What is nature-based education?

Nature-based education occurs mainly outdoors, through hands-on learning with the natural world. Nature-based schools spend most of their class time outdoors, and when inside for safety, nature themes are still integrated into the indoor classroom. Curriculums are also centered around nature-based play, curiosity, and learning.

What are the benefits of nature-based education?

Nature-based early education has many benefits that aid in development. Studies have shown that it is beneficial to social emotional development, promoting less stress in children. It also helps to decrease rates in illness and aides in sensory perception. According to NAEYC (National Association of Education for Young Children), “Nature-based programs are keenly attuned to the positive effects of outdoor learning such as improved physical strength, rich language development, direct experiences with science content, and opportunities for constructing and problem-solving with natural materials. But just as profound is children’s emotional development. Children develop self-awareness and a sense of belonging by playing and learning outdoors.”

Do you have a COVID-19 preparedness plan in place?

Yes, we continue to do everything we can to keep our staff and students safe. Please see our health + safety procedures here.

Will my child still be receiving education that includes kindergarten readiness practices and meeting developmental learning guidelines?

Absolutely! Nature-based education only promotes development and is used as a wonderful learning tool! Our indoor and outdoor spaces are equipped with science, math, music, art, dramatic play, mindfulness and quiet areas! Our curriculum also includes kindergarten readiness practices, as well as daily and weekly projects and activities, focusing on the five areas of early childhood development! Caregivers will also get classroom updates so they can follow along with themes and projects each week.

Are students outside in all weather conditions?

Class will be held outside whenever possible. Rain, snow, or sleet - If we can be outside, we will be outside. That being said, Minnesota definitely has its extremes, and we are firm in putting safety first. Lightning, severe storms, weather advisories, air quality alerts, or extreme temperatures will all taken seriously. In those cases, class will be held indoors. If temperatures are too low or too high, outdoor time will be limited with additional consideration of heat index and wind chills.