At Muddy Roots Forest School our mission is to help children grow in confidence, creativity, and character through hands-on learning in nature. Rooted in the Forest School philosophy and shaped by Christian values, we create a space where kids can explore freely, take healthy risks, and build meaningful connections with each other, with the natural world, and with the values that shape a strong foundation for life.
We believe outdoor learning builds resilience, encourages curiosity, and supports the whole child—mind, body, and spirit. At Muddy Roots, we’re passionate about letting kids be kids, discovering who they are and how they fit into a bigger story.
We offer Forest School as a homeschool enrichment program, partnering with families to encourage children to grow, explore, and engage with nature in new and meaningful ways.
AGES: 4-9 yo
DAYS: Monday – Thursday
HOURS: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Flexible Enrollment: Campers can enroll in any combination of days (Monday through Thursday) or come for the full 4-day experience
Our goals:
Increase motivation, self-esteem, and concentration
Provide young children the time, space, and play to develop their fullest potential
Provide opportunities for activities to be child-initiated and child-led, with adults acting as facilitators
Build children’s ongoing relationship with the land, to one another, and to themselves
Provide opportunities to work collaboratively to create, problem solve, support one another, and dream of a bigger and better world
Encourage healthy habits and lifestyles
Facilitate children’s risk-taking, made as safe as is reasonably possible
Develop respect for the natural world and also respect for its dangers
Encourage family involvement in nature-related learning on site and at their homes
Stimulate children’s innate curiosity by being close to nature
Food at Camp
We are a nut free facility
Campers will bring their lunch and a snack with them each day Campers will be supervised and food will not be shared between campers to ensure allergies and food sensitivities are monitored
On occasion we will cook over the campfire or make a snack! We will be sure to include campers food restrictions when planning
Healthy Snack Choices: We encourage children to bring nutritious snacks such as fresh fruit, vegetables, whole grain crackers, and cheese. Avoiding sugary snacks and processed foods helps maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.
Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during outdoor activities. Children should bring a refillable water bottle to school each day, water breaks will be provided and we will always encourage consistent hydration.
Winter Food Tips: As the colder months roll in, we recommend packing more substantial snacks and lunches to keep your child energized. Great options include cheese, yogurt, deli meats, and nuts. A warm lunch in a thermos—like oatmeal, soup, or mac & cheese—along with extra snacks (more than you might think they’ll eat) can make a big difference for many kids. Important Note: A warm, nutrient-rich breakfast is crucial this time of year. It helps little ones stay fueled during their outdoor adventures!
Celebrating Birthdays: We love to celebrate each child’s special day and make it magical! However, we ask that parents refrain from sending in special foods or treats, as we prioritize nutritious eating and allergy awareness at forest school. Instead, please consider sending in a favorite book for your child to share with the class. Each class may have its own unique way of celebrating birthdays, ensuring these days are special for everyone!
Dietary Restrictions and Allergies: Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies your child may have so that we can accommodate their needs and ensure their safety.
Safety at camp
First Aid
In the event of an emergency, our staff is trained to respond swiftly and effectively. Directors are CPR certified. Emergency contact information for parents will be kept on file and all staff will have a first aid kit and cell phones on them at all times. Our staff conduct thorough risk assessments of the forest area and all planned activities. We prioritize safety by implementing appropriate safety measures and supervising children during outdoor play and exploration.
Weather
We embrace the diversity of weather conditions as opportunities for learning and exploration.
Children will engage in outdoor activities during most weather conditions, including rain, snow, and moderate cold. We believe that experiencing different weather patterns fosters resilience and an appreciation for nature.
Severe Weather: In cases of severe weather or safety concerns, such as thunderstorms or extreme cold, outdoor activities may be modified or moved indoors.
In the event of a thunderstorm, our protocol is to seek cover immediately. We will remain under cover for 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder to ensure safety before resuming outdoor activities.
Wildlife
Wildlife: While encounters with wildlife are rare, our staff are prepared to handle such situations calmly and responsibly. Children will be educated on wildlife safety and respectful behavior towards animals.
Ticks
There are ticks on the property. Throughout the school year, we will conduct midday and end-of-day tick checks on visible skin to ensure everyone's safety. While the woods offer many amazing benefits, nature also presents a few challenges that we will navigate and teach the children to be aware of. To protect the ecosystem, we are implementing preventative measures such as Cedar Chips and free-range chickens, which can eat up to 400 ticks a day!
Poison Ivy
We are aware of the poison ivy in our woods and are actively working to keep it out of the areas we will be using. We will stay in designated areas and educate the children on how to identify and avoid it. While part of our program takes place in the woods and involves certain risks, we will do everything possible to ensure the children do not come into contact with poison ivy, including inviting goats over to help eat it away!
Group Dynamics
All students will remain within eyesight and earshot of a teacher at all times. For most of the day, each class stays together in designated areas, but they may split into smaller groups for hikes, focused learning, or other activities. The only people that interact with the students during the day are employees or volunteers who have been thoroughly vetted.
Dispensing Medication
If your child takes any medications that must be administered during the school day, you will need to provide a signed authorization that allows teachers to administer medication, even non-prescription. Specific instructions regarding dosage, frequency, and symptoms of the condition for which the medication is administered should be listed on the authorization form signed by a parent. The medication should be labeled with the child’s name. The Muddy Roots staff member who administers the medication will document the time, the dosage, and any noticeable side effects.