9 A.M-2:30 P.M.
Forest program is held at Watchung Reservation in Mountainside. Students spend the entire day learning and exploring in the Forest. The curriculum is emergent based on students’ observations, findings and interests. The program develops organically as students begin to build a relationship with the forest. Nature-based curriculum changes with the seasons. The whole-child approach to what they can feel, touch, see and experience. Ms. Christina has extensive experience with nature-based programs. Her experience working in a Danish preschool and living in Denmark is really what has inspired our nature program. The nature studies are inspired by Charlottee Mason and rhythms by Waldorf Education. We begin the morning with welcome activities that may include painting, literacy activities, games, handwork etc.
We hold a community meeting where we begin our day greeting each other, setting intentions, group sharing, read aloud, weather tracking, calendar and other shared learning experiences. After our meeting, students may participate in literacy circles, nature journaling, independent reading, handwork, homeschool curriculum etc. Students learn how to use a nature journal in an intentional and comprehensive format. Throughout the forest school students will be developing their nature journal and documenting their nature learning. Students gather for a community lunch and then we begin our hike. Our hike is after lunch from 12:30-2:00. On our hike, the students really take lead of the learning. We have multiple landing spots where students are encouraged to take a moment and observe what they see. They are also using their nature journals as we progress through our hike.