Overview

Taking a practical and optimistic approach to environmental issues, this accessible text clearly explains the key concepts around sustainability and shows how sustainable habits can be embedded in early years settings. It explores the opportunities and eco-friendly practices that can be offered inside and outside in the setting and home environments, as well as in the local community. Drawing on the authors’ extensive experience and linking to the Eco-Schools programme, the book reveals the positive impact that small changes can make to children, families, and staff. Chapters cover: • Eco-friendly environments indoors, outdoors, and beyond • The role of Forest Schools • Economic sustainability • Healthy eating and environmental sustainability • Understanding the wider impact of our actions and the power of community • Creating a development plan and celebrating success Packed with fun facts, case studies and examples, tips, and reflection points, this is essential reading for all early years practitioners and students.

Full Product Details

9781041079583

Table of Contents

Reviews

“This powerful publication brings together care, passion, knowledge and commitment to sustainable practices in early childhood. Zoё, Santa and Becky step the reader through the ‘what’ and ‘why’ of sustainability, guiding us to their core message that sustainability is as much about mindset and attitudes, culture and practices as it is about understanding the issues. This publication will be of immense interest and benefit to students and academics alike. It builds on research and applies local experience and expertise to early childhood pedagogy, practice and provision. The book speaks to the power of one and highlights how we can support young children of all ages to love and care for the world around them. This is a definite for our library!” - Dr. Marlene McCormack, Assistant Professor, Dublin City University “If you want to increase environmental education and make your nursery more sustainable, this is the book for you! It’s packed with great advice and creative ideas, drawn directly from the experience of early years practitioners. When it comes to sustainability in nurseries, Acorn Early Years is a leading voice. It’s a must-read!” - Adam Flint, Manager, Eco-Schools England

Author Information

Zoë Raven is the founder and CEO of Acorn Early Years, a charitable social enterprise which she grew from a single nursery to an organisation which currently runs 18 day nurseries, forest schools, out-of-school and holiday clubs, training, and consultancy. The organisation has previously won the Nursery World Nursery Group of the Year and the Nursery World Eco-Friendly Early Years Award. Santa Svike is the Sustainability & Governance Lead for Acorn Early Years. She works directly with the Eco-Lead practitioners at each of Acorn’s nurseries, to support their nursery on its sustainability journey. In 2025, Santa supported 14 of Acorn’s nurseries in achieving the Eco-Schools Green Flag Award. Becky Watanabe is the Early Years Manager for Quality for Acorn Early Years, and is also a trainer and consultant, inspiring and supporting early years professionals to maintain high quality practice and provision.

Tab Content 6

Countries Available