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Greetings!
Thank you for signing up for Acorn Naturalists free, monthly E-newsletter highlighting new articles, resources, and observations in the field of science, outdoor and environment-based education.As educators and naturalists, we wish you the best with your own programs, adventures and natural explorations! |
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More evidence supporting direct, hands-on education.
We have long been fans of Orion as a source of new ideas for science, outdoor and environmental education. The July/August issue of Orion featured an article by none other than David Sobel, a well respected "deep thinker" when it comes to figuring out how to connect children with their environment, and more importantly, getting them to care about it as adults.
David Sobel presents a strong case for returning to the roots of nature education as the basis for teaching environmental education. Sobel argues that if the goal is to nurture children into becoming adults that care for and understanding their environment, that we need to restructure the way we teach, encouraging "random exploration" of nature that allows children to make the discoveries and connections for themselves. Controversial and engaging, this article is sure to generate discussion and reconsideration of how we teach children about their environment. The full article appears here in Orion, a nature magazine that stretches beyond environmental issues to explore the philosophy of nature. |
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Why we went 100% native!
Ten years ago we landscaped Acorn Naturalists headquarters entirely with native plants. The sycamores we planted as small "whips" now tower high above our two story Craftsman building! Although we are located in the middle of urban Old Town Tustin, we constantly observe species of insects, amphibians, reptiles and birds that one would normally only find miles away in the hills.
Our goal was to prove that commercial urban settings can be beautifully landscaped entirely with natives. It has been a joyous adventure! We wanted to show that native gardens need not be limited to backyard gardens tended by native garden affectionados. We have shown that they can successfully be incorporated right in the heart of the city - districts like Old Town Tustin - and that they can look attractive year round. Come by and see how it can be done!
For more pictures of the native plantings at Acorn Naturalists, please click here. In subsequent E-newsletters, we will be bringing you more pictures and stories about the incredible diversity of animal life that native plantings have brought to this small urban oasis. |
Based on personal experience, we have always felt that there is more to "exploring nature" than meets the eye. This book documents new scientific studies that show why exposure to natural environments has such remarkable benefits for human health. These studies conclusively show that natural environments are more likely to promote positive emotions. For example, viewing and walking in nature has been shown to be associated with heightened physical energy and mental health. Nature has also been found to have a positive impact on children who have been diagnosed with impulsivity, hyperactivity, and attention deficit disorder. This book offers a powerful wake-up call for our tech-immersed society.
Author and physician Eva Selhub and naturopath Alan Logan examine not only the effects of nature on the brain, but also the ubiquitous influence of everyday technology on the brain, and how technology overload and its many distractions may even be changing it. Offering an antidote for the technology-addicted, the book outlines emerging nature-based therapies including ecotherapy, as well as practical strategies for improving your (and your children's) cognitive functioning, mental health, and physical well-being through ecotherapeutic, nutritional, and behavioral means.
A fascinating look at the effects that both nature and technology have on the brain's functioning and one's overall well-being, Your Brain on Nature explains why even just a walk in the park can help restore health and balance. You can obtain a copy of this book from Acorn Naturalists. |
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Coyote Howls
The next section of our E-newsletter features natural history musings and social commentary by the science educator and naturalist who writes under the pen name Coyote. His compositions are based on real-life field experiences, encounters, and observations.
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Did I mention to you that I saw young Rachel Carson recently?
I took a long fall hike in a nearby park last Saturday while my two "twenty something" daughters were out running the trails. Upon their return, while catching their breath, they noticed a girl, probably around 10, collecting leaves and making "leaf flags" by pinning leaves to sticks. The young girl came over and gave us some, noting that they were "fun things she made from nature." Noticing her mother nearby, we introduced ourselves and told the mother about her daughter's wonderful gifts.
We realized, however, that the child was engaged in "nature play" without a lot of adult encouragement. Before we left, we told the girl how wonderful her discoveries were, and that she should continue her adventures and making her beautiful nature art. I had seen pictures of Rachel Carson when she was about that age, and it was eerie just how closely this girl actually resembled the young Rachel. I was also aware of the details of Rachel's adventurous childhood and strong spirit that carried her through the many struggles she faced as an adult.
Did we just observe another Rachel Carson in the making? I hope so, and hope that this little girl has the strength to pursue her emerging naturalist intelligence in spite of the obstacles to natural inquiry she may encounter at school and later as an adult. She seemed very attracted to the natural world, and also seemed to have a strong will. As I reflect back on that walk in the park, I am pretty sure that I did, indeed, meet young Rachel Carson... |
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Additional Educational
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Gardens for Learning
Insect Adventures
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