Exciting News for Nature-Based Early Childhood Education in Hawaii

We are thrilled to announce that Imua Family Services will be hosting the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators (NCEL) for a Nature-Based Early Childhood tour and dialogue at the Will Smith Imua Discovery Garden in Wailuku, HI, in January 2026. This exciting convening will bring together state legislators, national experts, and nature-based early childcare providers to explore the vital connection between early childhood education and the natural world.

During this convening, participants will have the opportunity to tour Imua’s innovative outdoor preschool program here on Maui, where children engage with nature in a hands-on, immersive learning environment. Since the Maui Wildfires, The Will Smith Imua Discovery Garden has served as a living classroom, allowing children to explore, discover, and connect with the beauty of our island’s ecosystems. This unique setting not only enhances their learning experiences but also fosters a deep appreciation for the environment.

The convening will feature discussions and dialogues focused on state policy options that can increase access to nature-based early childhood education. With representatives from organizations such as the Youth Outdoor Policy Playbook, the North American Association of Environmental Education (NAAEE), and the Children & Nature Network, attendees will gain valuable insights into how to advocate for policies that support outdoor learning and nature access for young children.

Several states across the nation have already begun to embrace nature-based learning and education programming, recognizing its numerous benefits for children and communities. For example, states like Oregon and Washington have implemented policies that promote outdoor classrooms and nature immersion programs, leading to improved cognitive, social, and emotional development in children. Research has shown that children who engage in nature-based learning exhibit increased creativity, enhanced problem-solving skills, and improved physical health.

Moreover, nature-based education not only benefits children but also strengthens communities. By fostering a connection to the environment, these programs encourage stewardship and responsibility toward nature, creating a generation of environmentally conscious individuals. Communities that prioritize outdoor learning also see increased family engagement, as parents and caregivers participate in nature-based activities alongside their children.

As we prepare to welcome the National Caucus of Environmental Learning to our Imua Discovery Garden, we are excited about the potential impact of this gathering. Together, we will explore how to expand access to nature-based early childhood education, ensuring that all children in Hawaii have the opportunity to learn and grow in a nurturing, outdoor environment. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach this important event and join us in celebrating the power of nature in e