Branching Out: Accessible Nature-Based Learning and the Role of Play Schemas
Outdoor play offers rich opportunities for learning and participation—especially for young children with multiple disabilities. This session explores how accessible, nature-based experiences can support communication, motor development, sensory regulation, problem-solving, and emotional well-being. Drawing on developmental theory, play schemas, and nature-play practices, participants will learn how to design inclusive outdoor environments that engage the “eight senses” and invite meaningful participation. Practical strategies, assistive technology tools, and real-world examples will empower educators to create outdoor spaces where every child can explore, communicate, and thrive.
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What You'll Learn
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
LEARNING LEVEL
PRESENTED BY
Jennifer Keenan
(Nature-Based Assistive Technology Specialist)
The Maryland School for the Blind
Jennifer Keenan brings over 30 years of experience working with young learners with visual impairments and multiple disabilities. A dedicated advocate for accessible, nature-based learning, Jennifer integrates her experience as a Master Naturalist, Master Gardener, and Animal-Assisted Therapy provider to create meaningful, multisensory outdoor experiences for all children. Her work focuses on inclusive environmental design, sensory-rich learning, and the use of assistive technology to support communication and engagement. Passionate about the natural world, Jennifer enjoys exploring national parks and outdoor spaces, continually seeking new ways to connect children with nature in ways that foster independence, curiosity, and joy.
THE SCOOP
Sunday, February 15, 2026, 12:30 -1:20 PM Pacific Time
Access to this live session is free during the 2026 Live AAC Early Starts Conference. Attendees can watch recordings and obtain continuing education credits with paid enrollment or an All Access Membership.
You can watch this conference session live for free. Continuing education credit is available with paid enrollment in this course or an active All Access Membership. Members and paid enrollees get access to the recording and continuing education quiz + certificate for this session.
Save as a Member: All Access Members get FREE access to certificates and session recordings for the entire conference (+ our staple course library of over 80 online courses) with their paid membership.
Save as a Member: All Access Members get FREE access to certificates and session recordings for the entire conference (+ our staple course library of over 80 online courses) with their paid membership.
You can watch this conference session live for free. Continuing education credit via PDH is available with paid enrollment in this course or an active All Access Membership. Members and paid enrollees get access to the recording and continuing education quiz + certificate for this session.
Save as a Member: All Access Members get FREE access to certificates and session recordings for the entire conference (+ our staple course library of over 80 online courses) with their paid membership.
CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT
This session offers a total of
1 certification maintenance hour (CMH)
1 certification maintenance hour (CMH)
Learn more about CMH/PDH (versus CEU's or continuing education units) on your course syllabus and on our CEU Page. All learners are encouraged to confirm that this course meets the requirements of their licensing board before purchasing.
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Learn about Grid AAC by Smartbox
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Play for Every Body
The theme for #AACES2026 is "Play for Every Body." Play is the heartbeat of childhood — but for many children with disabilities, play isn’t always accessible. Our Play for Every Body campaign is about opening doors: adapting environments, rethinking routines, and equipping families and professionals with practical strategies. When we say Play for Every Body, we mean every child, every ability, every body.