The Walden Woods Project offers a wide range of educational programs, inspired by the life of Henry David Thoreau, for local and global audiences of all ages. Our programs foster an ethic of environmental stewardship and social responsibility, both cornerstones of Thoreau’s philosophy. The programs and resources below are offered at no cost or a very low cost to participants.
Let us be your guide online or on-site, right here in Walden Woods. We welcome the opportunity to work with you to adapt one of our existing programs—or come up with a new program—to meet your needs!
Public Lectures and Forums
As Thoreau was an advocate of life-long learning, we offer a variety of programs for audiences of all ages, bringing people together to explore the extensive ways in which Thoreau’s words and actions have current-day application—and to recognize those who embody Thoreau in their daily work, service and research. Most of our public programs are free to attend.
- Upcoming Events
- Stewardship Lecture Series
- Bring your group to Walden Woods — we will work with you to plan a meaningful, memorable visit for your school, church, business or other group!
Professional Development Opportunities
Our highly interactive, place-based programs equip educators with the skills and knowledge necessary to facilitate learning about the writing, life and philosophy of Henry David Thoreau, while nurturing students’ own sense of place and environmental ethic. We welcome educators from a wide range of disciplines, reflecting the variety of skills and interests of Thoreau and the breadth of his legacy. Graduate credit options are available for most of our professional development programs.
- Approaching Walden Professional Development Summer Program
- Professional Development Workshops
- We’d love to design a unique PD program for your group–Inquire Here
Curricular Resources
Whether or not you are able to join us for one of our Professional Development programs, we aim to provide educators with a rich pool of curricular resources to help teach about Thoreau, Transcendentalism, sense of place, social reform, journaling and other topics that grow out of Thoreau’s legacy.
- Henry’s HatSM Curriculum for Grades 3-5
- The Walden Pond and Woods App
- Thoreau-Inspired Curriculum Units created by our program alumni
- Environmental Ethics Activity Guide (PDF)
- Thoreau Coloring Pages
- Let’s Talk Thoreau: A Digital Conversation
- Live Deliberately Essay Contest for ages 14-18
- Journaling Resources
- Bring your students to Walden Woods!
- World Wide Waldens student environmental action resources
- Ask the Curator—Have a question about Thoreau? Ask our resident Thoreau scholar!
Programs and Educational Resources for Students
The Walden Woods Project is a resource for students who wish to learn about, read the works of or lead a more deliberate and simplified life inspired by Henry David Thoreau. Whether reading Thoreau for a class or setting out on your own journey of discovery, we have the resources you need.
- Live Deliberately Essay Contest
- Volunteer or intern at The Walden Woods Project!
- Learn about Thoreau
- Journaling Resources
- World Wide Waldens student environmental action resources
- Thoreau Coloring Pages
- Ask the Curator—Have a question about Thoreau? Ask our resident Thoreau scholar!
Don’t see what you are looking for? Contact Sarah Walker in the education dept. with questions and/or to discuss ways we can help meet your programmatic and educational goals. Email: sarah.walker@walden.org
