EP08 Farmer Ann On Why Outdoor Education Matters More Than Ever

Outdoor education fosters curiosity and hands-on learning, allowing children to explore nature and connect with food systems. The program emphasizes experiential learning, integrating classroom concepts with real-world applications, and encourages freedom of exploration. Collaboration with local schools enhances the curriculum, making learning relevant and engaging, while the organization seeks to expand its reach to more children through community support and funding.Chapter Markers0:00 – Building the ProgramStarting from scratch, freedom to create curriculum, and unique opportunities compared to public schools.2:15 – Partnership with Amagansett SchoolWeekly visits, integration with classroom learning, and the farm-to-school connection.4:40 – Engaging Kids on the Farm“Mat chat,” themes, hands-on herb activities, and experiential learning.7:05 – Curriculum in ActionPhenology, worms, soil, compost stew, and kids’ fascination with nature.9:30 – Worm Castings & Farm StoriesMemories from Quail Hill, worm castings as “black gold,” and why kids love soil and poop stories.12:10 – Looking Ahead: Fall SeasonPlans for cooking, soups, sauces, herbs, and preserving the harvest.14:00 – Simple Recipes with KidsTomato sauce and soup as easy ways to introduce cooking and flavor.16:20 – Impact of Food EducationAmber Waves’ unique role, teaching kids from toddlers to teens, and growing lifelong food citizens.19:00 – Freedom & ExplorationLetting children follow curiosity, connect with nature, and learn through rhythm and seasonality.21:15 – Farm as a Living ClassroomHow all sciences—physics, chemistry, math, literature—come alive on the farm.23:40 – Funding & SupportNonprofit model, scholarships, donors, and opportunities for schools and foundations.26:00 – Vision for the FutureEvery school connected to a farm, feeding and educating communities, and scaling the dream.🌾 Learn More & Get Involved📍 Visit us: 367 Main Street, Amagansett, NY or 64 Park Place, East Hampton👩‍🌾 Apply for our Farm Apprenticeship Program📬 Stay in the loop: Sign Up For Updates💚 Support our mission: Explore Ways to Give