179: Setting Goals for the New Year in Your Outdoor Classroom Using the Four Types of Teaching Gardens

Using the Four Types of Teaching Gardens

In this episode, Victoria guides educators through an inspiring and actionable journey of setting meaningful New Year goals for their Outdoor Classroom using the Four Types of Teaching Gardens:

Gardens that FeedGardens that Attract WildlifeGardens for Art and BeautyGardens as Outdoor Learning Stations

Building on the reflective questions shared in the latest Seedling News PDF, this episode brings those prompts to life—helping you turn reflection into a clear, garden-centered plan for the year ahead.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

🌱 Why goal-setting matters

How intention, not perfection, shapes a thriving Outdoor Classroom.

🥕 How to develop goals for Gardens that Feed

Ideas for edible planting, cultural foods, composting, and hands-on culinary rituals for kids.

🦋 Ways to invite more wildlife into your space

Tips for creating habitat, expanding native plantings, and supporting children as citizen scientists.

🎨 How to cultivate beauty, creativity, and art outdoors

From color gardens to nature looms, this segment explores aesthetic and sensory-rich garden features that nurture imagination.

🔍 How to strengthen your Outdoor Learning Stations

Practical strategies for evolving your mud kitchen, literacy areas, STEM zones, and sensory spaces.

🗂 How to build a simple, seasonal action plan

Victoria walks you through choosing ONE goal for each garden type—and spreading those steps across winter and spring.

Reflection Questions Featured:

What do you want your outdoor classroom to become this year?Which plants, wildlife, art elements, or learning stations most engaged children last season?What do you want children to feel, experience, and discover in each garden area?What support or structure will help you bring your goals to life?

Resources Mentioned:

Seedling News Reflective PDF – Use it alongside this episode to map out your year

The Four Types of Teaching Gardens Framework: Learn more in our Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program

CIRCLE Membership Community – For educators ready to grow deeper and connect with others on the same journey

Join the Community:

Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators?

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