Minnesota Early Childhood Outdoors (MnECO) is a network of early childhood educators, programs, and organizations dedicated to promoting and supporting nature-based early childhood education in Minnesota.

MNECO supports educators and programs in creating high-quality outdoor learning experiences for young children by offering:

• Resources: We collaborate with other organizations including MDE, DCYF, and the Minnesota Children's Cabinet to create early childhood specific resources to help educators incorporate nature-based learning into their programs. In addition, we foster the collaboration and sharing of resources including curriculum, activitity ideas, etc. between early childhood programs. Download the free, Nature-based Early Childhood Program Assessment & Guidebook here. 

• Training: We offer workshops and training sessions for early childhood educators on topics such as child development, outdoor safety, and nature-based curriculum. See our workshop page for more details.

• Networking: We facilitate networking opportunities for educators to connect with each other, share ideas, and build community both in person and virtually. See MNECO NESTS and our Facebook Group for more details. 

• Advocacy: We advocate for policies and practices that support nature-based early childhood education in Minnesota. Follow along with our advocacy during the Licensing Modernization Project Here. 

Interested in being more active in planning events? Or have feedback for us on things you'd like to see?

 If so, complete this form! 

Input Needed! (Regarding Barriers & Challenges for Programs)

Have you experienced barriers (DHS licensing, ParentAware, Curriculum & Assessment criteria, funding, etc) with taking young children outdoors? If so, please take 2 minutes to complete this quick survey.

https://forms.gle/hrM2wyYsjUGWjq4w5

Information gathered will be helpful in targeting the advocacy & support work happening in Minnesota to address the areas of need.