A sense of awe might be one of the most powerful teaching tools we have.

In this episode of the Happier, Healthier, Smarter Podcast, we’re joined by Mary Michaud, educator, public health professional, and certified horticultural therapist at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. She shares how her deep connection to nature shaped her career and inspired her to create outdoor learning spaces, while challenging students to rethink traditional school environments.

We also explore the science behind why nature matters, from attention restoration theory to the well-being benefits of outdoor learning. Mary offers practical strategies for outdoor classrooms, encourages appropriate risk-taking for children, and shares simple ways to reconnect with nature in everyday life.

Links + Resources:

Nature Play for Healthy Development Blog: https://medium.com/@MaryMichaudHlth/nature-play-for-healthy-development-be5763bea15a

What the Robin Knows by Jon Young: https://bookshop.org/a/10747/9780544002302

Follow Mary’s Art on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ginkgoartsandletters/

Show your support for environmental education by becoming a member: waee.org/join

Follow the show online:

Facebook: @WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation

Instagram: @wisconsinassociationforee

LinkedIn: wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc

YouTube: @wisconsinassociationforee

View all book recommendations from the podcast: https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter

Thank you to our sponsors:

James E Dutton Foundation: https://www.jameseduttonfoundation.org/

Natural Resources Foundation: https://www.wisconservation.org/

WAEE Funding Partners: https://www.waee.org/our-supporters

Green & Healthy Schools Wisconsin: https://green-and-healthy-schools-wi-dnr.hub.arcgis.com/

If you’d like to become a sponsor, contact us at podcast@waee.org