Term
Spring 2026
Capstone
Capstone Project
Degree Name
MAED: NSEE
Facilitator(s)
Jennifer Carlson
Content Expert
Jenny Hanlon
Abstract
Many early childhood educators in Minnesota are expanding outdoor and nature-based learning opportunities because of the positive developmental benefits they offer children. Time spent outdoors supports social, emotional, cognitive, and physical learning while promoting positive relationships with peers and the natural world. This capstone research found that implementing outdoor and nature-based learning requires more specialized training, safety precautions, equipment, planning, and preparation than typical indoor programming. However, much of the research focuses on preschool-aged children, although implementation with infants and toddlers presents additional challenges and requires specific supports. Therefore, this capstone project answered the question, “What can infant and toddler educators in Minnesota do to create meaningful outdoor and nature-based learning experiences that promote children's development and learning?” delivered through a practical implementation resource website designed specifically for early childhood educators working with infants and toddlers, offering guidance, strategies, and tools to support effective outdoor learning experiences.
Project Type
Website Creation
Keywords
Developmentally Appropriate Practice, Early Childhood, Environmental Studies, Teachers/ Teaching
Recommended Citation
Kazeck, Kelly, "Implementing Outdoor and Nature-Based Learning for Infants and Toddlers" (2026). School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Projects. 1189.
https://digitalcommons.hamline.edu/hse_cp/1189
Type
text
Publisher
Hamline University
Format
application/pdf
Source
School of Education Student Capstone Theses and Dissertations at Hamline University