Children instinctively understand that humans are connected to and benefit from nature. Because of this, Forest Schools are incredible programs because they take place in nature-rich locations, such as parks, trails, near beaches, and, of course, forests. Teachers who lead these programs often have a skillful combination of outdoor and developmental knowledge.Imagine your child being guided by a Forest School teacher each day as they draw pictures on rocks and trees instead of chairs and rugs and build with sticks instead of plastic bricks. More and more parents looking for Forest School childcare in San Francisco are discovering Forest Schools as an ideal choice for their curious, outdoor-loving children. Here is a glimpse into what a Forest School is and how they function from four top Forest Schools in San Francisco.
Little Earthlings Forest SchoolCreated by David Calabrese, who studied Philosophy, Painting, and ECE, this program elevates perceptions of San Francisco Forest Schools by teaching and reaching children in a reflective and empowering atmosphere of care. Numerous parent testimonials share more about the depth and quality of the Little Earthlings childhood experience."Little Earthlings graduates are just different--they are masters of their own destiny, innovators, resilient, respectful of themselves and others, and empathetic. No matter what kind of academic path our daughter chooses, we are confident that this first school experience at Little Earthlings will enable her success."-Parent Review
Fog City Explorers Forest SchoolThis program share's that the sky is "literally the limit." Teacher Rachel Weiss directs alongside staff with experience in yoga, art, and environmental studies, guiding the children on daily journeys in San Francisco's lush parklands."We used Fog City Explorers this summer for an outdoor camp, and it was AMAZING! Teacher Rachel & Allie are so good at incorporating nature into play and learning. They are incredibly patient, loving, and fun with kids." Parent Review
SF Roots Forest SchoolFounded by Rodelina Cerdena and her partner Manrico Cerdena III, this quality childcare and Forest school values authentic partnerships between teachers and children, teachers and parents, and, naturally, the physical and emotional root's children have to the earth. It has 94 positive reviews and fantastic parent testimonials."Lina is wonderful about sending updates on their adventures and learning. I have always felt beyond safe leaving my kids in her care. She is a mom and an educator, and the balance is perfect ."-Parent Review
Mi Escuelita En EspanolFounded by Ines Portugal, there is so much to love about this program. Ines runs an at home program regularly but also Forest School programming for children looking to dip their toes into outdoor learning. Did we mention this incredible program has language immersion and Waldorf-inspiration as part of its offerings?“A gentle transition from home-life to grade school, Mi Escuelita en Español is a Spanish preschool experience for children of 18 months to 5 years of age. We offer a beautiful, nourishing, homelike environment for children to experience the world at their own pace and learn through their senses.”
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