Explore MaineECO’s growing collection of resources designed to support outdoor and nature-based early childhood programs across Maine. Whether you're just getting started or deepening your practice, you’ll find tools, guides, research, and inspiration to help you get young children outdoors early and often.
Contact info@maineeco.org if you're looking for something specific.
Loose Parts in Your ONB Practice
Loose Parts can be anything when a child walks up to them. And that is the point.
Loose parts are found objects and materials that children can move, manipulate, control, and change while they play. With no set directions, they invite open-ended, imaginative play that supports brain development.
Access MaineECO’s Loose Parts Resource to help you integrate ONB and play-based learning into your classroom.
MaineECO’s Outdoor Gear Guide
Outdoor education gives young children something no indoor classroom can: unstructured time to explore, take appropriate risks, and build a real relationship with the natural world. But that relationship can only grow if children are actually comfortable enough to stay outside. Access MaineECO’s all season gear and layering guide, with shopping recommendations.
Mud Play and Learning
Mud season is actually one of the richest opportunities of the year for hands-on discovery, sensory learning, and unforgettable childhood memories. MaineECO's free mud play resource gives educators lesson ideas, seasonal prep checklists, and partner resources to confidently embrace mud season, mess and all.
Tick Safety in Maine: What Families and Educators Need to Know.
Learn how to protect your child from ticks with MaineECO's essential tick safety guidelines for Maine families and educators.
Winter Outdoor Safety Resources
Winter resources to help you promote outdoor play and learning during the winter. It covers analyzing weather, dressing for winter, and research.