The Nanny Collection encourages all childcare providers to always continue educating themselves through the use of professional development opportunities, professional volunteerism, and portfolio building experiences. Below is an no-cost opportunity being offered by an external, award winning organization that we are proud to support.
ChildCare Education Institute® (CCEI), an online child care training provider dedicated exclusively to the early care and education workforce, offers CUR118: Outdoor STEM Activities and Project-Based Learning as a no-cost trial course to new CCEI users May 1-31, 2022.
Many studies document the benefits of spending time outdoors. Some studies cite benefits ranging from reduced stress to improved memory and immunity. Other studies show that spending time outdoors leads to better mental health and vision. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tells us that the rate of childhood obesity has doubled in the last 30 years. The increased use of technology and television viewing are 2 of the major barriers to participating in outdoor activities. In addition, a recent study conducted by the National Recreation and Park Association found that:
Spending 20 to 30 minutes outside reduces stress levels.
58% of U.S. adults spend more than 30 minutes outdoors daily.
Only 1 in 3 U.S. adults spend more than an hour outdoors daily.
Early childhood educators are uniquely positioned to create a balance between indoor and outdoor experiences. Teachers can begin to prepare children for the jobs of the future by inspiring curiosity and instilling a love of learning. At the same time, they have the opportunity to help children establish healthy habits and an appreciation of the great outdoors.
This course explores how teachers can enhance outdoor learning experiences by integrating STEM activities and project based learning. The course provides a wide variety of project ideas that are sure to engage and fascinate young learners.
“Through this course, ECE professionals will learn ways that they can explore outdoor STEAM-related activities using a project based approach as a way to promote the development of important 21st-century skills,” says Maria C. Taylor, President and CEO of CCEI. “STEM represents a large portion of the career opportunities that today′s children will grow up to pursue.”
For more information, visit www.cceionline.edu or call 1.800.499.9907, prompt 3, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. EDT
ChildCare Education Institute, LLC
Love the opportunity! ChildCare Institute is such a helpful resource!