Daily Rhythm

Our days are all about giving kids the freedom to explore, follow their interests, and learn through play while connecting with nature. We keep transitions simple, so the focus stays on what really matters—letting kids play. As Einstein put it, "Play is the highest form of research."

A sign in a wooded area that says 'Slow! Free Range Children' with another small sign on a nearby post indicating a horse trail.
Child sitting on forest ground wearing rain boots and a red jacket, holding a cup of hot chocolate and a piece of bread, with pine needles and leaves around.

9:00am –9:30am
Drop-off
Children arrive and settle in with unstructured play and exploration. This open time allows them to naturally observe, ask questions, and interact with their surroundings at their own pace.

9:30am-10:00am
Snack
This short gathering fosters a sense of community and helps us center our energy for the day. We share a healthy snack and enjoy a book together.

Two small, dark brown slimy salamanders on a green leaf being held by a person's hand.
A squirrel eating a piece of bread while on green grass.

10:00am –11:00am
Free play
Children engage in uninterrupted exploration and play. They follow their curiosity—whether it’s building, climbing, observing insects, or investigating plants. Educators offer gentle guidance as needed, fostering natural learning without structured activities.

11:00am –11:30am
Lunch
We pause for a lunch break, where children refuel and connect. Afterward, we have a relaxed story time that often relates to the theme of the week.

Child's watercolor painting of colorful flowers and leaves on white paper.
Child in yellow raincoat with hood, gray pants, black boots, and light blue backpack walking outdoors on a muddy grassy area with trees and a river in the background.

11:30am-12:30pm
Small group
Children have the option to explore a teacher-provided activity with open-ended materials and prompts or engage in their own imaginative, child-led exploration.

12:00-12:45 am
Pick-up
At the end of the day, the children come together for a final story or to share their favorite moments, discoveries, and lessons from their adventures. They leave with a sense of calm, a spark of wonder, and plenty of stories to tell about their time in nature.