Forest Play is an outdoor, nature-based program for 3–5 year olds. We are excited to continue this adventure with youth this fall in our seven-week program. Sessions are every Friday beginning September 20 and ending November 1, 2024.
Forest Play provides your child with the opportunity to be outdoors in a facilitated space where participants have the freedom to engage with the environment and their peers through curiosity and exploration. We meet rain, snow, or shine.
At the core of each day is both structure and freedom. We provide a daily rhythm (see below) with ample room for freedom and exploration. This framework supports your child in continual development of the values of kindness, creativity, curiosity, and stewardship, as well as the physical development of fine and gross motor skills. The consistent outdoor time also helps support your child’s overall health and well-being.
Program Details
SOEI Youth Programs Coordinator Clair Emmons will be leading Forest Play this fall with the support of Northland College education-focused work-study students. Director for Nature-based Programs Katherine Jenkins will be supporting the team. We are all looking forward to spending Fridays with your kiddos! Please contact us with any questions.
Daily Rhythm
| 10 a.m. | Drop off at the Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute |
| 10:00–10:15 a.m. | Exploration and Play |
| 10:15 a.m. | Welcome Circle |
| 10:25 a.m. | Wander, Wonder, and Explore |
| 11 a.m. | Reading and Snacks |
| 11:20 a.m. | Wander, Wonder, and Explore |
| 11:45 a.m. | Closing Circle |
| 12 p.m. | Parent/Guardian Pick-up at the Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute |
Requirements
We do expect that your child is out of diapers and potty-trained.
Contact
Please contact Youth Programs Coordinator Clair Emmons with any questions at cemmons@northland.edu or by calling 715-682-1823. Please reach out to Clair if you need financial assistance.
Registration has closed. We hope your youth can join us for a future outing!
