Nature Based Learning

Nature Based Learning is offered in three trimesters:
• Fall: September 8 – November 25
• Winter: November 30 – February 12
• Spring: February 22 – June 18
 

184 program days offered throughout the year
 

Monday - Friday (Minimum two day enrollment):

• 9:00am - 12:00pm 

  • Program Cost: $108 per day

  • Children ages 36 months to 5 years, 11 months may attend independently.

  • Children 24–36 months are also welcome to participate with a caregiver remaining on the property. Families are welcome to use the workspace in our Mercantile during program hours.
     

During the first two hours, children will explore, discover, and grow through the rhythms of the farm. Guided by their own curiosity, they will investigate, measure, sort, compare, and collaborate while engaging with the animals, natural environment, and daily life around them. Through these child-led experiences, pre-literacy, pre-writing, and early math concepts are naturally woven into play, allowing each child to build skills at their own pace while developing confidence, communication, problem-solving abilities, and a lasting connection to nature.

 

The third hour brings a therapeutic focus with small-group activities facilitated by Ridgebury Farm's licensed practitioners, including an occupational therapist, speech-language pathologist, and mental health counselor. Developmentally appropriate goals will be identified for each child and monitored throughout the trimester. Therapists will provide intentional support while maintaining the program's play-based, nature-centered approach.

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This therapeutic hour is designed as beneficial enrichment for all children, regardless of whether they have a diagnosed need. Activities presented in this hour will support growth across social, emotional, communication, and motor domains in a natural and inclusive setting.

 

Enrollment Details:

• Minimum enrollment is required for each program day.

• Enrollment is capped at 15 children to maintain a low adult-to-child ratio.

• Families who enroll Monday through Friday for all three trimesters and pay 50% of the annual tuition upfront will receive a 10% tuition discount.