In this episode of the ECE Classroom Podcast, host Susie Beghin interviews Rusty Keeler, a natural playscape designer and advocate for nature play. They discuss the importance of nature play for children's development and how to incorporate nature into outdoor play spaces.
Rusty emphasizes the need for small steps, such as adding planter boxes or loose parts, to create a more natural environment. They also touch on the concept of risky play and the benefits it offers. But before you acquire materials to transform your outdoor space, Rusty suggests the most important thing to do is to evaluate what you will allow - what you say "yes" to!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:50 The Importance of Nature Play
05:00 Incorporating Nature into Outdoor Play Spaces
12:05 Must-have Play Equipment to Improve Outdoor Spaces
16:03 What Loose Parts to Add to Outdoor Spaces
19:34 Addressing Concerns about Messy Play and Risky Play
28:55 Susie’s Reflection and Takeaways About Nature Play and Improving Outdoor Play Spaces
About Rusty Keeler
Rusty Keeler is a designer, author, and speaker with a unique sensitivity to the sights, sounds and experiences of childhood. For over 30 years Rusty has traveled the world designing natural outdoor play environments and speaking about the benefits and beauty of saying “yes” to children’s play. Creating a sense of place and playful connections to the natural world are at the heart of Rusty’s design work. Described as a cross between Mr Rogers and Jerry Garcia, Rusty is the author of multiple books on
play and playscapes including his new book Adventures in
Risky Play: What is Your Yes? (Exchange Press: 2020)
Rusty is a frequent keynote speaker and presenter at
conferences, communities, and colleges worldwide — but he also likes being home enjoying a creative life with his family in his backyard and the creeks and gorges of Ithaca, NY.
Free OUTDOOR LOOSE PARTS Guide
https://rustykeeler.com/loosepartslistfd/
@rusty_keeler_designs
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b
License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA
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