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NATURE CAMPS
Our is in session from June through August
Monday - Friday; 7:30am to 4:30pm
Monday - Friday; 7:30am to 4:30pm
Down our charming gravel road, our lively nature tots convene each morning in an outdoor classroom. Here, they enjoy a warm cup of morning tea, preparing for the day's adventures. After a leisurely mile walk through our beautiful trail, we enjoy a shared snack and bonding time in our morning circle. Through immersive nature exploration, children guide their own learning with the support of their forest teacher. Our curriculum focuses on social and emotional development, evolving naturally from teamwork, problem-solving, and playtime.
With a comfortable 1:6 teacher to child ratio, we provide the flexibility and patience to allow an organic and child-centered curriculum to blossom. Our "free-range" approach fosters a unique childhood experience, promoting mindfulness and self-empowerment. Our program runs from June through August, with a "pick and choose" your week to camp options.
Come join us for an enchanting journey in nature!
With a comfortable 1:6 teacher to child ratio, we provide the flexibility and patience to allow an organic and child-centered curriculum to blossom. Our "free-range" approach fosters a unique childhood experience, promoting mindfulness and self-empowerment. Our program runs from June through August, with a "pick and choose" your week to camp options.
Come join us for an enchanting journey in nature!
Why Forest School?
Forest School is unique mostly because its a type of early childhood education that is held mostly outdoors in all weather. The curriculum is typically child-led and play-based that's main focus is on fostering curiosity and exploration of the child.
Due to these distinctive and ever-growing schools being led by the children's own interests and curiosity, no two classes are the same. If children are consumed with exploring the land, our planned lesson may be pushed out in order seize that teaching moment and explore different trees we are finding or encourage the building of a fort that has already been started. At Nature Tots Preschool, our lessons are intentionally prepared and presented with our individual students in mind. Our curriculum includes, but is not limited to, themes based on the current season, outdoor education, STEM activities (including art and music), unstructured free play and storytelling.
Due to these distinctive and ever-growing schools being led by the children's own interests and curiosity, no two classes are the same. If children are consumed with exploring the land, our planned lesson may be pushed out in order seize that teaching moment and explore different trees we are finding or encourage the building of a fort that has already been started. At Nature Tots Preschool, our lessons are intentionally prepared and presented with our individual students in mind. Our curriculum includes, but is not limited to, themes based on the current season, outdoor education, STEM activities (including art and music), unstructured free play and storytelling.
"Sometimes, when we can't seem to push ourselves through an obstacle, our grit and resiliency shows us that we can go around, over, or under... this is how we cultivate a growth mindset."
Daily Rhythm
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7:30
8:00 8:30 9:15 9:30 11:30 12:30 2:30 3:00 4:30 |
Light Breakfast + Group Gather
Creative Art Project Nature Walk Morning Snack Nature Immersion Exploration Clean Up + Provided Cold Lunch Story Time & Rest Afternoon Snack Mindfulness Activity + Free Play Goodbyes |
At our preschool, we believe in keeping things fun and flexible! We intentionally create a relaxed schedule that gives room for children to lead their own learning adventures. We know that kids learn best when they can use all of their senses and follow their natural curiosity. If you're curious about the exciting activities we have in store, simply click the link below for a detailed description of each one. Get ready for some playful and engaging learning experiences!
Forest Leaders
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AMBER NELSON
With over 8 years of experience in childcare, I take pride in my job and truly enjoy it. Alongside my wonderful husband and three school-age children, I am also a proud owner of a lovable golden retriever. I like to start my day with a cup of coffee and engage in hobbies such as golfing, gardening, and painting. My personality is best described as patient, easy-going, and caring. Exploring nature with my little friends has been an absolute dream job, and I look forward to continuing to nurture and support their growth. |
Clothing & Outdoor Gear Policy
At Nature Tots Preschool, we believe there's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing choices. Equipping our little ones for all-weather play is more than just donning them in average children's gear. To truly connect with nature, our young adventurers must be warm, dry, and ready for action.
You might be surprised, but not all children's outdoor clothes are born equal. Those cute little rubber rain boots and clothes with a waterproof label might appear perfect but often they're more for fashion than function, leaving our little explorers soggy and cold. Let's upgrade that wardrobe for true weather resilience!
We encourage outfits that can handle a little rough and tumble. So, send your mini adventurers in clothes that can take a bit of mess because we love playing in our mud kitchen and puddles! An extra set of clothes in their cubby is a must, as we like to be prepared for any and all nature-induced activities!
When it comes to winter, loose and layered is the name of the game. Loose-fitting clothing helps trap a layer of warm air next to the skin, and makes for easy bathroom breaks. Fear not, we're always ready with a stash of extra cold-weather gear to lend out as needed. We've spent time identifying the brands and styles that really live up to their promises. These are our reliable picks that ensure our preschoolers stay warm, dry, and in high spirits, whether they're perched on damp logs or playing in frosty weather. Keep scrolling for our top picks and gear guide for year-round nature exploration.
You might be surprised, but not all children's outdoor clothes are born equal. Those cute little rubber rain boots and clothes with a waterproof label might appear perfect but often they're more for fashion than function, leaving our little explorers soggy and cold. Let's upgrade that wardrobe for true weather resilience!
We encourage outfits that can handle a little rough and tumble. So, send your mini adventurers in clothes that can take a bit of mess because we love playing in our mud kitchen and puddles! An extra set of clothes in their cubby is a must, as we like to be prepared for any and all nature-induced activities!
When it comes to winter, loose and layered is the name of the game. Loose-fitting clothing helps trap a layer of warm air next to the skin, and makes for easy bathroom breaks. Fear not, we're always ready with a stash of extra cold-weather gear to lend out as needed. We've spent time identifying the brands and styles that really live up to their promises. These are our reliable picks that ensure our preschoolers stay warm, dry, and in high spirits, whether they're perched on damp logs or playing in frosty weather. Keep scrolling for our top picks and gear guide for year-round nature exploration.
Just a couple notes first:
- One full “nature school” outfit is plenty—we don’t mind if they come to school wearing the same thing every day! Do not feel the need to buy multiples of these items unless you want to.
- We kindly ask that you don't send your child in cotton clothing in colder temperatures. Cotton absorbs sweat/moisture and when wet, does not insulate. Merino wool is our personal material of choice.
- Please label your child’s clothing! This makes it much easier for us to return your clothing to you when it gets lost. You can purchase custom name labels or just write your child’s name in their clothes.
- If these brands are out of your price range, check out secondhand shops, they do not need to be brand new to keep your child warm! Our partnership with the OUTDOOR SCHOOL SHOP allows our Nature Tot families a 15% discount code.
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It's our one stop shop to easily pickup everything you need all at one time.
Click the logo and use code NATURETOTS to get 15% off |
Checklist:
HAT - A simple stocking cap without a ball on top is recommended. This is so the child's jacket hood can securely go over the hat so no wind or cold air can get in to stay warm.
Recommend: Didriksons Jadis Performance Fleece Hat
BALACLAVA - We require a non-bulky fleece balaclava in cold temperatures. , or pairing a warm hat that covers the ears with a separate merino wool or fleece neck warmer.
Recommend: Turtle Fur Original Turtle Fur Shellaclava
BASE LAYER - With unpredictable Minnesota weather, fall and spring can be difficult to plan for. On warmer days, comfortable pants and long sleeve or short sleeve shirts might be appropriate. On cooler days, we require children to wear midweight merino wool long underwear and mid-weight fleece jacket. Their layers should be “comfortably snug” to wick moisture efficiently. Please avoid jeans! They can be difficult for children to put on and take off independently, they absorb moisture quickly, and they restrict movement during play.
Recommended: Reima and Muddy Puddles on Outdoor School Shop
RAIN PANTS & MITTENS - We provide Polarn O. Pyret rain pants & rain mittens for each child. These are to be put on upon arrival each day for outdoor play and taken off before going home. They're wind and waterproof that keeps children clean during messy outdoor play. You are always welcome to purchase your own or grab a pair of ours each day.
SNOWSUIT - We recommend Lands End Kids Squall Iron Knee Waterproof Winter Snow Suit which we have some available to loan our for the school year. Warmest temperature range up to -21 degrees, 100-grams insulation in sleeves and lower body, SnowGuard™ wrist cuffs as an interior sleeve extension lets them slip their thumb through the cuff, Grow-A-Long™ sleeves extend 1.5 inches and legs 2 inches to fit them as they grow and durable, reinforced Iron Knees® and seat patches.
GLOVES - With this their are a couple options. One, you can purchase merino wool gloves and pair them under the waterproof rain gloves or two, purchase high quality winter gloves that zip like a sleeping bag over their wrist. Recommend: Reima Merino Wool Mid-Layer Mitten Or Reima Ote Waterproof Fleece Lined Winter Mitten
WOOL SOCKS or TIGHTS - We require mid-weight to heavyweight merino wool socks that extend to mid-calf. Recommend: Smartwool makes amazing outdoor socks!
RAIN BOOTS - We require all children to have BOGS Neo-Classic Solid for cold or wet days. These boots are good all-year round and 100% waterproof with sweat wicking material.
CLOSED TOED SHOES - We require comfortable, breathable, easy to put on shoes with Velcro when we aren't wearing our rain boots.
Recommend: Didriksons Jadis Performance Fleece Hat
BALACLAVA - We require a non-bulky fleece balaclava in cold temperatures. , or pairing a warm hat that covers the ears with a separate merino wool or fleece neck warmer.
Recommend: Turtle Fur Original Turtle Fur Shellaclava
BASE LAYER - With unpredictable Minnesota weather, fall and spring can be difficult to plan for. On warmer days, comfortable pants and long sleeve or short sleeve shirts might be appropriate. On cooler days, we require children to wear midweight merino wool long underwear and mid-weight fleece jacket. Their layers should be “comfortably snug” to wick moisture efficiently. Please avoid jeans! They can be difficult for children to put on and take off independently, they absorb moisture quickly, and they restrict movement during play.
Recommended: Reima and Muddy Puddles on Outdoor School Shop
RAIN PANTS & MITTENS - We provide Polarn O. Pyret rain pants & rain mittens for each child. These are to be put on upon arrival each day for outdoor play and taken off before going home. They're wind and waterproof that keeps children clean during messy outdoor play. You are always welcome to purchase your own or grab a pair of ours each day.
SNOWSUIT - We recommend Lands End Kids Squall Iron Knee Waterproof Winter Snow Suit which we have some available to loan our for the school year. Warmest temperature range up to -21 degrees, 100-grams insulation in sleeves and lower body, SnowGuard™ wrist cuffs as an interior sleeve extension lets them slip their thumb through the cuff, Grow-A-Long™ sleeves extend 1.5 inches and legs 2 inches to fit them as they grow and durable, reinforced Iron Knees® and seat patches.
GLOVES - With this their are a couple options. One, you can purchase merino wool gloves and pair them under the waterproof rain gloves or two, purchase high quality winter gloves that zip like a sleeping bag over their wrist. Recommend: Reima Merino Wool Mid-Layer Mitten Or Reima Ote Waterproof Fleece Lined Winter Mitten
WOOL SOCKS or TIGHTS - We require mid-weight to heavyweight merino wool socks that extend to mid-calf. Recommend: Smartwool makes amazing outdoor socks!
RAIN BOOTS - We require all children to have BOGS Neo-Classic Solid for cold or wet days. These boots are good all-year round and 100% waterproof with sweat wicking material.
CLOSED TOED SHOES - We require comfortable, breathable, easy to put on shoes with Velcro when we aren't wearing our rain boots.
Forest School Gear Pack
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The proper attire for all-weather play is critical for the success of any outdoor preschooler. There is a $300 (non-refundable) gear fee for items issued specifically for each child to ensure they are prepared for Nature Tots Preschool. Some items will be left at preschool and some will be sent home each day. Please use with care as we aim to reuse items for years to come! The cost of lost or damaged items will be added to your monthly invoice. This includes a waterproof backpack, Hydroflask water bottle, Bentgo lunch box + snack pack, Wildkins nap mat and Polarn O. Pyret waterproof rain bibs and mittens.
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