In this episode of “Teach Your Kids," Manisha welcomes Rachel Tidd, the creator of nature-based curriculum Wild Learning, to share her inspiring journey from special education teacher to homeschooling mom and curriculum developer. They discuss the wonders of outdoor learning, its role in reducing stress, boosting engagement, integrating sustainability into core subjects like literacy and math, and enhancing academic performance in a hands-on, multisensory way. This episode offers insightful perspectives on alternative education and illuminates the significance of connecting children with the natural world in today's fast-paced, technology-driven environment, and the significance of outdoor experiences in whole child development. Rachel Tidd is an innovative educator and the creator of Wild Learning, a nature-based curriculum. With a background in environmental science and special education, she integrates her passion for the natural world into her teaching. Rachel's approach is centered on outdoor, multisensory learning experiences, emphasizing the importance of nature in child development and education, especially for those with sensory challenges. Her work highlights the transformative power of connecting children with nature in their learning journey.
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Time Codes
00:00:00 — Introduction of the podcast and guest Rachel Tidd, founder of Wild Learning.
00:02:07 -— Discussion about the creation of Wild Math and Wild Learning and Rachel's journey into homeschooling.
00:03:41 — Exploration of sensory challenges in children, with a focus on Rachel's personal experiences with her children.
00:06:34 — Discussion on the science of reading, its importance in curriculums, and Rachel's perspective on teaching reading.
00:10:05 — The impact of the science of reading on educational approaches and challenges in reading instruction.
00:13:53 — Debate on unschooling and the necessity of teaching reading skills to children.
00:17:09 — Insights into different approaches to reading and the importance of explicit instruction in reading.
00:21:42 — Discussion on the challenges of math education and the inception of Wild Math.
00:25:29 —Exploring the concept of nature-based learning and its benefits.
00:33:07 —] The history and current trends in nature-based learning and its implementation.
00:47:56 — Conversation on the role of technology in education, particularly in relation to literacy and outdoor learning.
00:50:37 — Rachel's views on screen time for children and balancing technology use in education.
00:54:01 — Advice for parents homeschooling children who may have difficulties learning outside.
00:57:52 — Final thoughts and recommendations for parents interested in starting their own educational business, inspired by Rachel's journey.
This podcast was recorded on Riverside and is made possible through a generous grant from the Vela Education Fund
VELA Education Fund is catalyzing a vibrant alternative education ecosystem. VELA provides trust-based funding to entrepreneurs, fosters community-building and knowledge-sharing, and increases visibility through storytelling that promotes cultural awareness and acceptance of the out-of-system space. Today, VELA serves the largest community of out-of-system education entrepreneurs in the country, with over 2,000 community members. About half of VELA’s community members operate small learning environments, and the other half are ecosystem and community builders offering direct services and support across the out-of-system space. Learn more at velaedfund.org.
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