We are wild about learning!
Who are we?
This project arose from the need for two mothers to find a space where their children could grow up in a different environment and in contact with nature. Together they created an outdoor learning community that started with playgroups for families with children up to 8 years old. The holiday camps followed, at the request of the families who got to know us, and the commemorative events.
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Having children of preschool age, we set out with the dream of providing these activities all year round for children of the same age group.
Inspired by the Forest School method, our approach focuses on the learning process led by children's interests in playing and learning outdoors. Recognizing the benefits, namely in terms of health and well-being, of the development of socio-emotional, cognitive and motor skills, we intend to trigger children's innate curiosity about the natural world and share unique learning experiences.
The space
Located in the Sintra/Cascais natural park, we couldn't ask for more from our surroundings. We are on the way to the Ribeira das Vinhas trail, which connects Cascais to Sintra. The space is located on private property, in a large area, with 5600m2, and access to a vegetable garden and small private pedagogical farm.
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Our space is safe, but at the same time, it preserves the freedom and challenges nature offers. Therefore, it is essential to protect nature in its essence so that the outside world can be exploitative as it is.
The space is also designed to be welcoming and in a familiar environment. We want children to feel safe and autonomous as if they were at home even though they have access to materials and activities common to the school context.
Schedules
For children to establish trust and benefit from an enriched learning community, we have developed our program to welcome them during the school period, from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm, with the possibility of extended hours (8:30 am to 5 pm), according to the needs of each family. We aim to provide a solid foundation of routines to help children feel safe and strengthen their bond with the community. Moreover, by knowing what to expect, the child is freed from worrying about the unknown and can concentrate better.
Come visit us!
You will find a space in the middle of nature, in contact with the earth, sand, water, animals, plants, and ecological materials. Where adventure, autonomy, challenge, freedom and calm are promoted. Where children behave like children and, at the same time, mature because the expectations placed on them are high but realistic, and their times are respected.
“Education begins the moment we see children as innately wise and capable beings. Only then can we play along in their world.”
Vince Gowman