Parent-Child Forest School Experience
Parent-Child Forest School
Our Parent–Child Class is designed for young children ages 0–4, and their caregivers to explore the outdoors together in a gentle, supportive, and relationship-centered setting. Caregivers remain present for the entirety of the experience, participating alongside their child while educators guide the group’s rhythm and learning. Older siblings are welcome to join.
When & Where & Tuition:
When: Our Parent-Child sessions meet once a week throughout the year: Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer. Each session lasts from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or 11:30-3:00p.m.
Where: We meet in the local forested areas, where children and parents will enjoy easy hikes to our base camp and engage in nature-based activities tailored to each season. General location released during sign-ups. Exact meeting spot/coordinates will be sent via email after enrollment is complete.
- Tuition 2026:Winter and Summer are 11-week seasons at $250, and Spring and Fall are 12-week seasons at $275. Our tuition reflects a balance between affordability for families and thoughtful care for our educators, land, and seasonal offerings.
What to Expect:
What’s Included: Each week, families will explore a new theme related to the seasons and the natural world. Expect activities such as:
Easy hikes to our base camp, where the group gathers
Seasonal art projects using natural materials
Storytelling and songs
Learning about wildlife, plants, and ecosystems
Sensory play and mindfulness activities
Curriculum & Educational Approach: Our curriculum is uniquely designed for Beavers Forest School by our Education Coordinator and Executive Director. Rooted in forest school philosophy and guided by the rhythms of the land and seasons, it blends gentle structure, research-based practices, and community-centered learning. Child-led and developmentally intentional, it supports social-emotional growth, language development, and fine and gross motor skills, offering a thoughtful, holistic experience that nurtures the whole child.
Why Parent-Child Experiences?
Build Stronger Connections: The Parent-Child Forest School experience helps parents strengthen their bond with their children while supporting their natural curiosity and love for the outdoors.
Develop Life Skills: Children will develop social skills, resilience, and a deeper understanding of their environment.
Holistic Learning: This experience nurtures the whole child by supporting their emotional, physical, and intellectual growth through nature-based activities.
Details:
Family Size: Each group is designed to be small and intimate, typically with 8-10 families. This allows for personalized attention and ensures that each child has the opportunity to explore at their own pace.
- Missed Class: We understand life happens! While we are unable to provide refunds for missed days, please keep the lead mentor informed if your family will be away.
Safety and Support: Our experienced forest school leaders are there to guide and support families. They will assist with questions about nature, facilitate learning activities, and ensure a safe experience for all.
Parent Involvement: Parents are active participants in every session. The experience is not a drop-off class; we believe in learning together as a family, which strengthens the learning experience for both parent and child.
Enrollment: Enrollment is done per season, per family. This allows families to commit to a season and ensure their spot for the upcoming sessions.
Parent Guide: A Parent Guide will be sent out two weeks before the start of each season. This guide will provide you with all the details you need to prepare for the upcoming sessions, including what to bring, the schedule, and any other helpful tips.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
What should we bring?
Parents and children should come dressed for the weather and ready to get dirty! We recommend sturdy shoes, weather-appropriate outerwear, and a water bottle.
Do we need prior experience with nature-based learning?
Not at all! This experience is designed for families of all backgrounds, and we’ll guide you every step of the way.
How is the experience structured?
Each session starts with a welcome circle, followed by an easy hike to our base camp, where we’ll engage in outdoor activities and learning. We finish with a reflection time or story.
Spring 2026 Sign-Ups –
We’re excited to open enrollment for our Spring 2025! Our current community holds over 30 families and 60 children! We’re so excited to continue growing our community and welcoming even more families.
Our programs focus on slowing down, leaning into the seasons, and trusting in the wisdom of child-led, nature-based learning. Sign-ups will open March 1st at 5 PM—don’t miss your chance to join this next chapter of adventure and discovery!