"For a child, it is in the simplicity of play that the complexity of life is sorted, like puzzle pieces joined together to make sense of the world."
​-L.R. Knost
At Snails & Turkey Tails, our mission is to inspire a love of learning through holistic, nature-based play that engages the senses. It is through both structured and unstructured play that children make sense of the world around them. As child psychologist, Penelope Leach, reminds us, "for a small child, there is no division between playing and learning, between the things he or she does just for fun and the things that are educational. The child learns while living, and any part of living that is enjoyable is also play."
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We offer programs for children ages 6 months - 5 years old. While play will look different within this age range, the benefits are the same. Play is what kids do naturally so it’s easy to overlook what is really going on when young children are playing — they are exploring, discovering and learning about how the world works. The American Academy of Pediatrics puts it this way: “Play is not frivolous. It enhances brain structure and function and promotes executive function — the process of learning, rather than the content.” When a baby smiles and laughs in a game of peekaboo, they’re learning. When a toddler stacks blocks and then knocks them down, or a preschooler pretends to be a pirate, they aren’t just having fun, they are learning. Research shows that play impacts everything from a child’s physical abilities and vocabulary to problem-solving, creativity, teamwork and empathy.
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​​Our classes celebrate the magic of early childhood. Our philosophy emphasizes unstructured play, development of practical skills, and environmental stewardship, aiming to cultivate empathy and a profound connection with both nature and community. We aim to cultivate creativity, curiosity, and deep gratitude for the natural world while instilling an unwavering sense of community and belonging.
Our Core Values
Curiosity & Wonder -
We encourage the children to question, explore, and discover the world around them. This value is central to fostering lifelong learners who are always eager to understand more about the world around them.
Sense of Place -
Our curriculum emphasizes a deep connection to the local environment, and changing seasons, helping children develop a sense of place. This grounding helps them appreciate the uniqueness of their surroundings and understand their role in their community and ecosystem.
Unstructured Play -
Unstructured play is vital for child development, providing opportunities for creativity and social interaction without set boundaries. This kind of play allows children to use their imagination freely, which is crucial for cognitive and social development.
Creativity & Interconnectedness -
Creativity is fostered not just in arts, but in problem-solving and interaction. We teach children to see the interconnectedness of their world, linking lessons in nature to broader life lessons, which cultivates a holistic understanding of their environment and community.
Environmental Stewardship -
We instill a strong sense of environmental stewardship, teaching children the importance of caring for the Earth through sustainable practices. This core value ensures that students grow to respect and protect nature, contributing positively to environmental conservation.
Community Engagement -
We prioritize building a vibrant community. Our approach encourages cooperation, mutual respect, and active participation, connecting students, families, and local entities to cultivate a supportive and interconnected environment.
"Encourage your kids to look for nature everywhere you go. It's the weed breaking through a crack in the pavement. It's the leaves forming small clumps along the side of a road. It's the sky at any given time of the day or night. It's the wind doing what it likes with your hair. Look around, it won't take long to find it."
- Penny Whitehouse