Register for Upcoming Classes

08/28, 09/04, 09/11

1:00 - 2:00 pm Central Time

Lunch and Learn - Cultivating Calm: Mindfulness Practices for Early Childhood Educators

These sessions are designed for early childhood professionals and explores how simple, accessible mindfulness practices can support emotional regulation, reduce burnout, and cultivate nurturing classroom environments. Each session blends personal reflection with practical strategies for introducing mindfulness to young children.

Online

No cost for live

1.0

Yes - for credit with fee

Register Here

Tuesdays, September 2 - November 11

09/02, 09/09. 09/16, 09/23, 09/30, 10/07, 10/14, 10/21, 10/28, 11/04

1:00 - 2:00 pm Central Time

Lunch and Learn - Play-Based Learning in Practice

This series will dive into pedagogical foundations, best practices, thoughtfully designed environments, and practical activity ideas that support children's growth through play. Each session will highlight core concepts and real-world strategies, while also incorporating topics of interest chosen by participants. Whether you're new to play-based learning or looking to deepen your practice, you'll leave each session with inspiration and tools you can immediately apply. 
Flexible Attendance:
Participants are welcome to attend any sessions that fit their schedule. While the sessions build upon each other, each one also stands on its own and can be taken individually.

Missed a Session?
Recordings will be available so you can catch up at your convenience.

Together, we’ll explore how to create meaningful, engaging, and developmentally appropriate experiences that honor the whole child—through the lens of play.
 

Online

No cost for live

1.0

Yes - for credit with fee

Register Here

2nd Tuesday of the month

08/12, 09/09, 10/14, 11/11, 12/09, 01/13, 02/10, 03/10, 04/14, 05/12

7:30 - 8:30 pm Central Time

Inside Outside 2025-2026

This year’s Inside Outside Meetings will center around the LEAF Initiative’s Nature-Based Learning Professional Development Series. Each month, participants will engage in a blended learning experience designed to deepen understanding and practical application of nature-based education.   
How it Works:
Step 1: Complete a 1-hour asynchronous online PD module at your own pace. 
Step 2: Join a live virtual meeting to reflect, collaborate, and expand on what you’ve learned.

Choose Your Meeting Time: 
2nd Tuesday of each month | 7:30–8:30 PM CT 
2nd Thursday of each month | 1:00–2:00 PM CT 
Whether you're just beginning to explore nature-based learning or looking to grow your existing practice, this series offers meaningful insights and supportive community connections—all grounded in research and real-world experience. Let nature inspire your teaching—inside and out!

Online

No cost for live

1.0

Yes - no credit awarded for recording

Register Here for Tuesday Meetings

2nd Thursday of the month

08/14, 09/11, 10/16, 11/13, 12/11, 01/15, 02/12, 03/12, 04/16, 05/14

1:00 - 2:00 pm Central Time

Online

No cost for live

1.0

Yes - no credit awarded for recording

Register Here for Thursday Meetings