At Seedlings Forest School, we strive to foster a sense of community and belonging among children, where they can develop positive relationships with each other and the natural world. Our experienced educators lead activities and encourage children to take risks, problem-solve, and make their own choices.
We believe that when children spend lots of time in nature, they learn to love and care for the earth. By asking questions, exploring, and trying things out for themselves, children discover how the world works in their own way. Our hope is that each child grows up to be a kind, curious, and caring friend to the earth and all who live here
Our Approach
What We Believe In
A Rich Image of the Child
At Seedlings, we believe every child is smart, capable, and full of ideas. You learn best when you get to explore, try things out, and discover answers in your own way. Together with your friends, teachers, and community, you get to share, wonder, and learn side by side.
Inquiry-Based Learning
At Seedlings, our teachers don’t just make a plan and tell us what to learn. They believe kids are smart and full of ideas! When we play, ask questions, or try new things, they join us, listen to our thoughts, and help us figure things out. Our learning grows from what we are most curious about, so every day is different and exciting.
Community-Centered Learning
At Seedlings, we want everyone to feel welcome and cared for. Our teachers make sure that children and their families feel included, listened to, and respected. We celebrate differences and help each other feel like we belong.
multi-lens approach
At Seedlings, we know that the land we play and learn on has always been special to Indigenous Peoples. Decolonization means slowing down, listening, and learning from the people who cared for this land long before us. It’s about showing respect, being open to different ways of knowing, and remembering that there’s more than one story about how to explore and care for nature. When we learn together this way, we can build stronger friendships, share ideas, and take better care of the earth and each other.
Forest Schools
Forest schools are an increasingly popular approach to educating children that began over half a century ago in Scandinavia. They're also called nature or outdoor schools.
At forest school, we get to learn by doing things outside in nature. We build forts and shelters, make art with sticks, leaves, and rocks, and discover plants and animals all around us. Being outdoors helps us grow strong bodies, kind hearts, and curious minds. Every day is an adventure, and the forest is our classroom!
Our Space
We may spend a lot of time in nature, but we also enjoy a beautiful brick building in the heart of Fernwood where we nap, make art, and play indoors when appropriate. Our space is full of kiddo-sized furniture (custom-built for us by a local artisan) and toys carefully selected to encourage imaginative play.
