Professional Development Institute to Offer Series on Awe in Nature for Early Childhood Settings

Early childhood professionals can take part in an upcoming seven-part series offered by the Professional Development Institute (PDII) program focused on exploring awe in nature in the early childhood setting.

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The free class will examine awe and its relationship to nature. Participants will learn about the benefits of awe in nature for staff, families, and children. They will also learn ways to incorporate awe and nature into the early learning classroom setting.

Accepted participants will be asked to complete at least one series offering for the greater early childhood professionals in their community. The seven-session series takes approximately eight hours to complete.

A two-day Professional Development Institute will take place at Berks Nature, located at 575 Bernardine St. in Reading, on April 3 and 4. Attendances is required for those participating in the series.

For those who participate:

  • Hotel rooms will be provided for trainers.

  • Lunch will be provided on both days of the training.

  • A one-time stipend of $350 will be provided to trainers.

  • Transportation is the responsibility of each trainer.

Application Requirements

Those who apply must currently hold approval as a Professional Development instructor in the Pennsylvania Registry.

During the application process, applicants must:

  • Describe their experience with instructing nature in early childhood education and include specific programs and methods they’ve used (300 words max)

  • Share examples of how they have incorporated reflective practices into their teaching (300 words max)

  • Describe why they are interested in the Professional Development Institute opportunity, including what motivates them to focus on awe in nature for early childhood education (300 words max)

  • Provide two letters of professional reference that speak about their qualifications and experience in this area of focus

Those interested should apply now. Applications are due by 4 p.m. on Friday, January 24.

News, ProvidersNathan Dukeawe in nature, early childhood, Professional Development Institute