Every Kid Outside

Have you ever wished your classroom could be outside? On this episode of The Children’s Hour, we explore what happens when kids learn in the open air. We visit summer programs across New Mexico where children share how nature helps them feel strong, calm, and curious.

Find our learning guide and the full episode page with activity links at https://ChildrensHour.org/every-kid-outside

We learn how sunshine, trees, birds, and even raindrops can teach us important lessons. The organization Environmental Education of New Mexico wants to make outdoor learning part of every school day for all students.

You’ll also hear from kids in Mrs. Dawson’s fourth grade class at Valle Vista Elementary School in Albuquerque. These students went birdwatching every week at the Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge. They learned how to use binoculars, identify birds by sight and sound, and then turned their experiences into creative poems. Their words show how being outside helped them see nature—and themselves—in a whole new way. They noticed birds in their neighborhoods, learned how birds build nests, and discovered their own connection to the land.

The idea of outdoor classrooms is catching on, and for good reason. Kids who learn outside are healthier, happier, and more excited about school. From planting gardens to watching clouds or counting insects, there are endless ways to explore the world right outside your door. Whether you're in the city, the mountains, or the desert, nature is ready to be your teacher.

The Children’s Hour was written and produced by Katie Stone, Executive Producer and Host with production support from Christina Stella, Sarah Gabrielli, Marci Krivonen, Thaniel Lentz, and Eli Henley. Chad Scheer was our recording engineer at Outpost Performance Space in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Our learning guide was written by Amber Schiel.

Thanks to the team at Environmental Education of New Mexico. Special thanks to Mrs. Dawson’s fourth grade class at Valle Vista Elementary, whose bird poems and reflections brought this episode to life.

The Children’s Hour is produced by The Children’s Hour Inc., distributed by Native Voice One, and supported by listeners like you. Find more at ChildrensHour.org/every-kid-outside.

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