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About the founder

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Welcome! Bem-vindos!​

I'm so glad you're here!

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My name is Graziela Murad, and I'm an Early Childhood and Environmental Educator and Leader, Preschool Director, and lifelong advocate for nature-based learning. I hold a Master's degree in both Early Childhood Studies and Environmental Education for Sustainable Societies.

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With over 18 years of experience in early childhood education, I've had the joy of leading educational teams, designing school outreach programs, and facilitating hands-on, nature-based learning experiences for young children. Watching a child discover the world around them — with curiosity wide open and hands in the soil — is, without a doubt, my greatest passion.

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My mission is simple: to help children explore their world and deepen their connection with nature. I believe that when children learn to love the natural world, they grow into people who protect it.

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Growing up in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, I was immersed in the richness of diverse cultures and the beauty of a natural environment that invited exploration at every turn.

When I moved to the United States, I brought that appreciation with me. Since then, I've designed numerous multicultural programs for children — because learning about other cultures fills me with as much excitement as sharing my own.

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In 2015, I founded Natural Discovery, a space to share my expertise in environmental education and my enthusiasm for exotic animals, cross-cultural connections, and the vital importance of helping children connect with natural elements.

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Then, inspired by the stunning natural landscapes of Fort Collins, Colorado, I launched Natural Discovery Kids in 2026 — a program born from the belief that the best learning happens outdoors, in community, and with joy.

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None of this would have been possible without the friends, mentors, and colleagues who have walked alongside me on this journey. I'm deeply grateful for every person who has helped shape these programs into what they are today.

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Thank you for stopping by — I hope our paths cross soon!

Relevant Professional Qualifications 

2022-2023 

MS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD STUDIES - ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND LEADERSHIP

Walden University

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2021  

Entrepreneurship Specialization

Wharton University of Pennsylvania Online by Coursera

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2019 

Nature-Based Teacher Certification - Level 1 & 2 

Eastern Region Association of Forest and Nature Schools (ERAFANS) - USA 

 

2018 - 2019 

Strategic Leadership and Management Specialization  

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign by Coursera - Ilinois - USA 

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2010 - 2011

Environmental Education for Sustainable Societies Specialization 

Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro. Rio de Janeiro – Brazil 

 

2010 

Extension Course in Environmental Education 

Aqualung Ecologic Institute. Rio de Janeiro – Brazil 

 

2006 - 2009 

Bachelor of Science

Saint Ursula University. Rio de Janeiro – Brazil 

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