Show Notes:

Episode with Ade Hoffman – Nature Play All Day

Introduction:

Welcome to this week’s episode of the Big Hearted Podcast! I’m thrilled to chat with Ade Hoffman from Nature Play All Day in Maine, USA. Ade is a trailblazing educator who has taken the leap to create an outdoor, nature-based kindergarten that operates almost entirely outside, regardless of the weather. We delve into Ade’s unique journey, the challenges she faced, and the incredible impact her programme has on children.

Episode Highlights: Going Beyond Traditional Education Ade shares her journey of moving from a traditional kindergarten setting in Dallas, Texas, to founding Nature Play All Day in Maine. Frustrated with conventional education models that weren’t child-centred or developmentally appropriate, Ade felt compelled to create a space where children could learn and grow through nature.

Creating an Outdoor, Off-Grid Kindergarten

We discuss how Ade’s programme is fully off-grid, powered by solar energy, and possibly the first licensed off-grid nature-based childcare in Maine. The kindergarten immerses children in nature all year round, encouraging them to explore, play, and learn in a natural environment, even in the snow!

Navigating Regulations and Building Relationships

Ade talks about the process of getting her unique programme licensed and the importance of building positive relationships with licensing officials. By being proactive and maintaining open communication, she managed to create a supportive environment for her innovative approach.

The Benefits of Nature-Based Play

We explore the immense benefits of outdoor play and nature-based education. Ade explains how being in nature helps children build resilience, develop critical thinking skills, and foster a deep connection with the environment. She shares heartwarming stories of how children thrive when given the freedom to explore and learn outdoors.

Challenges and Rewards

Ade opens up about the challenges she has faced, from finding the right property to ensuring safety in an outdoor setting. Despite these hurdles, the joy and fulfilment she finds in seeing children grow and develop in such a unique environment make it all worthwhile.

Future Plans and Exciting Developments

I’m excited to visit Ade’s programme later this year to capture some amazing footage and share the beauty of her space with all of you. Ade and I also discuss the importance of having creative flexibility in education and the joy of stepping outside the norm to do what’s best for children. This conversation with Ade was truly inspiring and a reminder of the power of nature in education.

I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did. Don’t forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts—we love hearing from our community!