How long is each Nature School session?
Each session of Nature School runs for 10 weeks, with students meeting for class once a week. Class times are available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, either in the morning from 10:30 am -12:00 pm or in the afternoon from 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm. There are three 10-week sessions offered seasonally each year: Fall, Winter, and Spring Nature School.
What does a typical day at Nature School look like?
Each day of class is roughly split into two halves: classroom learning time and outdoor (or interior Conservatory) exploration. During this time, we encourage students to make observations, ask questions, express themselves artistically, and play games to engage with our Natural History topic of the day.
Our curriculum is play-based and student-led by design, so every class will have a slightly different experience. The patterns in nature dictate the topics explored in our lesson plans, and we embrace the unexpected learning opportunities provided to us throughout the changing seasons. Given the seasonal nature of the program, Fall and Spring tend to spend more time in the Children’s Garden and Conservatory lawns, with a heavier focus on our interior biomes in the winter months (and snow play, when weather allows!).
What will my child learn at Nature School?
At Nature School, we cover a variety of natural history and botanical topics at an age-appropriate level, including Ohio wildlife, environmental science, insects, life cycles, and of course, horticulture. Students will learn how to grow plants, how to treat wildlife with care, and how to confidently explore the outdoors, all the while engaging in nature-based classroom play and guided, hands-on explorations. We strive to offer students a safe space to try new things, improve their critical thinking skills, practice creative expression, and develop their unique sense of place within the natural world.
With a mixed age group (3-5), Nature School is also designed to encourage cooperation and social/emotional development amongst peers. We are mindful of best practices in early childhood development, encouraging and guiding our students as they learn to work together and gain confidence among friends. Nature School is a great space for children who are new to group settings!
May I attend class with my child?
Nature School is a drop-off program, intended for students to attend without their grown-ups. A weekly newsletter will be distributed with pictures and updates from class to keep families up to date about what we’re doing each week. The newsletter also serves as a great springboard to continue the learning at home!
Families are welcome to either return to the Conservatory after class time is over, or if they are members, explore the Conservatory during class time
How much does Nature School cost?
Each 10-week session (either Fall, Winter, or Spring) is $250 for Conservatory Members, $300 for non-members.
Are there any scholarships available for Nature School?
Yes, limited scholarships are available to Access Members at the Conservatory. To learn more about our Access Family Memberships, visit our Access Offerings page here.
