Teach Outdoors: Top Tips for Getting Outside

Welcome to the first episode of Season 2! What used to be called Mentoring Nature Connections is now called Teach Outdoors. Thank you to everyone who completed the survey on how I can best tailor this podcast to your needs. I'm excited to continue along this journey with you!Today I give a quick little introduction on who I am, as there are many new followers here with us! I grew up in British Columbia, Canada, and still live here with my husband, two young toddlers and energetic dog. I am the author of the bestselling children's picture book, Me and My Sit Spot, and a full time elementary school teacher.Teaching outdoors can often be a challenging experience, and it's important to remember that not everything will go according to plan. The most common question I get from teachers is "How can I get my students to listen better outside?" They feel frustrated with the unruly behaviours that their students are displaying. My simple answer: be consistent with routines and expectations.  Here are my top 4 tips:Tip #1: Establish Clear Expectations. What can they do? What should they avoid doing? What does it look like and sound like? What happens when these expectations are not met? I highly recommend reviewing these expectations indoors, before going outside.Tip #2: Use Visuals.  This helps all learners remember what is expected of them (I even have mine printed out small and hang them on a lanyard around my neck for easy access!).Tip #3: Create a Routine. Our days look like: Nature walk, instructional activity, closure activity. The predictability helps the students feel more comfortable. Tip #4: Be Consistent. There is nothing more confusing to a student when one day they can play with a stick and the next day they can't. Don't forget to follow and subscribe to the podcast and follow @teachoutdoors.ca on Instagram. Check out the new website www.teachoutdoors.ca to subscribe to the newsletter for upcoming free resources. Share your best tips for creating consistent routines and expectations on Instagram and remember to tag @teachoutdoors.ca