The Nature Everywhere Conference will be held May 13-16, 2025 at Saint Paul RiverCentre to highlight programs, policies, and practices for creating equitable access to healthy outdoor experiences for children, families and communities.

This annual conference is the world’s largest gathering of the global children and nature movement, bringing together leaders in early childhood and K-12 education; youth development; environmental justice; climate resilience; family services; city, county and state agencies; healthcare and mental health; outdoor recreation and conservation; nonprofits and philanthropy.

“Once each year, these leaders come together to share their expertise, experiences and challenges,” Sarah Milligan-Toffler, President and CEO of the Children & Nature Network, said. “This is an exciting opportunity to learn from people who are driving change all over the world. Anyone interested in the health and well-being of children is welcome.”

A full schedule of more than 70 activities including general sessions, indoor and outdoor breakout sessions, TED-style talks, meet-ups, early riser presentations, poster session, exhibit hall and more can be found here. Information about speakers and presenters can be found here.

The conference, now in its tenth year, is known for offering a blend of both inspiration and real-world solutions. The event will feature presentations focused around seven key areas:

● Early childhood nature connection

● Perspectives of youth, people of color, Indigenous communities and/or other historically excluded voices

● The importance of nature access for health and well-being for individuals and communities

● Policies or civic engagement strategies that can drive systems change

● Green schoolyards

● Outdoor and nature-based learning

● Proven, promising or emerging practices to advance equity and inclusion, honor traditional knowledge or support environmental justice

Research proves that spending time in nature is essential for children’s healthy development, from supporting physical and mental health to improving academic outcomes and social-emotional skills. But today’s children average as little as 10 minutes a day playing and learning outdoors. 

“Today’s indoor, on-screen childhood has profound implications for the well-being of children — and the natural world,” Milligan-Toffler said. “In May, more than 600 cross-sector leaders will attend the Nature Everywhere Conference to reverse this trend by advancing proven strategies for connecting children to nature everywhere they live, learn and play."

FOR MEMBERS OF THE MEDIA:

A limited number of press passes are available for media interested in reporting on the conference and/or the children and nature movement. To request a press pass, contact media@childrenandnature.org.

About the Children & Nature Network:

The Children & Nature Network believes, and research proves, that regular time outdoors is essential for children’s healthy development. The nonprofit organization leads a global movement of leaders, educators, practitioners and parents working to ensure equitable access to the benefits of nature everywhere children live, learn and play. Learn more at childrenandnature.org and get connected on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and The Trailhead, a free online community for global children and nature leaders.