Oakview Farm Forest School
Welcome to Oakview Farm Forest School, where we believe in nurturing the whole child through the wonders of nature. Our nature-based program offers experiential, hands-on, and play-based learning that fosters connection, compassion, curiosity and creativity. Join us as we explore the great outdoors and cultivate a love for learning in a supportive and engaging environment. Discover the joy of learning through nature with us!
What is a Farm Forest School?
At a Farm Forest School, children are immersed in the beauty of the natural world the whole time they are on the farm. Our commitment to regenerative and sustainable farming practices aligns perfectly with the Forest School philosophy, which nurtures the whole child and fosters a deep love for nature. Through hands-on experiences in our forested areas, open pastures, and gardens, children connect with the environment in diverse, meaningful ways. At Oakview Farm Forest School, we focus on three integral tenets of Forest School: Connection, Compassion, and Creativity. Read on to read about each of these!
Connection
“When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.” – John Muir
Compassion
"No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted." - Aesop
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Creativity
"Creativity is seeing what others see and thinking what no one else ever thought." -Albert Einstein
Connection in Forest School
At Forest School, the connection to the natural world is at the heart of everything we do. Here, children discover the courage to take risks, enhance their problem-solving skills, and develop self-regulation and perseverance through connection to nature and to others. Our program fosters not only a love for nature but also meaningful relationships, as children build bonds that deepen their empathy and respect for one another. For example, we build connections by: coming together as a whole group during Morning Meeting; working together with peers and teachers to answer questions as they emerge throughout the day, and taking care of the daily needs of the plants and animals at the farm.
Compassion in Forest School
At Forest School, we believe that showing compassion to nature is just a part of the adventure! As kids explore nature, they start to understand how they fit into the beautiful, natural cycles of the forests and fields. Compassion is all around us—whether it's making sure we leave no trace during our explorations or lending a hand to a friend facing a challenge. We encourage compassionate behaviors at Forest School by modeling being compassionate caretakers of each other and the natural world.
Creativity in Forest School
At Forest School, creativity is limitless! While we enjoy painting, drama, and music, creativity goes way beyond that. When kids dive into nature, their imaginations take flight, sparking all sorts of unique ideas and curious adventures. In our forest, there are no walls to hold them back—just a world full of possibilities!