MDC invites preschool teachers to Discover Nature Schools workshop in Columbia Nov. 18

COLUMBIA, Mo. — The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites preschool teachers to an upcoming workshop that will provide free training on improving conservation education in their classrooms, home-school classes, or youth groups. The Discover Nature Schools workshop will take place on Saturday, Nov. 18, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the MDC Central Regional Office, 3500 East Gans Road in Columbia. Space is limited and registration is required by Thursday, Nov. 16.

“The Discover Nature Schools program is an excellent way to get students of all ages into nature and to enrich their learning through outdoor experiences focused on Missouri plants, animals and natural systems,” said MDC Conservation Education Consultant Kim Cole.

This workshop will prepare early childhood educators to teach Nature Revealed: the hands-on, Project Construct-based unit for preschool. MDC will supply free teacher guides and additional resources to support the curriculum. 

“Learning in nature benefits children in several ways, such as improving physical and mental health, raising standardized test scores, and reducing attention-deficit problems,” said Cole. “Nature Revealed introduces young learners to nature and helps to develop a sense of respect and appreciation for the outdoors.”

MDC’s Discover Nature Schools program provides no-cost curriculum units to teachers and schools in the state of Missouri. Curriculum units are available for preschool through grade 12 and are aligned with Missouri state standards in order to help teachers and students meet required learning expectations. 100% of school districts and approximately 40% of schools in the state participate in the program.

For questions or to register for the workshop, contact Cole at Kim.Cole@mdc.mo.gov or 573-815-7901, ext. 2964.

For more information about MDC’s Discover Nature Schools program, visit mdc.mo.gov/education.