From Memoir to Method

Reimagining Early Years Education for Sustainable Development through the Eco-Schools Handbook for Early Years

From Memoir to Method traces how research from a Master’s thesis on sustainability in Early Years education was translated into the Eco-Schools Handbook for Early Years. It connects research on climate-responsive education, play-based learning, nature as an educator, case studies and whole-school approaches with the practical design of a resource for educators.

The article argues that research gains value when it moves into practice: the memoir provides the pedagogical thinking, while the handbook transforms those ideas into activities, frameworks and tools that schools can use. At its core is the idea that sustainability should not simply be taught as a topic, but experienced through play, everyday routines, environments, relationships and participation.