To enable Child Development associate degree students to comprehend the theoretical foundations, importance, and developmental impacts of nature education and outdoor pedagogy in early childhood. Within the scope of this course, it is aimed for students to recognize nature-based educational approaches; to learn methods for integrating outdoor learning environments and natural materials into the preschool curriculum; to master the principles of science education in nature, environmental awareness, sustainability, and risk management; and to acquire the skills to theoretically plan nature-based activities, ensure family participation, and present their work.

The concept of nature education, its historical development, and its importance; the interaction between early childhood developmental domains and nature; nature-based educational approaches such as forest schools, Waldorf, and Reggio Emilia; the relationship between nature and outdoor play; pedagogical design of outdoor learning environments; the use of natural materials in educational environments and activities; principles of preparing nature-based activity plans; theoretical foundations of science education practices in nature; environmental literacy, eco-philosophy, and sustainability; occupational health, safety, and risk management in the outdoors; family participation strategies in nature education; planning methodology of nature trips and field studies; and the theoretical presentation and evaluation processes of nature-oriented projects.