Autumn: so many sweaters, so many feels.

Autumn is my absolute favorite season. I grew up in Ohio and Illinois, where fall meant back to school clothes, crisp air, apple cider and long walks with my family in the woods. Things were not always perfect in my childhood; not all of my memories are cozy ones. In relation to school, I loved learning and lived for my teachers. But I didn’t always feel like I belonged. We moved many times in my childhood because of my father’s job. I was “new” so many times throughout those years. I remember anxiously scanning the classroom to see if I could find a friendly face. Wondering who my first friend would be. And I think it informed my teaching style and the environment I wanted to create for children. Most of my friends are teachers, and we all value creating positive learning environments for kids. Part of that is making school a positive memory for them. Making sure their work is seen and validated. Creating a space that their families, whoever they call family, are welcome and represented. Giving them the tools and space to identify their feelings and express themselves.

We need that too. We cannot create an inclusive and supportive environment for our students when we do not have access to that as well. That’s what Nurture Our Nature Collective is all about. So, I want to know is important to you.

What can we do to support you?

What would most like to have this space to offer you?

Let’s create this together and give to ourselves what we give to others!

Drop what you need and what you might like to offer in the comments below!

In gratitude,

Emily

A photograph of a quilt with the words “You Belong” on it, surrounded by plants with dark foliage.