Winter Session now open! Register here
Philosophy:
Our philosophy is that when guided thoughtfully and provided with plenty of time to play freely in a varied natural environment children will naturally develop into whole and healthy people. In our play-based program children will develop small and large motor skills, empathy for each other and the natural world, social skills, imagination, risk-assessment skills, endurance and resiliency, ecological literacy and connection to the natural word. Free play, which we see as the work of the child, will be balanced with hikes, stories, circle time and teacher organized seasonal crafts/activities.
Typical Daily Schedule:8:30am- arrive/parents drop off
8:40am- circle
9:00amam- hike to play area
9:15am- free play - teachers bring optional supplies Parent Handbook
10:15am- story Clothing Requirements
10:30am- snack
10:45am- optional craft and free play
11:30am- goodbye circle
Stories, songs, games, and activities will be seasonal and will promote language development, motor and social skills, spatial and environmental awareness.
Winter Semester: January 5 -- February 23, 2024 - 8 sessions - 8:30am-11:30am each Friday
Spring Semester: April 5 -- May 24, 2024 - 8 sessions - 8:30am-11:30am each Friday
Each session will include: a hike, story, healthy snack, singing and nature awareness games.
Instructor: Susana Ruder, an instructor at the KVR, will be leading the Forest Fridays program. She is enthusiastic and experienced, and very excited to be working with the children this year!
Fee: $210/child/semester
*Children must register for all sessions (no individual session rates available)
Minimum: 5 children; Maximum: 12 children
Scholarships are available. Contact the KVR Education Coordinator for more information.
Questions? Please contact Education Coordinator Maggie Schultz at 608-625-2965 or email maggie.schultz@wisconsin.gov
Refund/Cancellation Policy: Forest Friday’s will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Payment must be received to guarantee your child’s spot. If cancellation notice is received at least 21 days prior to the start of the semester, a refund will be given less an administrative fee of 25%. If notice is received less than 21 days prior, no refund will be made. Scholarships are available for financially disadvantaged students. Contact the KVR for more information. Registration implies permission for photos to be used on the KVR website or other publications (student’s name will not be used) unless the KVR receives notification in writing prior to the program.