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204: Nature in the Classroom with Ernesto Rodriguez: Creating Calmer, More Focused Learning Spaces
Description
Nature in the Classroom with Ernesto Rodriguez: Creating Calmer, More Focused Learning Spaces
What if supporting children's focus, well-being, and learning could begin with the spaces where they spend their day?
In this episode, Victoria Hackett sits down with Ernesto Rodriguez, founder of Nature in the Classroom, to explore how nature-inspired learning environments can help children feel calmer, more engaged, and better able to learn. Drawing on his background in school psychology, photography, and environmental education, Ernesto shares the story behind his innovative work bringing tree canopy imagery into schools and classrooms.
Together, they discuss the science behind our connection to nature, the role of biophilic design in education, and why creating restorative learning environments matters now more than ever.
Whether you're a classroom teacher, outdoor educator, school leader, or parent, this conversation offers practical ideas and fresh inspiration for bringing more nature into children's daily lives.
In This Episode:
- The story behind Nature in the Classroom
- Why our brains respond so strongly to nature
- The research connecting nature and attention
- How classroom environments influence learning and behavior
- What teachers and students experience after nature-inspired transformations
- The relationship between indoor environments and outdoor learning
- Simple ways educators can bring more nature into their classrooms
- Why nature connection is essential for children's well-being
About Ernesto Rodriguez:
Ernesto Rodriguez is the founder of Nature in the Classroom, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing the benefits of nature into schools through immersive tree canopy installations and nature-inspired learning environments. His work combines school psychology, photography, and environmental education to help create spaces where children can thrive.
Resources:
Connect with Victoria:
For more conversations about outdoor learning, nature-based education, and raising connected, curious children, subscribe to The Outdoor Classrooms Podcast and share this episode with a fellow educator.
Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com
Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com
Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links:
🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page)