SNAILS & TURKEY TAILS
"Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt."
- John Muir
Welcome to Snails & Turkey Tails! Our program was created to get kids outside in the natural world where they learn through hands-on discovery. When you look at it closely, there really isn't one thing in the natural world that isn't completely fascinating. Ours is a play-based, child-led program that supports social and emotional development, strengthens language and numeracy skills, and inspires a life-long love of learning.
100% of our days are spent outdoors, rain or shine! Inspired by the Forest School pedagogy, we understand that there are so many benefits to nature-based education. Time spent exploring in the natural world builds skills like resilience, problem-solving, focus, self-regulation, creativity, self-confidence and it helps to reduce stress and boredom.
We offer half day classes for ages 3-6 and afternoon groups for ages 6-9. Classes are offered in monthly sessions. Choose from a 2-5 day schedule. We also have 8 weeks of summer camp and meet at China Camp and the Corte Madera Marsh. Pick and choose the weeks that work for your family. If you are part of the homeschool community and want to create a group, send us a message!
In the meantime, here a few simple ways to get started with nature-based learning at home:
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Have your child help with outdoor chores like weeding, sweeping and watering the garden.
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Go for a bike ride or walk on walking trails through parks and make it a regular activity.
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Organize play dates at the local park instead of in your home and let the children run wild.
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Make up a scavenger hunt for your next park visit and get your children to find as many on the list.
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Take old kitchen pots and tools to the beach to make mud pies, or even in your own garden if you have one.
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Take breakfast or lunch outside, either in your garden or at the local park, and have a picnic.
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Play hide and seek at the park, this will not only get children outdoors, but will increase their confidence in exploring new environments with a little independence.
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Show your child how to climb a tree or balance on a fallen tree log.
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After it rains, get the rain boots out and go muddy puddle jumping.
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Dust off the camping gear and go camping.
Our Approach
As an outdoor nature program, we think of nature as our third teacher. The natural environment gives children a unique experience and connection with nature. Children might engage in tree climbing, puddle jumping or potion making, among other things. Children are encouraged to get messy, take risks, and find adventure hidden within the natural world around them.
Our program is inspired by both the Forest School and Reggio Emilia philosophies. Our activities are child-led, which nurtures a sense of self, encourages collaboration skills, and inspires creativity. When the adult steps back and lets the child lead, the child is left to explore and use their natural abilities to problem solve. Kids have a chance to explore, play and learn in their own individual ways. Teachers become collaborators and work with students as they explore their special interests.
