"Our mission is to inspire young children to develop a lifelong connection to the natural world through hands-on, play-based learning experiences in outdoor environments. We nurture curiosity, creativity, and resilience by fostering a deep respect for nature, promoting social-emotional growth, and encouraging exploration, discovery, and environmental stewardship."
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At Snails & Turkey Tails, we believe that early childhood is a sacred time of discovery, wonder, and growth. Guided by the principles of Forest School and inspired by the teachings of Friedrich Froebel, we offer a child-centered, play-based environment where the natural world is both classroom and teacher.
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We view nature not as a backdrop but as a vital participant in the learning journey. Through immersive outdoor experiences in woodlands, meadows, and beaches, children develop a deep connection to the Earth, fostering a lifelong respect for the environment. Rain or shine, we believe in the value of regular and repeated access to wild spaces, where children are free to explore, question, and engage with the world through all their senses.
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Echoing Froebel’s vision of education as a harmonious unfolding of the child’s innate potential, we see each child as an individual with unique strengths, rhythms, and interests. We support holistic development—physical, emotional, social, and cognitive—through meaningful play, hands-on exploration, and nurturing relationships. Our educators act as guides and co-learners, observing closely, asking thoughtful questions, and providing materials that invite curiosity and creativity.
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Core to our philosophy is the belief that play is the highest form of learning. We offer open-ended natural materials—sticks, stones, leaves, water, and mud—as tools for storytelling, problem-solving, and imaginative expression. These “loose parts” encourage children to construct their own understanding of the world, strengthening both agency and resilience.
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We value risk-taking as essential to learning. In a supported and safe environment, children are encouraged to climb, balance, build, and challenge themselves physically and emotionally. These experiences foster confidence, independence, and a deep sense of self-efficacy.
Ultimately, our goal is to nurture curious, compassionate, and capable individuals who not only thrive in the natural world but carry their reverence for it into all aspects of life.​​
THE CHILDREN'S OUTDOOR BILL OF RIGHTS
The Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights (sometimes called the Children’s Nature Bill of Rights) is a set of principles that affirm every child’s right to connect with nature and the outdoors. While versions may vary by region, the core idea is to ensure children have opportunities to engage with nature for their physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
1. ​Explore nature and the outdoors freely.
2. Play in the dirt and get muddy.
3. Run through the grass and feel the sunshine.
4. Climb trees and rocks.
5. Splash in water, lakes, streams, or puddles.
6. Watch wildlife in its natural habitat.
7. Camp under the stars or have outdoor adventures.
8. Grow a plant or a garden.
9. Learn outdoor skills, like hiking or building a fire safely.
10. Help protect nature and understand environmental stewardship.