Why Go Outside with Me?

I bring a unique combination of naturalist knowledge and early childhood teaching experience to my work with children and their families outside. Much of my work follows the 8 Shields philosophy, is inspired by Coyote's Guide to Connecting with Nature, and includes little tidbits that I've picked up here and there.

Most importantly, I love to play outdoors with kids. Whether you are coming to Among the Ferns for resources to support your budding naturalist at home or plan to take a class with me, we are going to have fun!

Emily's Educational and Professional Experience

Leadership and Professional Work

Professional Development Coordinator, Eastern Region Association of Forest and Nature Schools

Nature-based and Outdoor Education Specialist, Homestead School, Glen Spey, NY

Classroom Naturalist and School-Age Programs Co-Site Director, Live & Learn Early Learning Center

"Big Fish Little Fish" Naturalist, Seacoast Science Center

Science, Nature-Play, and Learning Professional Learning Community Facilitator, Four Winds Nature Institute

Eastern Region Association of Forest and Nature Schools Nature Based Teacher Certification Program Facilitator

Primary Education

B.S. Environmental Conservation and Sustainability - University of New Hampshire

Additional Education and Professional Development

Graduate work in Antioch University New England's M.Ed. Nature-Based Early Childhood Education

Nature-Based Teacher Certification Levels I, II, & III - Eastern Region Association of Forest and Nature Schools

Topics covered over 72 hours of coursework: Coyote Mentoring core routines, directional teaching, risk identification and assessment/hazard mitigation, emergent curriculum, mindfulness practices for children and adults, nature-based program management and development, natural history, and so much more.

Certifications

CPR/First Aid Certification Infant-Adult through American Red Cross

New Hampshire Early Childhood Teacher Credential Level II through Child Care Aware

Project WILD, Project WET, Project Growing Up Wild, and Project Learning Tree Certified

Honors and Recognition

Speaker and presenter at 2019 and 2020 Natural Start Alliance Conference

2018 TEDx Portsmouth Speaker - see the video below!