Forest Afternoons

About Forest Afternoons

Forest Afternoons is an environment for play. fun, creativity and relaxation. Most children will be participating in Forest Afternoons after a long day at school. Child-led activities will be encouraged. 

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On our first afternoon together, we will gather ideas for what to do together in the following weeks. Taira is also happy to respond to children's spontaneous interests as they come up. 

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Taira will offer:

an ongoing nature-based art project: examples: gelli plate printing, collaging

nature journal + field guides, magnifying glasses, binoculars

nature dance

kinship activities

foraging for salad and salad making (spring)

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Forest Afternoons is a program of In Place (local non-profit) in collaboration with Taira Restar & Emerald Heart Forest School. Scholarships available through In Place. 

Practicalities

Readiness
This is a drop-off program. Each of our forest schoolers has met these milestones in order to feel comfortable and confident in this program:​​

• Can express wants/needs with words--with other children and with adults.

• Can be away from parent.

• Will follow an adult's guidance.

• Do not wander off.

Readiness is not limited to 5 to 8 age range. Someone might be ready at 4.5. Someone 9 years might feel comfortable and engaged. Please inquire if you have questions. We are happy to discuss. (Note: Generally, this is not a program for preschoolers, though some 'older preschoolers' may be ready to join. We are happy to create a new afternoon program for preschool age children if there is interest. Let us know!)

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Gear

Because we are outdoors in all weather, including rain, our forest schoolers dress in appropriate gear.

Snacks & Water

Parents provide water (or water bottle) and snack. We will have extra drinking water and a bit of fruit or raw veggies on hand in case it's needed. Due to food allergies and food preferences, Emerald Heart will not provide snacks for the whole group.