Notchcliff Forest Kinder Co-Op is for families who want to balance home school or online distance learning with social play and nature connection in a small group setting. While most of the children's time is devoted to nature play, we also translate our adventures into activities that align with grade level expectations and standards. (Learn more at www.naturalcommunity.org.)

Classes meet from Sept. 9 - May 26, 2022 on Thursday afternoons from 1-4 p.m. entirely outdoors, rain or shine! ​You will receive complete details about gear and policies when you register. Your child must be five (5) years old by September 1st to meet the age requirement.  Offered for grades K-2nd.

Enrollment options include:
Full year (Sept 9 - May 26, 2022)
Autumn semester (Sept. 9 - Dec. 16, 2021)
Winter/Spring semester (Feb. 17 - May 26, 2022)

Exploring Our Natural Community (Autumn semester)
Science inquiry and social studies include map-making, basic ecology concepts, plant and animal ID, tracking, and learning about Indigenous communities. Stories that connect to our seasonal adventures are infused throughout.

Nature Arts & Handcrafts (Winter/Spring semester)
Creative arts, music, and dramatic play collide with primitive skills as we explore natural materials through the arts. Stories that connect to our seasonal adventures are infused throughout.

Co-Op agreement: By joining the Forest Kinder Co-Op, your family agrees to join us for 1-2 classes per semester and submit to background checks. (One or both parents may attend and you are welcome to bring younger siblings.) Parents provide helpful support to teachers and get a bird’s eye view into their child’s learning experiences. This is an important way we build community, share one another’s successes, and work together to encourage meaningful learning.

Tuition:  This is based on less than you might otherwise pay a sitter (about $10/hour).  If you join partway through the year, we will pro-rate your tuition.  If you are experiencing financial need, please reach out. We have limited aid for those who qualify.

Payment schedule: First payment is due upon enrollment and is non-refundable; second payment due Nov. 1, third payment due Feb. 1, and final payment due Apr. 1 (depending on class option). Reminders with individual balances will be sent approximately two weeks before payments are due.

Enrollment Requirements: Your child must be five years old by Sept. 1 of the program year s/he begins. 

Family Agreement & Handbook: Immersive outdoor learning means just that - we are outdoors in all kinds of weather! Please read and sign the handbook and Family Agreement to acknowledge important policies that guide our program. Family Agreement_Notchcliff Nature Programs.pdf.

You can find our COVID-19 Policies here, which are subject to change. Our calendar and gear guide will be provided in your confirmation email.  We look forward to amazing adventures with you and your child!