The Nature Explore Classroom at
Little Bit of Sunshine Nature Learning Academy
I am proud of my growth as an early childhood educator and of the intentional learning environment I have created at Little Bit of Sunshine Nature Learning Academy. My work is guided by the belief that children learn through play, connection, and meaningful experiences with nature, supported by ongoing reflection and professional growth.
My outdoor classroom is intentionally designed to support child-led, hands-on learning. The environment invites children to follow their interests, ask questions, take appropriate risks, and learn at their own pace. Each thoughtfully prepared area encourages independence, curiosity, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging.
Nature is not an add-on in my program; it is woven into the daily rhythm of learning. Children spend their days interacting with grass, trees, gardens, loose parts, and seasonal materials. These experiences strengthen bodies, spark curiosity, and promote problem-solving and resilience.
Learning is guided by children’s interests rather than rigid schedules or predetermined outcomes. I intentionally prepare the environment, observe closely, and respond thoughtfully—trusting children, trusting play, and honoring discovery. This approach allows children to take ownership of their learning while feeling supported and respected.
My outdoor classroom is located within a licensed family home childcare setting in Delaware, blending the comfort of home with intentional, high-quality nature-based education. This model provides a safe, nurturing environment where children can confidently engage with the natural world.
The outdoor classroom is peaceful, calm, and grounding, supporting children’s emotional well-being. As children explore grassy areas, flowering plants, trees, and thoughtfully designed learning zones, they build social skills, self-regulation, and creativity. Open-ended materials encourage inquiry, imagination, and independence.
Music is an important part of the classroom experience and aligns naturally with nature-based principles. Children engage daily in singing, movement, rhythm, and listening, inspired by patterns found in nature such as birdsong, wind, rain, and seasonal rhythms. A dedicated music teacher visits monthly to deepen exploration and support self-expression and social-emotional development.
Gardening is essential to my program. Through planting, watering, and caring for teaching gardens, children learn responsibility, patience, and environmental stewardship. These experiences build confidence, life skills, and respect for nature.
My classroom evolves with the children and the seasons. Planned expansion of the forest area and the addition of a high tunnel greenhouse will support hands-on science learning, teamwork, and year-round outdoor education.
My commitment to quality early childhood education is reflected in my professional achievements. I earned my Family Child Care CDA in 2023, was Runner-Up for Delaware Early Childhood Educator of the Year in 2024, and was named Delaware Early Childhood Educator of the Year in 2025. My program also earned Hygge for the Early Years Accreditation.
At Little Bit of Sunshine Nature Learning Academy, children are confident, engaged, and joyful learners. Families value the sense of security, belonging, and connection their children experience. Through meaningful outdoor play and exploration, children leave with strong relationships, confidence, and a lasting connection to nature that supports their growth far beyond early childhood.
