About the Nature-based Pedagogy Program
This certificate provides a foundation in child development, highlighting nature, environmental education, and stewardship. It includes an exploration of a nature-based pedagogy continuum; from nature-focused activities through forest Kindergarten principles and practices, as well as strategies and resources to support children in developing and fostering a curiosity of the world around them. Cultural diversity and placed-based influences will be a focus.
Outdoor learning environments (OLEs) stimulate the diversity of children’s play experience and contribute to their healthy development. Through observation and assessment opportunities, candidates will experience first-hand the outdoor learning environment; discovering skills and understanding required to create, manage, promote, and organize a quality outdoor learning environment for children.
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Program Paths
Nature-based Pedagogy
Certificate of Achievement
Upon completion of the program, students will demonstrate how to assess early childhood outdoor learning environments, utilize benefit-risk assessment when introducing an outdoor learning experience, explain how having a quality early childhood outdoor learning environments can positively impact physical activity and healthy eating in young children, infuse early childhood education with environmental education learning opportunities, and describe how outdoor environments and nature connection can support early childhood development.
Resources and Transfer
Many colleges and universities offer baccalaureate degrees in this field. Students planning to transfer to a four-year college or university should meet with a counselor to discuss which courses need to be taken at SMC before applying to your designer colleges/universities.
Student Resources
We know college isn't always easy. We are here to help as you navigate through your SMC journey. This resource connects to information about Financial Aid, Tutoring Services, the Center for Wellness and Wellbeing and much more!
Early Childhood Lab School
Santa Monica College and the City of Santa Monica, in a unique partnership, have built an innovative early childhood laboratory school to serve the community while enabling teachers in-training to develop crucial expertise under the guidance of leading education professionals.
Transfers
Education and Early Childhood Education is a career education program that does not directly lead to transfer. Students planning to transfer should talk immediately with an Academic Counselor to discuss what SMC courses will help you transfer.