Engaging with nature significantly influences the cognitive, behavioural, and emotional development of preschool children. This connection is particularly vital in the context of climate change, as children who grow up experiencing the outdoors are more likely to develop a sense of responsibility toward the environment and our planet. Outdoor education represents an innovative teaching approach that addresses two of today’s most pressing issues: ensuring high-quality, lasting education and fostering environmental awareness to protect our planet from the growing threat of climate change.
Noua ediție a cursului “Educație în aer liber pentru cadrele didactice preșcolare” took place in Tenerife from 12/10/2025 to 18/10/2025. The participants came from all across Europe, with Michela and Claudia from Don Milani in Italy, Crocetta, Karen and Morena from IC Castelvetro in Italy, Natasa and Mirjana from OS Jela Janezica in Slovenia, Helan and Lene from Lillestrøm barnehage in Norway, Solveig, Ingrid and Siw-Kristin from Garderåsen kindergarten in Norway. 
Starting from the definition of Outdoor Education, we analyzed and discussed the benefits of Outdoor Education and the participants had the chance to share their own experience with teaching in nature. Because this course was specifically addressed to preschool teachers, the participants also learnt about the Spanish education system and shared a presentation of their own schools in order to compare their different methods and approaches. 
Another section of the course focused on hands-on activities conducted in a natural setting within a local park. The games and exercises practiced were highly appreciated by the participants and served as inspiration for designing their own outdoor activities, tailored to the specific needs of their students. 
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Participants also learned about the importance of planning outdoor spaces by familiarizing themselves with the selected area beforehand to minimize potential risks. They had the opportunity to apply this knowledge in practice by exploring an outdoor environment, identifying key features such as engaging areas, potential hazards, as well as designated play and rest zones. This hands-on experience equipped them with valuable skills for organizing safe and effective outdoor activities for their pupils. Additionally, by visiting a local outdoor kindergarten, participants were able to observe a successful example of outdoor learning in action—both from a practical perspective and through witnessing how children interact with one another and with nature.
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The final part of the course focused on developing green skills and integrating them into teaching practices. Participants explored the theory behind climate change and received practical guidance on introducing the topic to young children, including a variety of games and activities that can be implemented in the classroom.
During the course, participants had the opportunity to explore a wide range of activities that they can replicate with their students, demonstrating that learning extends far beyond the classroom walls!
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