Forest Families

Introduction to the Land for Caregivers & Littles

Who: Walking to Age 4

When: Mon, Wed, or Fri | 9:30am – 11:00am

Where: Sugar Valley Farm, Oro-Medonte

Spring Session: Mar 30 – Jun 5 ($250 per family)

Welcome to the Forest Families Program

– Where Nature Inspires Learning!

The Foundational Years

Ecological Literacy & Sensory Development: Our educators facilitate an unhurried introduction to the Land, where local flora and fauna become the primary teachers. At ages 2–4, children are in a critical window for sensory integration; we provide "provocations" that challenge their fine motor skills and tactile awareness.
The Power of Risk & Resilience: Guided by the Forest School model, we support "risky play" within safe parameters; climbing stumps, navigating uneven terrain, and engaging with the elements. This builds the neurological pathways for confidence and self-regulation.
Community of Practice: This isn't just a program for children; it is a collaborative space for caregivers. We model forest school principles, offering you the tools to observe, support, and engage with your child's innate curiosity.

A Journey Through the Land

The Gathering Circle: We begin with an intentional gathering singing songs and telling stories that ground us in the season and the local Oro-Medonte landscape.
Nature Study & Exploration: Whether we are tracking footprints in the Sugar Valley Farm mud or identifying the first trilliums of Spring, every walk is an opportunity for authentic inquiry.
Tactile Arts & Loose Parts: We move away from plastic toys, instead providing natural "loose parts" that encourage divergent thinking. Our craft options, from leaf prints to clay sculptures, are an extension of the forest itself.

FAQ

Can children under 2 register?

This program is designed for children with a caregiver, ages 2-4.

Contact us if your child is younger than 2 and you think this program may be a good fit.

Babies in arms are welcome with no cost.

What is a typical day like?

A typical Forest Families morning is pretty relaxed and gentle. We start by gathering together in our forest space to say hello, sing a few songs, and help everyone settle in. From there, we usually go on a short nature walk and then enjoy a snack and story together. Next, we usually offer a craft and guided nature walk, but families are free to explore at their own pace.

Caregivers stay with their children the whole time, so it’s a lovely chance to connect one-on-one, while also getting to know other families. Educators are there to support play, model activities, and gently guide social interactions, but nothing is rushed or overly structured.

We usually come back together for a story or closing circle before heading home. Every morning looks a little different depending on the weather, the season, and the kids, which is part of the magic.

Some Program Details:

1. Dress for the weather as we will be outside the entire time.

2. Please bring along a snack and water for our story-time in the forest.

3. Please arrive on time as we will begin promptly at 9:30am with our gathering circle.

2025/2026 School Year Dates and Rates:

Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays from 9:30 – 11am

Fall 2025: September 15 – November 21, 2025 (10 weeks) | $250

Spring 2026: March 30 – June 5, 2026 (10 weeks) | $250

Enroll today and unlock the transformative magic of our Forest Families Program!

Location

Forest Families is held at Sugar Valley Farm, here in Oro Medonte. The property is located off Ingram Rd across from P3 in the Copeland Forest.

H8QP+HJ, Oro-Medonte, ON L0K 1E0, Canada

Our Mission

Oro Medonte Forest School’s mission is to create an educational community that fosters rich, experiential learning, age appropriate ecological literacy, and promotes healthy living by connecting children to nature through the use of the Forest School model in the foundational early years.