DCDEE Annual Statewide Gathering at the NC Zoo
On September 24, 2025, early childhood leaders and partners gathered at the NC Zoo in Asheboro for the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Statewide Gathering: Advancing Naturalized Outdoor Play and Learning in North Carolina. Hosted by the Natural Learning Initiative (NLI) and the DCDEE, the event showcased statewide efforts to expand outdoor learning through design, research, policy, and professional development.
Speakers from NLI, UNC–Greensboro, Sandhills Community College, and the NC DHHS shared updates on visioning, professional training, and network building for nature-based programs. Matt Babb, Adam Noel, Nilda Cosco, and Robin Moore—shared current projects, tools, and resources advancing outdoor play and learning across North Carolina.
Participants also explored Kidzone, the NC Zoo’s celebrated nature play space, during an afternoon visit led by Linda Kinney and Kathy Osborne, experiencing firsthand how play, wildlife, and design connect.
The gathering reaffirmed North Carolina’s commitment to ensuring that all children grow, learn, and thrive through daily experiences in nature.
Soolyeon Cho, PhD; Assoc. Dean for Research, Doctoral Programs, and Verbal Engagement, College of Design; Interim Director, NLI; welcomes attendees.
Event Highlights
Enthusiastic participant refers to NLI’s Preschool Outdoor Play & Learning Environment Best Practice Toolkit.
DCDEE regulatory staff engaged in a presentation providing updates on nature-based progress.
Linda Hestenes, PhD, updates the gathering on the nature-based project process.
Kathy Osborne, Kidzone Coordinator, briefs participants on the history of Kidzone and the NLI connection.
Participants explore Kidzone with Kathy Osborne.
