Embracing childhood and connecting children to the natural world

Just like Montessori, Reggio Emilia or Waldorf, Nature School is an educational philosophy. Nature Schools encompass both fully outdoor and indoor/outdoor settings, with an emphasis on using natural materials for learning and connecting children to the natural world.

Forest Schools were first recognized in the UK in 1995 but can be traced back to the late 1800s and early 1900s. Erin Kenney and Robin Rogers are credited with establishing Cedarsong, the first Forest Kindergarten in the United States, a fully outdoor preschool located in Washington.

Basing itself on the German forest kindergarten (Waldkindergarten) model, Cedarsong set the bar for nature/forest schools by exemplifying a commitment to an outdoor curriculum, nature immersion (as defined by Erin Kenney as “unstructured free time in nature resulting in an intimate, deep, and personal connection to the natural world”), interest-led/child-driven learning, and the teacher’s role as a mentor and guide, “modeling curiosity and engagement.”

Research strongly supports nature-based education for young children across all areas of development. Cognitive learning includes the development of “academic performance, language, STEM skills, critical thinking, scientific reasoning, [imagination,] and creativity.” Social-emotional development encompasses “self-concept, teamwork, leadership, initiative, locus of control and resiliency,” while physical development—the foundation for all subsequent learning—focuses on ‘health, neurological integration, vestibular and proprioception [and interoception] development, immune system, and eyesight.*

At Star Child Nature School learning is child-led, with educational goals achieved through experiences in nature. Connecting children to the natural world fosters compassion and reverence, while participating in purposeful activities builds self-confidence and independence. Environmental education—fostering respect for and curiosity about the plant, animal, and mineral kingdoms, and developing all domains of the child (physical, social, emotional, cognitive, aesthetic, and spiritual) through multi-sensory experiences—is at the heart of our program. Fully immersive outdoor play develops not only the five senses but all eight, including the vestibular system (body movement), proprioception (body awareness), and interoception (condition of the body). Each of these is needed for young children to truly thrive.

Nature school is an all-weather philosophy. By celebrating what each season has to offer—rain, snow, and sunshine—we learn resilience, discover change, and embrace variety.

* Thank you to Jessica Kiley founder of Blue Ridge Forest School for much of this information.

We pride ourselves on offering small class sizes. The student-to-teacher ratios are:

2-turning-3-year-olds
2 teachers : 6 children

3-turning-4-year-olds
2 teachers : 8 children

4-turning-5-year-olds
2 teachers : 12 children

5–10-year-olds
3 teachers : 16 children

5–10-year-olds home school sessions
1 teacher : 8 children

Tuition costs vary based on the class, the number of days per week, and enrollment in the extended day option. We are proud to offer small class sizes and a truly unique environment. Feel free to explore our programs here!

Child & Caregiver
Classes are $100 for a 5-week session.

2-turning 3-year-old
Classes $385 per month.

3-turning 4-year-old
Classes range from $385 to $1375 per month.

4-turning 5-year-old
Classes range from $360 to $1350 per month.

5-10 years old
Class is $1040 per month.

5-10 years old home school
Class ranges from $525 to $1000 per 7-week session.

Children must be of age by October 1st of the school year.

Yes. A 10% sibling discount is offered for the second child attending, 20% for the third child, and so on.

Classes run September 5, 2024 – June 13, 2025. You can find the school calendar here!

Children must be of age by October 1st of the school year.

Star Child’s trained and certified teachers are committed to providing holistic experiences for each child in their care. Drawing from Waldorf, Montessori, and Reggio Emilia philosophies, our learning experiences are developmentally appropriate and focus on what individual children are ready for. The curriculum is play-based and child-centered. Our focus is on connecting or reconnecting children to the natural world through discovery, exploration, and environmental education. Stories are used to build comprehension and literacy readiness; team-building and social skills are fostered, enabling children to work together, ask for help, and take on leadership or executor roles. Question-asking is encouraged as we learn together; botany, biology, physics, and engineering are naturally integrated into our day.

While we believe academic readiness is important in early childhood, it is not our main focus. We will support vocabulary growth through conversation, teach letters and letter sounds, math concepts, and critical thinking during interactive, play-based experiences. However, our primary goal for children aged 2½ to 5 is to develop sensory integration through sensory experiences and a connection to nature. Sensory integration is the foundation upon which all emotional and cognitive learning builds. Without a strong sensory and physical base, future learning cannot properly evolve. Connections to nature are made through observing and participating in seasonal changes, identifying plants and animals, and using natural materials for building, creating, and imagining.

Documentation comes in the form of photographs, observations, and notes. This not only provides a way for you to glimpse into your child’s day but also shares the developmental experiences your child is engaging in. Conferences and conversations are always welcome. If parents or teachers feel it is necessary to discuss concerns or the need for professional evaluation, a time to talk will be arranged.

Please remember that not all learning is tangible, such as recognizing numbers or reading at age four. Being socially capable, compassionate, able to self-regulate, and unafraid to ask questions are significant aspects of grade school readiness. Skills such as creative thinking, problem-solving, and simply being a friend to someone in need are characteristics to value. The ability to sit at a desk, pay attention, and have self-confidence comes from sensory-based learning experiences. Academics will come to all when they are ready; our goal is to prepare your child for that moment and embrace it when it arrives.

As children arrive, teachers and friends welcome each child by asking how their morning was, complimenting a new haircut or clothing choice, or inquiring about special events previously discussed. The children know they will be spending the day learning, connecting, and having fun. After saying their ‘see-you-soons’ to parents, they will gather with their group and teacher(s) as they prepare to spend time together.

A typical day at Nature School begins with meeting at our nature play space. Children gather with their class and get into their gear. At Nature School, we are prepared for all types of weather—rain, snow, and sun—and have gear to keep us warm in the winter and dry in the rain, allowing for a full range of sensory experiences. We’ll pack our necessities (snack, water bottles, activities) and set out for our destination, whether it’s home base, the art area, the building area, the big hill, the garden, or the goats.

As the year progresses, we become more stable on our feet and stronger in our legs as we grow familiar with the land. Landmarks help us navigate our surroundings. The children will have circle time songs and participate in teacher-led group activities using natural materials, art, and storytelling. They’ll also have plenty of time for free, creative, and purposeful play, discovery, and exploration. These special spaces may include the meadow for discovering insects, the climbing hill for strengthening our legs, or the building area for learning life skills such as using a hammer and nails (with adult supervision).”

Our fully outdoor format fosters a healthier approach to early childhood education. The open spaces allow for purposeful play and large muscle movement. Learning objects are found all around us, such as using acorns and pinecones to create patterns or painting with pine needle brushes. Imagination and problem-solving skills are sparked as the children discover new and innovative ways to create with found objects. Self-confidence grows as children develop physical capabilities, providing a strong foundation for future emotional and cognitive learning.

Snack will be shared picnic-style. We believe in the benefits of clean, organic whole foods to nourish our bodies, and choosing predominately unprocessed foods. As we enjoy our meal together, we’ll chat about the highlights of the day, what we’re grateful for, and what we’re excited to do when we meet again. As parents and caregivers arrive, we’ll bid farewell to our friends until next time.

After you enroll, we’ll provide a gear guide for you. You can also find it under Gear List! It is important to ensure that well-fitting, high-quality items are chosen for your child’s comfort. Gear can be purchased at thrift stores and on Facebook yard sale pages to save money. Star Child families often have hand-me-downs for incoming students, so just let us know!

We will use the barn as a shelter in case of a sudden thunderstorm. If possible, we will finish the day there; if not, parents will be called to pick up their children early. The decision will be made as early as possible.

Children will be encouraged to use the bathroom at drop-off as part of their routine. If a child needs to use the bathroom while in the woods, a portable potty will be provided. We have year-round access to bathrooms and sinks near our nature play space. Wipes, hand sanitizer, and waterless soap will be provided to clean hands if a running water source is not available.

Don’t worry about potty training—your child doesn’t need to be potty trained to join us! We recommend changing your child’s diaper at drop-off. Since our program is three hours long, we’ll check diapers before snack time (about 2 to 2½ hours into the class) and take care of any bowel movements right away. Please make sure your child’s backpack has plenty of diapers and wipes. If needed, our teachers will use gloves and wipes or waterless soap to keep everything clean, even if there’s no running water available. Be sure to check your child’s diaper at pick-up time.

Snack is provided by Star Child families. Your child will be assigned a snack day by their class teacher, and we ask for clean, healthy, low- or no-sugar foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains. Dairy items like cheese or yogurt are also welcome. We will inform you of any food allergies in the class to be mindful of. Typically, you’ll provide snacks about twice a month, depending on the class size and schedule.

If your child has any food allergies or dietary restrictions, including vegan preferences, please let Melissa Sheppard or Kelly DelPalazzo know right away. Also, please send your child with a daily supply of water, juice, or tea in a sturdy, labeled refillable water bottle. Teachers will have water on hand for refills.