In Mud: Nature-based early childhood education
Spring in the Tetons begins with mud!
Saturday, May 3rd, 2025
9:00 am – 4:00 pm MST
Based on Teton Science Schools’ Jackson Campus
Price: $110
Spring in the Tetons begins with mud! Come join us for our 8th annual In Mud Workshop. We are excited to welcome Sue Ford, a Pediatric Occupational Therapist, as our keynote speaker. Sue’s focus on nature-based learning and the power of nature and movement to help children develop the skills of emotional regulation, adaptability, and resilience will drive the theme for In Mud 2025.
Workshop sessions will explore opportunities with movement in nature for skills development in young learners, and we will spend time outside together exploring these topics. Following the morning keynote, participants will have the opportunity to peek into classrooms and then take a journey to Rendezvous Park, near the Jackson Campus.
Recommended for Early Childhood Educators: preschool through lower elementary school. 7 STARS hours are available or a certificate of completion.
There is an option to stay overnight at TSS on Friday, May 5, 2023. For those who stay on Friday evening, lodging and breakfast the following morning will be an additional $125.
This program will be based at our Jackson Campus (700 Coyote Canyon Road, Jackson, WY 83001).
Lunch and snacks will be provided during the day.
There is an option to stay overnight at TSS on Friday, May 2nd, 2025 with arrivals from 5-7 pm. For those who stay on Friday evening, lodging and breakfast the following morning will be an additional $125. Recommended for Early Childhood Educators: preschool through lower elementary school.
In mid-April, we will share sign-up options for the workshop sessions.
Cancellation Policy: If canceled more than 30 days prior, there is a $25 fee. Within 30 days, no refunds.
Description on keynote
Sue Ford is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist, Infant Massage Educator, Reiki Master, and the founder of Coorie Wellness in Kittery, Maine. With over 20 years of experience working with children and families, Sue is deeply committed to supporting health, wellness, and emotional
resilience. Her journey has taken her through a variety of settings, including private practice, early intervention, school-based services, and community education, giving her an understanding and perspective of the unique needs and experiences of children and families.
Sue is passionate about nature-based learning and draws on her background as an outdoor educator to help schools incorporate natural spaces and creative movement into their programs. She believes in the power of nature and movement to help children—and the adults who support them—develop the skills of emotional regulation, adaptability, and resilience.
Her approach focuses on equipping families, educators, and children with simple, practical tools that encourage connection, foster mind-body awareness, and help everyone thrive in their everyday lives.
Sue has had the privilege of sharing her experiences at In Bloom Conferences at Antioch University, the New Hampshire Montessori Association, and various teacher and parent workshops across New England. Outside of her work, Sue enjoys spending time with her husband, three children, and two dogs, exploring the beauty of New England’s seacoast and mountains.
