About this Nature-Based Training

Plan your adventure in Helena, Montana for a very special two-day teacher training! This training will awaken your senses, kindle curiosity, and spark more ideas for outdoor learning with young children. 

This retreat brings together experts in the field of nature-based early learning to share ideas and practices, with a variety of workshops to choose from. ANBE will provide a professional development certificate at the conclusion of the event. Please dress for the weather, as most of this training takes place outdoors, rain or shine. Lite refreshments on Friday evening with keynote speaker; coffee/tea with lite breakfast and lunch are included on Saturday, but remember your canteen for drinks throughout the day. 

Note: We strive for zero waste during our training events; please bring your canteen for drinks.

Click the "register" button for full workshop descriptions, presenter bios, and pricing!

Who Should Attend?

This training is ideal for educators, caregivers, and others working with young children ages 2 to 8. Our participants work in all kinds of settings, from nature-based schools and forest kindergartens to public schools, traditional preschools, HeadStart programs, childcare centers, daycare, and more. 

Workshop Descriptions

Loose Parts and Provocations

with Meghan Halsey

Join us for an engaging session focused on nature-based education and the innovative use of loose parts! Discover how to create effective provocations that inspire exploration and creativity among students using natural materials. We’ll guide you through key steps, including identifying learning objectives, selecting appropriate loose parts, creating inviting outdoor spaces, and facilitating meaningful experiences. Learn to document and reflect on student interactions to deepen their connection to the natural world. Equip yourself with practical tools to enhance your teaching practice and ignite curiosity in your students through hands-on, nature-inspired learning!

Traditional Native American Games

with Mike Jetty

Participants in this session will have an opportunity to play some traditional Native American games. For thousands of years Indigenous peoples throughout the Americas played different types of games that taught children valuable lifelong skills and lessons. These games have been revitalized and now students across Montana have the opportunity to experience and play tribal specific games - they get to have fun and learn about tribal traditions at the same time.

The Essential Practice of Risky Play

with Jennifer Walker

Discover how to support children’s development through the exciting and essential practice of risky play, whether you’re a seasoned outdoor educator or new to the field. This session welcomes all perspectives, offering practical strategies to balance safety with exploration, empowering children to build resilience, creativity, and confidence. Learn how to distinguish risks from hazards, adapt activities for diverse needs, and facilitate meaningful outdoor experiences for every child. Whether you’re confident or cautious about risky play, this session will provide tools and inspiration to enhance your outdoor education practice.

Forest Bathing

with Deborah Goslin

Experience and learn how Forest Bathing can be a valuable tool for stress release and boosting the immune system. By moving very slowly in the forest with all the senses open, this this evidence-based wellness practice can ease anxiety and improve sense of well-being in all ages. Also called Forest Therapy or Shinrin-yoku as its called in Japan, meaning "taking in the forest atmosphere".

Have questions? Email us at programs@anbe.org. Please note that all participants are required to complete this waiver during registration. Our refund policies are found here as well.