We are removing barriers and walls while encouraging confidence and decision-making.
These programs target children age 5 to 13 years old in a blended “leader and leaner” outdoor program. This is an all-weather group where children can explore nature, take guided risks, learn about plants and ecosystems, and be outside the four-wall setting. We will explore the woods together, dig, construct, climb, create, discover, and all the while we will be learning to make smart, educated decisions about our actions. Our facility has ample wooded areas and a pond. An indoor learning space will be available for days when the weather prohibits safely learning outside.
Visit our Fees page to learn more about pricing and schedules.
This program is child-led, and instructors will facilitate learning activities as opportunities present themselves. Here are some key highlights of our approach:
Narrative and Mythology:
We will be “strewing” potential elements of narrative (e.g: a small lean-to; figures made of sticks and twine and glitter; a little village of acorn houses, etc.) through the woods in order to encourage the creation of mythology around the elements.
Risk and Reward:
Children will be allowed to climb to heights that feel dangerous but are in fact safe, with guidance and spotting until they can discern on their own how far they can go safely.
Children will be allowed to touch plants and animals that are safe, but they will not be allowed to touch dangerous plants and animals; they will be taught to discern which are which.
Cooperation and Collaboration:
The group will conduct a morning meeting to discuss the projects at hand to plan future projects. The group has installed rain barrels, helped to maintain the community garden, created landscape features, built forts, and upcycled old materials to create or repair items.
Self-Awareness and Social Skills:
Explorers will be exposed to the same self-awareness ideas as their peers indoors. As the children advance in the co-op, having these common early co-op experiences will help them bond with the other students. They will learn how to work together to accomplish common goals. Facilitators will encourage a thoughtful and mature response to conflict.
Academics:
Scientific vocabulary
Literacy awareness
Mathematics Enrichment
Basic biology
Basic botany
Life skills
Safe tool use
Nature journaling with art and writing