“We could never have loved the earth so well if we had had no childhood in it, if it were not the earth where the same flowers come up again every spring that we used to gather with our tiny fingers as we sat lisping to ourselves on the grass, the same hips and haws on the autumn hedgerows, the same redbreasts that we used to call ‘God’s birds’ because they did no harm to the precious crops. What novelty is worth that sweet monotony where everything is known and loved because it is known?”
-George Eliot
What is Nature School?
Nature School is an intentional invitation for children to be immersed in a world that chirps, sings and meanders all around them everyday. Every child will be given the opportunity to use their senses to explore and engage with the natural world. Children will observe plants and animals, be introduced to birding, experience the changing seasons and discover the gift of nature journaling. Cooperative games will give children the chance to lead and work with their peers to problem solve. Our students will be given the opportunity to memorize beautiful poetry about the natural world and listen to living books about nature that are so intriguing they won’t want the stories to end. Nature school is quite literally a breath of fresh air. Give your children the gift of the natural world by spending more intentional time outside.
“Education is an atmosphere, a discipline, and a life.”
-Charlotte Mason
Who Are The Leaders?
Hi! My name is Courtney and I’m so excited to guide your children as we learn together about the natural world and all of its wonders. I am a 2nd generation homeschool mother of 3 and a Midwest girl at heart. Our family moved to Northeast Florida a few years ago and we are truly loving the long summers and extremely short winters. As an ever learning and sometimes successful backyard gardener I have experienced firsthand how nature truly nurtures the soul and revives the spirit. I’m excited to share my Montessori background and constant desire to learn with your children. I can’t wait to jump into Nature School with you and your family this season.
Hi my name is Michelle. I was born and raised in Florida. I’m a stop and smell the roses kind of gal who loves to make things for scratch and work with my hands. I try to incorporate that in my everyday, especially since I have two little shadows by my side (1 and 4 years old). I believe there is so much to learn and see in nature and we are truly able to do so when we slow down. I can’t wait to encourage your children as they create artwork in nature. I am excited to help them see the gift of God’s amazing design in all His creation.
Who Can Come?
Nature school is for children between the ages of 3 and 10 years of age (we may make exceptions for some older siblings within reason, just send us an email and we can see what we can do). At this time we do not have a drop off program, so parents are expected to stay and help their children that need support and time in the restroom.
When Will We Meet?
We will meet twice a month on Thursdays from 9:45 am-12:30 pm.
September 5, 19, 2024
October 3, 17, 2024
November 7, 21, 2024
December 5, 19, 2024
Location
In order to keep our families safe, we will disclose the location after registration. But we are located on the far West side of Jacksonville, Florida.
Cost
We would like to keep this affordable for all of our families. Therefore you make one payment for September -December, and we cap the cost if you have more than two children participating.
$50 for one child
$100 for two or more children
What Do I Need to Bring?
Water Bottle (that your child can be responsible for)
Insect repellant
Sunscreen
Boots or shoes for squelching in the mud
Snack (fruit, pretzels, goldfish, something quick and simple)
Lunch
Sample Schedule
Circle Time (Introducing weekly theme)
Poetry Recitation
Share a Nature story
Tactile experience, touch and describe a natural object
Hike
3-5 year olds, Story and Game
6-10 year olds, Story, Narration, Game
Together for Snack and Chat
Nature journaling (6-10 year olds) and Art/Craft (3-5 year olds)
