadian Red Cross to help children understand basic home safety, injury prevention, and how to respond to emergencies. Educators can use this as a guide when supporting children in developing safety awareness.
Though not a book, this resource provides excellent tips for outdoor safety, including gear checklists, trip planning, and emergency preparedness—useful for educators planning excursions or forest school sessions.
Covers how to prepare for safe adventures in outdoor environments, including weather-related risks, wildlife encounters, and best practices for avoiding injury or getting lost.
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