top of page

Our Approach

At Rooted Outdoor Learning and Education, we believe in providing inclusive outdoor education for children ages 3-12 who have special needs and for typically developing peers.  We also have a special needs adult program that focuses on ages 17-25. Our approach values age-appropriate, natural, and accessible learning experiences. We emphasize teaching life skills and ways to earn money for young adults while fostering cooperation, social-emotional development, fine motor skills, gross motor skills, science, math and literacy.

Educational Gardening

Nature School Philosophy

Exploring the Outdoors

Nature school philosophy is based on the idea that children learn best when they are actively engaged with the natural world. Nature schools use the outdoors as a classroom to help children develop their curiosity, creativity, and environmental awareness. Age 3-8 

Principles

  • Hands-on learning: Children learn through play and active work in nature. 

  • Child-led learning: Children's interests and curiosity guide the day's activities. 

  • Environmental stewardship: Children learn to respect and protect the natural world. 

  • Social and emotional development: Children learn empathy, cooperation, and self-esteem. 

  • Physical development: Children improve their balance, agility, and motor skills. 

Benefits

  • Cognitive development: Children improve their concentration, memory, and problem-solving skills. 

  • Social development: Children improve their communication skills and ability to work in teams. 

  • Emotional development: Children improve their self-discipline, patience, and resilience. 

  • Environmental awareness: Children develop a greater respect for nature and a desire to protect it. 

Core
Learning

Hands-on Nature Education

We offer hands-on learning opportunities about sustainable living, gardening, and wildlife conservation, empowering participants to become stewards of the environment. While there is no set curriculum, we value ideas, concepts and connections certain curriculums and programs have that will enhance learning and exploration. Some examples are: 

​

We will also have the following embedded in our outdoor exploration and learning: science, math, literacy, social/emotional, fine motor, gross motor, problem solving, risky play (learning what is safe for our bodies) and establish an inclusive and accessible program for all learners. 

​

Transition and Enrichment Program

Developing skills to help with independence and job opportunities for young adults with disabilities

ages 17-25 

Through our programs, participants learn about social communication, develop essential life skills, and gain confidence in their abilities to contribute positively to their communities.  This program includes but is not limited to:

  • Gardening and Growing food

  • Farm animal care and collection of animal products

  • Marketing products grown and produced on the farm

  • Assistant in the Spuds and Sprouts program

  • Other hobby skills for profit

bottom of page