Lindstrom Presents on Designing Outdoor Classrooms at 2025 NAEYC Conference

Mike Lindstrom, Principal and Early Education Studio Leader, presented at the 2025 National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida. His session, “Designing Outdoor Classrooms for Learning: Tools and Strategies for Success,” took place on Thursday, November 20 at the Orange County Convention Center.

Sponsored by Community Playthings, the session provided educators, administrators, and designers with a comprehensive framework for understanding, designing, and building successful outdoor classrooms. Attendees explored how intentional, nature-based environments support whole-child development and enhance early learning experiences.

Successful outdoor play and learning environments do not happen by accident—they require thoughtful planning, evidence-based strategies, and a deep understanding of children’s developmental needs. Drawing on more than 50 years of combined early childhood education expertise, presenters Ellen Veselack of The Child Educational Center/The Outdoor Classroom Project and Lindstrom shared practical tools, proven approaches, and real-world examples that empowered participants to create outdoor spaces where curiosity, exploration, and learning thrive.