FRI-FS-12: Creating Authentic Nature Exploration Experiences

Friday, November 11, 2022

12:30pm – 5:00pm PT

Location: Moscone Center, Field Session Departure Area 1, Lobby Level South

3.25 PDH, LA CES/HSW, AICP, FL, NY/HSW
Ticket Price: $70 per person; includes transportation and water. Moderate walking.

Field Session Leader(s)

Maria Durana

Director of the SF Children & Nature Collaborative
San Francisco Recreation and Park Department
San Francisco, California
Amy C. Miller

Director of Public Programs and Academy Volunteers
California Academy of Sciences
San Francisco, California

Field Session Presenter(s)

Stephanie Hansen, ASLA

Landscape Architect
Bienenstock Natural Playgrounds
Fort Collins, Colorado
Donna DiBartolomeo, Ed.M.

Senior Director of Exhibits
California Academy of Sciences
San Francisco, California
Dave Rexworthy

Studio Manager
Bienenstock Natural Playgrounds
Hamilton, Ontario
Jen DeMelo

Senior Strategist, Org Innovation & Strategic Partnerships
KABOOM!

Unstructured outdoor play isn’t just kid’s stuff—it is essential for the healthy development of minds and bodies. Experience the growing trend of nature play with us and gather valuable industry insight from new hands-on spaces that activate and encourage our instinctive curiosity about the natural world.

Learning Outcomes:

Our audience will learn how our San Francisco partnerships came together to locally source and repurpose natural materials for play, exploration and ecological restoration.
Attendees will understand how designed spaces can improve the mental and physical health for all ages and abilities by providing access to nature within their communities.
Learn how to navigate various codes, policies and laws, such as ADA and ASTM, both locally and nationally in order to provide inclusive authentic nature experiences.
Group members will learn best practices in community engagement when collaboratively designing nature spaces.