Spring has sprung in Arkansas, and it’s time to head Outside for 5!

Studies show that outdoor learning can help learners increase attention, be more motivated to learn, strengthen resilience, and control impulses more effectively. AEEA and partner organizations are encouraging educators and other outdoor facilitators across North America to participate in the Outside for 5 campaign this April.

  • Spend at least 5 minutes a day, 5 days a week, or any meaningful amount of time learning outside with students.
  • Support outdoor learning efforts in schools.
  • Connect with other local educators and outdoor professionals.

governor's proclamation declaring April 21-27 as Outside for 5 Week in Arkansas

Let’s embrace this beautiful time of year by participating in the Outside for 5 campaign this April. You can participate all month and especially the week of April 21-27, which has been declared Outside for Five Week in Arkansas by Governor Sanders.

After any facilitator signs-up, they’ll receive a series of emails with tips, resources, and other ways to engage with partners for the campaign. You’ll become a part of a larger community committed to outdoor learning.

Follow along here and on social media throughout the month for inspiration from Arkansas educators.

Check out the Outside for 5 website for resources and to sign the pledge to participate.

What Can Outside for 5 Look Like in Arkansas?

Explore The Natural State:

Keep it close to school and home:

Keep it going all year:

These are a sample of ideas to get you started. The benefits of learning in the outdoors are numerous. Step outside, destress, and explore The Natural State this spring (and all year long).


“I support outdoor learning because I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it can be through my work with AGFC. Nature isn’t just a backdrop it’s a classroom that sparks curiosity, hands-on learning experiences, and real world problem solving. Whether it’s exploring wildlife, understanding ecosystems, or just learning outside, students engage more deeply and develop critical thinking skills. Plus, studies have shown time outdoors improves focus, creativity, and well being. I believe in giving students the chance to connect with nature, because when they do, they don’t just learn, they grow!” Raven Harris, Assistant Chief, Education Division, Arkansas Game & Fish Commission

My current interests are building out Conservation lessons and making them accessible and supporting our Becoming An Outdoor Woman Program and Adaptive Recreation. I’m working on getting our all terrain chairs in our nature centers and our recreational programs like archery adaptive for those with disabilities, assisting with the start of a student organization called “Generation Conservation” where students get to network and build skills that would help build up our workforce in and around wildlife and conservation, and I’m apart of a team that is sponsoring the Arkansas Graveler that is owned and operated by The Ozark Foundation that focuses on creating fun and enriching outdoor experiences in NW Arkansas.

Liz Hill, Education and Community Program Manager at Ozark Natural Science Center, supports outdoor learning year round through field trips, guided hikes, professional development, public workshops (including nature journaling), camps, and more!

Stephanie Jordan, Garden Coordinator at Fayetteville Public Schools, is getting students across the district Outside for 5. From Washington Elementary School 1st graders all the way to Fayetteville High School AP Environmental Science students building No Mow spaces – outdoor learning helps all students! 

“At the North Little Rock Public Library, we support outdoor learning by hosting nature-focused programs that encourage curiosity and connection with the environment. From our Hope for Future Film Club to hands-on activities with kids, we inspire our community to step outside and explore. We have an amazing collection of nature books for all ages, a dedicated nature club for kids, and many EE-focused STEAM programs. Plus, our Library of Things offers resources like telescopes and magnifying glasses to help patrons engage with nature—from gazing at the stars to observing the smallest creatures up close. Through these programs and resources, we encourage lifelong exploration of the natural world.” Sydney Mullins-Britt, Community Educator at North Little Rock Public Library System

Jackie Scott, Science Teacher at Mann Arts and Science Magnet Middle School, sees the benefits of outdoor learning firsthand. “Outdoor learning is so incredibly important for all students for so many reasons. Letting all kids see and experience the outdoors in a safe and educational way helps with students’ confidence inside and out of the classroom as well as their overall mental health. I have seen a huge shift in my students as we spend time outside. They are more confident, calm and engaged. My students want to talk to the adults who come and talk to them about what they are doing outside. My students are more engaged with the material that we are learning. Whether it is 5 minutes or 50 minutes outside, that time is so incredibly valuable!”


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