From Play to Action: Growing a PreK–6 Nature Program with Kyra Stephenson

In this episode, I welcome back Kyra Stephenson, Nature-Based Learning Coach at Anna Murray-Douglass Academy in Rochester, New York. One year ago, we first talked about how she brought a nature-based learning (NBL) program into a public PreK–6 school. Now, entering Year 4 of the program, Kyra shares how it has continued to grow, adapt, and root itself deeply in her school community.

Kyra gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her teaching rhythm: working in three-week rotations where she spends an hour at a time with classes from kindergarten through grade 5. Each grade level is grounded in a year-long theme that grows with students as they move through the program:

• PreK/K: Play, exploring place, knowing your body (balance)
• Grade 1: Community
• Grade 2: Humane treatment of animals
• Grade 3: Pollinators to food – form and function
• Grade 4: Geologic time, through Indigenous practices to present day
• Grade 5: Community action projects – guardianship instead of stewardship
• Grade 6: CASCADE Program through Rochester Institute of Technology and Sea Grant

Kyra highlights how much of her practice is inspired by routines and games from Coyote’s Guide to Connecting with Kids through Nature by Jon Young, and she shares practical examples of nature journaling that teachers can bring to their own classrooms.

One of my favourite takeaways from this conversation: it’s okay to start indoors if that’s what students need for comfort or safety. The goal is always the same—finding joy, building connection, and growing community through nature.

As Kyra beautifully puts it:

“It’s a movement of changing the way we interact with the planet.”

Tune in to hear Kyra’s wisdom, practical strategies, and her passion for nurturing a generation of learners who feel deeply connected to the world around them.

See the new website here: https://sites.google.com/rcsd121.org/amda12nbl/home