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Forest Kindergarten Enrichment Program
(Ages 5-6)
Our kindergarten enrichment day program is for families looking to create a balance between remote learning and socialization through nature-based play in a small group setting. This class is tailored for kindergartners and is meant to supplement their homeschool/virtual school studies.
At Nature Connect we foster a child’s sense of wonder and play through games, songs and stories. Each day has a theme that explores the natural world through movement, play and curiosity. Crafts using materials found in the woods help to develop fine motor skills and an appreciation for our natural resources. Children are also introduced to plant, animal, and bird identification through stories and direct observation. We also help the children explore their physical and problem-solving abilities while navigating the woods around them.
2020-2021 Academic Year *ENROLLMENT NOW OPEN*
Tuesdays and/or Thursdays
Church of the Apostles, Fairhope
9am-1pm
October 13, 2020 – May 27, 2021
(24 Week Program - Classes do not meet in January)
See calendar for holidays and breaks.
See Tuition and Fees here.
Enrollment requirements:
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Because we learn in an outdoor classroom without walls, children must be able to stay with the group and follow instructions most of the time.
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Children must show respect towards peers, teachers, nature, and the church property.
Want to try it out for a day, observe one of our classes, or take a campus tour? Let us know!
Register for a drop-off trial day here or email us us at info@natureconnectalabama.org to schedule an observation hour.
What makes us unique?
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100% Outdoors - We spend all of our class time outdoors, unless there is severe weather. This means we get dirty and even play in the rain! We love exploring in the woods and at the creek and learning about the beautiful place where we live. If we do need an indoor space, we have a Montessori-style classroom where we can continue our studies.
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Small Class Size and Low Teacher to Student Ratio - We keep our class size small and our teacher to student ratio is one:six (or better), which means individual attention and care to each child's needs.
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Nature-based Curriculum - Our nature-based curriculum incorporates a hands-on, experiential approach and the development of the whole-child. Read more about our curriculum and philosophies here.
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Flexible, Child-led Nature Exploration - Our nature exploration is focused on our local environment and the plants and animals that live here. If we find a turtle in the woods or a salamander in the creek, that becomes our lesson. We believe learning happens the most when children have that "spark" in their eye.
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Highly-trained Staff that love what they do - We hire the highest quality teachers in the area because we know who is with your child is incredibly important. Our teachers are well-trained, trustworthy, and experienced caregivers who love the work that they do. We provide ongoing staff development and opportunities for continuing education.
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Room for Creative Play - We believe that children are meant to play and use their imaginations. That is what makes childhood special. Our staff see themselves as facilitators of the children's experience, holding the space for them to explore, learn, and play in the outdoors.
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Physical Activity - We run, jump, slide, balance, and climb all throughout the day. Nature is the best playground! Children develop their physical capabilities and learn to be resilient in our classes. If the children need rest, we make space for that to happen as well. Whatever the child's energy level, we work with it.
