Following your curiosity. Making friends. Getting messy. Learning, playing, and growing in a community that supports and celebrates who you are. Isn’t that what we all want out of childhood?

Our Forest School classes combine the best parts of a high-quality, developmentally appropriate early learning program with the transformative experience of being immersed in nature. Inspired by the burgeoning Nature Preschool movement across the United States and Europe, Firefly Forest School is a true forest school program!

Our very low teacher to student ratio (2-3 teachers for classes of 6-12 students) makes this a truly personal, relationship-based early learning experience. Our experienced teachers create an environment for our youngest learners that allows them to challenge themselves, learn, grow, and build their skills in a supportive and safe environment.

Currently, our Forest School classes take place at two incredible parks—Tenhave Woods and Bauervic Woods. We utilize best practices in early childhood education, Reggio Emilia-inspired curriculum, and a child-centered teaching practice to create a unique and transformative learning environment for our youngest learners. As a multi-age program, students will have the ability to both stretch themselves and become leaders to those younger than them. As an all-outdoors program, students will learn how to navigate the world confidently, gain essential creative problem solving skills, and develop a deep and abiding connection to nature.

All students in our Early Learning classes MUST BE at least 3 years old (4 years old for Chickadees) and potty trained by the start of the school year they wish to attend.

Our classes for the 2023-2024 school year are full. if you are interested in getting on the waitlist for any mid-year spots, or for a spot in our classes for the 2024-2025 school year, please sign up for a class tour here.

A Morning at Forest School

9:00 am: Arrival and free play time
9:45 am: Morning circle (greetings, opening story, discussion of plan for the day, questions)
10:00 am: Exploration time on the trails
10:45 am: Mid-morning snack
11:00 am: Project-based learning time (art/science/literacy/numeracy focus)
11:30 am: Free play time
12:00 pm: Pick up