Classes for Ages 3-6
Wildsong classes for children ages 3-6 are filled with nature-based free play and exploration. The daily routine balances community time with independent pursuits while offering a wide-variety of authentic early childhood experiences. The curriculum follows seasonal changes and children’s emerging interests. Teachers assess children’s growth and development through the HighScope assessment tool of anecdotal notes. Children entering this class should be potty trained and able to use the restroom independently. Prior experience separating from primary caregivers is also helpful for children as they transition into the program.
Classes are capped at 12 children with 2 teachers and use the nature center area as a meeting base, with indoor access for the colder months. A typical day includes a morning meeting, planning and “work time” for open-ended free play, snack time, an optional small group, a daily hike or exploration to various locations at The Res, large-group time, and a closing gratitude circle.
Class for 1st-3rd Grade Homeschoolers
The Wildsong class for 1st to 3rd grade homeschooling students will use the natural world and children’s interests as inspiration for learning. There will be opportunities for whole group, small group, and individual work time with a focus on literacy and science. The focused literacy and science time may include guided reading, teacher read-aloud, science experiments, and work on writing projects. Individual and group academic goals will be based on Indiana Academic Standards for English/Language Arts and Science, with an understanding that each child develops at their own unique pace. At a minimum it is recommended children entering this class should be able to read a beginner book with CVC and sight words and independently write a short sentence.
The class will be capped at 10 children with 1 teacher and will use the Lion’s Cabin outdoor space as a meeting base, with access to indoor space for the colder months. A typical day will include a morning meeting, sit spot and nature journaling, a literacy/science work block, snack time, time for art, games, hiking, or open-ended exploration, and a closing gratitude circle.
