This session invites parents and educators to reimagine how we design learning spaces, starting with the outdoors. Through playful, hands-on examples and a deep respect for a child’s natural curiosity, Rusty Keeler offers inspiration and practical tools for making nature a vibrant and consistent part of early childhood.
Participants will explore how to invite sensory exploration, wonder, and self-expression through simple, nature-based setups that work in any environment, whether that’s a backyard, balcony, or park.
By the end of this session, participants will:
- Understand why sensory-rich nature play is critical for early brain and body development
- Discover creative, accessible ways to bring natural elements into daily routines and play
- Learn how to design spaces that spark joy, movement, and exploration — without needing Pinterest-worthy perfection
- Gain confidence in offering “yes” spaces outdoors that are both safe and open-ended
- Feel inspired to follow the child’s lead while deepening connection through outdoor experiences
In this video
Rusty Keeler's talk is full of examples for parents and preschool teachers who want children outside more and don't know where to start. They range from sunflower houses and willow huts to mud kitchens and a corner where children are allowed to dig. You'll see a tidy preschool yard with apple trees next to a messy backyard that belongs to the children. Another part shows playground makeovers and community build days.
Chapters
- 0:00 Rusty Keeler and the motto dream big, start small
- 4:35 Sunflowers, seasons, mud and outdoor play instead of screens
- 11:48 Playground makeovers and why to plant a tree now
- 15:53 Sunflower houses, willow huts, free logs and mud kitchens
- 22:03 Saying yes to a dig spot and holding community build days
- 25:13 A tidy preschool yard with loose parts and apple trees
- 29:41 A messy backyard that belongs to the children
