This year’s theme for the Nature-based Learning Symposium is: The Right to Nature. Nature is an essential part of our lives – that’s why it’s essential that all people have equitable access to our beautiful green spaces and outdoor activities. Cities around the country (including ours!) have adopted a Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR), which illustrates equitable access to nature and guides children and adults to develop healthy, active lifestyles. Topics at this year’s symposium will be connect to the rights within the COBOR and creating opportunities for all people to find nature.

Learn More about the Symposium

We have also organized a pre-symposium field trip to paddle and hike on August 19th.
Everyone is welcome, bring a friend!

Additional Nature-based Learning Opportunities

Our partners are working hard to offer opportunities for nature-based learning and we wanted to share these with our fellow nature-based learning enthusiasts.

• Educators’ Respite Retreat with The Next Generation and You

Carter Remy has organized an escape to nature for educators to recharge, reconnect with nature, and rejuvenate their teaching spirit on Seneca Lake August 2 through August 4. 

• Nature-Based Learning and Maker Space Lead Teacher/Coach

Exploration Charter School is hiring a teacher to help build their innovative nature-based learning program.

• City of Rochester Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights

This bill defines a list of outdoor activities that all children should have the right to experience, and serves as a tool to help guide priorities and decisions regarding access to nature and funding, so that all of Rochester’s children have equitable access to the outdoor experiences that are crucial for healthy development. 

• Genesee Valley Great Outdoors Week

Genesee Country Village & Museum is hosting an event July 24 – July 28 that includes a conversation with Jacqueline L. Scott: “Black Outdoors: Where Race, Nature, & History Meet on Saturday.