FOR YOUNG PEOPLE AGES 3-5
Rooted in Nature. Ready to Grow.
The Fledgling Forest School at Eagle’s Nest employs experiential education for preschool aged children, ages 3-5, that is forest-based and embraces curiosity, creativity through play and hands-on experiences. These youngest members of the Eagle’s Nest Community will “fledge” under the hardwood canopies and rhododendron tunnels of our wooded campus. They will nest along the creeks and trails that wind between our garden, campcraft shed, and Sun Lodge, creating options for shelter when needed. They will make art and crafts using traditional and natural materials. And they will join in the longstanding tradition of circles and song that permeates our culture here at Eagle’s Nest. Our woods are their classroom; full of textures and materials to enrich children’s senses, empower their learning experience, and build foundational skills for development.
Registration opens on February 2nd!
SCHOOL DETAILS
TIME: Monday- Friday, 9am-Noon
AGES: 3-5 Years old
TUITION: $250/Week
MEALS: Fledglings will bring a prepacked snack from home every day.
FACILITIES: Two primary structures, 1 indoor (flush toilet) bathroom, extra potties and hand washing stations to minimize emergencies and accidents.
DATES: Choose you Week(s)!
Week 1: June 1 – 5
Week 2: June 8 – 12
Week 3: June 15 – 19
Week 4: June 22 – 26
Why a Forest School?
- Nature-based learning everyday- Hands on experiential education and outdoor play in the forest.
- Holistic child development- Encouraging independence, confidence, creativity, and social-emotional growth.
- Small-group guidance- Class of ∼24 with skilled educators supporting each child’s learning.
- Play, wonder, and imagination at the center- Foresting a lifelong connection to nature and joyful learning
FAQs
Children will spend most of their time outdoors. They’ll be exploring along trails and streams, observing the native plants and animals, doing nature crafts, and participating in group activities. There’s also time for snacks, stories, and reflection.
Not at all! This school is designed for all experience levels. Children will get to grow their comfort and confidence in nature at their own pace.
This program benefits from the risk management overhead of the Eagle’s Nest Foundation and its other programs: Eagle’s Nest Camp, Hante Adventures, and The Outdoor Academy. In addition to our robust policies for risk management, the Fledgling Forest School will also maintain a minimum 1:6 staff to student ratio, with a standard of care closer to a 1:4 staff to student ratio. Parents will be asked to provide layers of clothing to meet the range of weather students are likely to experience, which can include an abundance of rain and cooler morning temperatures.
Yes. All participants must be fully potty trained and able to use the restroom independently.
Please send your child dressed in layers and with sturdy shoes. We spend plenty of time outside, and the weather can change quickly.
Yes, please pack a snack for your child each day. We recommend something simple, nutritious, and familiar.
Questions? Want more information?
Reach out to Beth Venable at beth@enf.org, or call the Eagle’s Nest Office at 828-877-4349.
Registration opens on February 2, 2026.