MISSION
“Creating environments for healthy human development and a healthy biosphere for generations to come.”
Since 2000
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT and training includes theory, principles, and techniques that guide the design of play and learning environments with an emphasis on the design and management of natural environments to support healthy child development.
PROGRAMS integrate many multi-year PROJECTS with the aim of achieving higher levels of sustained quality. Projects are typically concentrated, short duration efforts that focus on specific design issues (e.g., design assistance, evaluation, professional development, or policy initiative).
RESOURCES are created, often in collaboration with NLI’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience of all children. Please use and share.
¡Consulta nuestros recursos en pdf en español!
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News and Upcoming Events
The NLI Website Becomes Multilingual
We’re thrilled to expand our global reach and make our resources more accessible than ever with the new GTranslate plugin on our website! As part of...
The NLI Resource Hub: A New Tool for Educational Resources
In an ongoing effort to enhance the accessibility and impact of our educational materials, the Natural Learning Initiative (NLI) has launched the...
Kids Together Playground Interactive Virtual Tour
Kids Together Playground, a universally-designed, family recreation space in Cary, NC, opened in 2000, designed by NLI’s Robin Moore in...
Did You Know Outdoor Time…
- Supports gross motor skills
- Encourages healthy eating
- Improves eyesight
- Promotes cognitive development
- Improves academic performance
- Lessens ADHD symptoms
- Promotes self-confidence
- Reduces stress
- May boost immune system