Family Forest School

Student in blue coat is looking at the ground with parent in pink coat pointing at invertebrates with their pencil tip. Student has a clipboard to write down observations.

What We Believe

You are your child's first and best teacher. Being out in the woods with your child means you get to know your child’s friends and their parents too. Many families have found Family Forest School a great way to build a network of like-minded homeschooling friends.The teacher’s role is to set up learning experiences and invitations surrounding literacy, science, social studies, and PE. These invitations help the children explore, observe, question, experiment, discover, and play. The primary educator can then use the children’s questions and curiosity to extend out-of-class learning in areas that are of interest and relevance.

What We Learn

Place-based study of natural and human history
The tools of a scientist, researcher, and citizen
Naturalist skills; integrating the use of writing, art and science to record data and observations
Process-based art using traditional, found, and natural materials
Using literature and writing to tell stories
Student-led time to build relationships and pursue interests
Teamwork and how to be part of a community
Outdoor safety and recreation
The role of nature and the environment in social justice issues that face our community.

“Family Forest School has been a nurturing, child-led community that has inspired my child to look closely at the natural world and empowered them to ask questions and learn through our local environment. It’s been a community for us, a place for me to talk with other parents and for my child to develop lasting friendships. - Family Forest Parent

Two students hold very large big leaf maple leaves that cover their faces. The leaves are golden and over 10 inches long.

A group of students sit on a log with field guides and journals making observations.

A student is sitting on a concrete pad working on a painting of a bird with a very large wing span.

We Might Be a Good Fit If...

You value emergent, experiential learning through play and place-based experiences with your children.
You like spending time outside learning with children in all weather.
You want to be part of a nurturing, multi-age community that supports you as a homeschool family. Younger siblings are welcome.
You’d like resources and support from educators in meeting your homeschooling goals.

Sample Family Forest School Schedule

The class takes place on Wednesday from 9:30-3:00 at local parks and/or SVEC. We offer a half day and full day option for families.

The Rhythm of the Day:

9:00-11:30 a.m.

Meet at Park:

Mornings are spent in small group activities and learning centers that center around our learning theme for the day.

11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Transportation to local park, lunch, and time for free exploration at the park.

12:30 1:30 p.m

Meet after lunch with a story or circle connected to the theme of the day.

1:30-2:30 pm.

Family journal time and sit spots. Group activities based on family interests. This includes: nature hikes, experiments, data collection, and land connection activities.

2:30-3:00 p.m.

Closing gratitude and wondering circle

Families are responsible for transporting their own children and are expected to stay on site.

Family Forest School counts for a class weight of 3. For more information contact the SVEC office.

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