Mission

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We believe that each child should cultivate a lifelong meaningful relationship with the natural world. We provide the connection between children and nature through unstructured play, healthy risk taking, and exploratory learning while encouraging children to have empathy towards all living things.

 

Program Philosophy

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We use the natural world around us as the guiding theme to frame our core curriculum areas of science, art, math, music, language, and literacy. The program is play-based, place-based, and student-driven.

Our rhythm includes spontaneous play, movement, exploration, observation, discovery, circle time, storytelling, creating, and reflection. Lessons emerge throughout the day and there is generous space provided for learning to flow from interest and discoveries which nature provides from season to season.

Physical safety is our highest priority. Teachers carry a radio, a first aid kit, a list of all children’s emergency contact, and medical information.

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Benefits of a Forest Education 

 

Our program is modeled after the "forest schools" popular in Germany and Finland and growing in popularity in the United States, where children spend the majority of their day outside and lessons are guided by children's interest and curiosity. Research strongly suggests that time in nature can help children learn to build confidence in themselves; reduce the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and help with focus.

 

Richard Louv, the author of Last Child in the Woods and co-founder of the Children and Nature Network, said in an email. “There are some indications that natural play spaces can reduce bullying. It can also be a buffer to child obesity and overweight, and offers other psychological and physical health benefits.”

 

• Development of fine and gross motor skills

• Incorporates multiple learning styles

• Improves health (physical, emotional, mental)

• Promotes healthy risk-taking

• Encourages problem-solving skills

• Creates engaged and passionate learners

• Creates appreciation and respect for nature

• Supports creative thinking

• Boosts self-esteem

• Children experience fewer sick days

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Kindergarten and Life Readiness skills gained in our program:

 

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