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What People Are Saying… and Loving About Nature Created Play
This was the best training I’ve been to. Spending time to reflect on my own childhood and the ‘why’ was valuable.
— Phoenix Teacher
In my 25+ years of teaching this training was one of the most beneficial uses of my time. The information was presented in a way that was engaging and inspiring. It was completely interactive throughout every activity. I would highly recommend this training to other teachers.
— Tempe Teacher
Amazing presenters that went above and beyond to facilitate deep discussion; understanding without lecturing. Enjoyed how they made me think about my nature play experiences. Best training I've been to in a very long time! :)
— Informal Educator
I loved learning how to let go. Letting children explore who they are and what they can do. I am GENUINELY excited to learn more and be able to put these things into practice.
— Tucson Preschool Teacher
The most important/impactful thing I learned today was how to shift the things we say not only to a more positive manner, but in a way that encourages them [children] to think and express themselves.
— Tucson Preschool Teacher
At today's training I really enjoyed getting a better understanding of risky play and use of loose parts. Seeing how the loose parts play connects to standards.
— Tucson Preschool Teacher
We Start with Saying YES
The "Yes, and..." method is the foundation for everything else we teach. It addresses the barriers teachers face across ALL areas: the stress, the "nos" that slip out, the fear (all the fear!), wondering what families will think, and the feeling of being the playground cop.
Our Core Teachings
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Loose Parts
Loose parts are open-ended materials (sticks, fabric, rocks, PVC pipes, all the random bits and bobs) that children can move, combine, and transform however they choose. And when they’re used well? They’re a powerhouse for creativity, problem-solving, and deep, sustained engagement. In this training, we’ll explore what actually counts as a loose part (and what doesn’t), how to source materials for free or cheap, and how to set up invitations that spark meaningful play. You’ll get hands-on time to play, experiment, and think through how loose parts can work in your own space (indoors and outdoors) without it turning into chaos.
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Risky Play
Climbing up the slide. Jumping off rocks. Testing limits in ways that make adults a little sweaty. It might look risky and that’s the point. In this training, we dig into what risky play actually is, including the critical difference between risk and hazard. We’ll unpack the stories our brains tell us about danger, practice assessing real risk in the moment, and explore why these experiences are essential for children’s development. We’ll also get practical. How to support this kind of play in your classrooms, how to talk about it with families, and how to respond when something feels too risky. You'll leave with the confidence to let kids take risks and the language to explain why it matters.
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Process Art
Process art is all about the experience, not the outcome. In this training, we’ll challenge the “Pinterest-perfect” mindset, unpack why pre-cutting and over-directing limit children’s thinking, and explore how open-ended art supports problem-solving, decision-making, and self-expression. You'll get your hands messy, troubleshoot common barriers (what will families think?!), and leave with a plan to make process art a regular, meaningful part of your day.
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Play Schemas
Why do children line things up, dump materials out, spin in circles, or repeat the same actions over and over? It's not random. It's schema! Schemas are the deep, repetitive patterns of play children use to make sense of their world. What can look like disruptive behavior is often actually focused, meaningful learning through action. We’ll explore what schemas are, how to recognize them in action, why “just redirecting” often falls short, and how they can change the way we plan when we understand that children are fundamentally action-based learners. You'll leave with practical tips for recognizing and supporting schema in action…turning those "chaotic" moments into opportunities for growth.
Specialty Offering
Tiny Humans, Big Feelings
Conflict doesn't have to end in tears, for you or the kids. In this workshop, co-taught with Lauren Stidham, you'll learn to transform, "He took my shovel!" into genuine opportunities for growth and connection.
We'll explore why conflict is a natural, productive part of classroom life and why leaning into it (rather than shutting it down) is worth it. From there, we'll dig into empathy: what it really means, why self-understanding comes first, and how to model it authentically for the children in your care.
You'll walk away with a concrete 4-step conflict resolution process, practical strategies for guiding kids through disagreements, and a clearer picture of what's actually happening in little brains during big meltdowns. We'll work through real-life scenarios together, so you leave feeling confident and ready for whatever Monday morning throws at you.
Format: 6-hour intensive or multi-day experience
Price: $3000 virtual, $3600 in person
Outdoor Classroom Assessment
The Preschool Outdoor Environment Measurement Scale (POEMS) is a research-validated tool developed by NC State University and UNC Greensboro that gives early childhood programs a structured, honest look at the quality of their outdoor spaces. Covering 54 items across five domains, it helps directors and administrators see clearly what's thriving and where the real opportunities are hiding.
This offering walks you through meaningful outdoor change. We start with an assessment of your outdoor environment, followed by a facilitated debrief with your team to make sense of what we found. From there, we build a realistic implementation plan grounded in your program's priorities and resources. And because progress deserves to be seen, we close with a post-implementation assessment to mark how far you've come.
POEMS pairs beautifully with other professional development work. It's the kind of offering that makes everything else click into place by grounding big ideas in the specific, tangible space where children actually play and learn every day.
Price: $2000
CHOOSE YOUR FORMAT
Let’s work together!
More of What People Are Saying… and Loving About Nature Created Play
The risky play PDs were so wonderful. I am so much less stressed during outside choices now! It made me reflect on my own childhood and all the wild things I used to do outside and I never got seriously injured. Our kiddos need that same confidence! The other day, a child was climbing the tree and got scared to turn around. I just stood there and said I was right with her and she did it without my help! She was so proud that it made me feel proud too.
— Teacher, Second Street Children’s School, Tucson
We had an 83% reduction in accidents and injuries on our playground after working with Kyla for about 6 months!-
— Coach, Child Parent Centers, Tucson
It was awesome, I had a great time and I am going back to teaching inspired! ❤
— Teacher, Flowing Wells Unified School District, Tucson
Kyla was an excellent instructor. It is amazing to discover how many fun things we can do with loose parts and with things that we already have in our classroom.
— Teacher, Tucson Unified School District, Tucson
I enjoyed the open dialogue. [Kyla was] respectful of the various levels of expertise and voices in the audience. I appreciate that.
— Guide, Tucson Children’s Museum, Tucson
FAQs
Can you provide virtual professional development?
Yes! While I love in-person training opportunities, I also understand the importance of virtual training to reach audiences across the globe. These courses are generally shorter and can be broken up into multiple days.
How do I set up a custom professional development course?
Email me! Whether you want to do a combination of the courses I already offer or you want to see if I can help with something else- let’s chat! We love creating custom workshops for your team.
Do you travel for in-person classes?
Yes! I can absolutely travel to you. Please email me to discuss fees for travel outside of Tucson!
I have a large staff; can you accommodate us?
Yes! But we love an intimate group size! Depending on the size of your staff we might bring in a second trainer. We might also discuss the option of holding multiple sessions to provide more custom experiences.
How do you take payment?
After we confirm everything I will send you an invoice. Payment via check is preferred.
What is your staff’s experience?
Nature Created Play has multiple trainers with tons of experience. We have diverse backgrounds including environmental education, preschool teachers, coaches, preschool directors, artistry, and more.
Natural play strengthens children’s self-confidence and arouses their senses- their awareness of the world and all that moves in it, seen and unseen.
-Richard Louv