Learning Environments for All to Flourish
Welcome to the LEAF Initiative. We’re partnering with communities to ensure every child in Nebraska has the opportunity to flourish in nature-rich learning environments.
Learning Environments for All to Flourish
Welcome to the LEAF Initiative. We’re partnering with communities to ensure every child in Nebraska has the opportunity to flourish in nature-rich learning environments.
Now enrolling child care centers!
Funding Acknowledgement
LEAF Initiative is funded by a five-year Grand Challenges Catalyst Award from University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
Who We Are
The LEAF Initiative includes an interdisciplinary team of researchers, designers, educators and community partners. We work in collaboration with Nebraska Extension and partner organizations specializing in design, education and child development.
We are experts in:
- Psychology and neuroscience
- Landscape architecture
- Early childhood education and development
- Community-based education
Our mission is to enhance children’s health, development and learning by creating nature-rich environments within early childhood programs across Nebraska through collaboration, research and advocacy.
Our vision is for every child in Nebraska to experience healthy spaces that support learning, play and growth.
What We Do
The LEAF Initiative focuses on research, engagement and education to positively impact outcomes for children, caregivers and communities.
Research
We are building an innovative research program that merges design, developmental science and educational outcomes to enhance environments in early childhood programs across Nebraska.
Engagement
We are engaging with early childhood educators to provide professional development and design support for creating and maintaining nature-rich learning environments.
Education
We are providing education and hands-on training to UNL students, preparing them to become the next generation of teachers and designers who will carry on our mission.
Greener Spaces, Brighter Futures
Green space is essential for children’s mental, emotional and physical well-being. However, many children in Nebraska grow up with limited opportunities to play and explore in nature. Creating green space and nature-rich environments in early childhood programs creates lasting benefits for everyone — strengthening the future of our state.
Greener Spaces, Brighter Futures
Green space is essential for children’s mental, emotional and physical well-being. However, many children in Nebraska grow up with limited opportunities to play and explore in nature. Creating green space and nature-rich environments in early childhood programs creates lasting benefits for everyone — strengthening the future of our state.
Our Approach
To ensure long-term success, we use a community-based participatory approach that prioritizes:
- Community
- Collaboration
- Resilience
- Stewardship
Resilience
Developing strategies that help communities adapt and thrive over time.
Stewardship
Encouraging long-term responsibility and care for implemented solutions.
Community
Leveraging the expertise and lived experiences of community members.
Collaboration
Building strong partnerships to create shared solutions.