Summer is the perfect season to slow down, step outside, and rediscover the joy of hands-on learning. That’s why we’re excited to launch our Outdoor STEAM Storytime series—a 6-week journey pairing beautiful picture books with simple, nature-based STEAM invitations that are perfect for preschoolers.
Whether you’re a teacher looking for fresh ideas or a parent wanting meaningful ways to spend time outdoors, this series will help you create engaging learning moments through stories, play, and everyday materials.
Why Outdoor Learning Matters for Young Children
Young children learn best by doing. When they’re outside, their senses are activated, their curiosity expands, and their natural desire to explore kicks in. Outdoor learning isn’t just a “break from the classroom”—it’s a developmentally rich environment full of opportunities for real learning.
Spending time in nature helps children:
- Build stronger observation and inquiry skills
- Strengthen sensory development and regulation
- Improve focus, creativity, and emotional well-being
- Engage their whole bodies in problem-solving and imaginative play
What Is STEAM and Why Does It Belong Outdoors?
STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math—but in early childhood, it’s less about mastering these subjects and more about building the habits of thinking that support them.
Things like:
- Asking questions
- Making predictions
- Testing ideas
- Creating and revising
- Observing and reflecting
By bringing STEAM outdoors, we naturally tap into children’s innate curiosity about the world: Why does this shadow move? What kind of rock is this? How do I make this stick stand up?
And when you pair that with a picture book? Magic.
What to Expect from the Series
Each week, we’ll feature:
- One beautifully chosen picture book
- One simple outdoor STEAM invitation inspired by the story
- Reflection prompts to spark learning and language
- An optional toddler adaptation so younger learners can join the fun too
These activities are designed to be low-prep, flexible, and rich in learning—using materials you already have and spaces you already use.
Yes, Toddlers Can Join Too
We know many of you care for mixed age groups or are supporting toddlers alongside preschoolers. That’s why we’re including a toddler suggestion in every post—with gentle, sensory-based ways to involve even your youngest learners in the outdoor fun.
Coming Soon
Outdoor STEAM Storytime begins next week.! We’ll kick things off with Waiting for Wings by Lois Ehlert—a beautiful invitation to explore butterflies, flowers, and the wonder of transformation.
Make sure you’re subscribed to our list so you don’t miss a week—and stay tuned for the big announcement about the Preschool STEAM Vault launching this August!
Let’s make this a summer of stories, science, and wonder.
Want More Summer STEAM Fun?
Grab the Preschool STEAM Summer Pass and get instant access to over 500 hands-on STEAM lessons, summer-themed curriculum guides, book-based activities, Wonder Camps, and exclusive resources.
Perfect for teachers, caregivers, and homeschoolers looking to make this summer playful and meaningful.
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