Youth Programming

Youth Programming at the Avon Hills Folk School

At the heart of our youth programming is the philosophy that children flourish when given the time and space to play in sensory-rich, experiential learning environments. Bringing exploration and nature together results in a truly unique way to reach children at a key point in their development.

Please see below for more about TimberNook experiences offered at the Avon Hills Folk School. If you’re looking for programming for teenagers, many of our regular courses allow for students 14+. Age limits are in the course descriptions.

What is TimberNook?

TimberNook is an innovative, nature-based developmental program designed to foster creativity, imagination, and independent play in the great outdoors. TimberNook was founded by a pediatric occupational therapist and developed upon a large body of peer-reviewed research that supports the importance of incorporating nature-based play into the school day.

What is the TimberNook Philosophy?

The TimberNook curriculum utilizes the pedagogy of play to promote deep and meaningful learning in students and supports development of the whole child. TimberNook settings and experiences are carefully analyzed for both their therapeutic and educational value in order to provide students with the opportunity to utilize all of their senses, their mind, and their body to the fullest.

The curriculum encourages complex social interactions, reasonable risk-taking, problem solving, the development of fine motor skills, balance and overall strength, independent thought, emotional regulation, tactile (touch) processing, proprioceptive (joint/muscle awareness) processing, multi-level learning, motor planning, and creativity.

Most importantly, TimberNook reveals the fun in outdoor learning. Students have the opportunity to build elaborate designs and structures. By offering students authentic ways to demonstrate the application of their knowledge they develop a love for learning, creativity, and critical thinking.

Program Benefits

  • Enhanced Learning

    TimberNook provides children with the opportunity to engage in child-directed play. Research has shown that this type of play improves content retention and attentiveness in school, and executive function skills, such as planning, initiation, and problem solving.

  • Supports Development

    TimberNook experiences meet a range of developmental needs that are not typically part of a content-based curriculum. Children are encouraged to take age-appropriate risks, engage their senses, and challenge their body and mind in ways that sitting in a regular classroom do not provide.

  • Intentional Curriculum

    TimberNook provides tools to foster learning through play. The curriculum is intentionally designed to inspire creativity by provoking curiosity in children. Extended time, ample space, and natural loose parts are just a few key components used to support full immersion in deep and meaningful play with peers.

  • Advanced Social Skills

    Throughout the TimberNook programming, children practice listening to others’ ideas, negotiating, compromising, collaborating, regulating emotions, and executing complex play schemes with their peers in nature.

Students are given the opportunity to:

  • Demonstrate the application of their knowledge

  • Participate as a member of an interdependent community

  • Design and construct complex structures out of a variety of materials

  • Care for themselves and those around them

  • Cooperate with other students to accomplish group goals

  • Be inquisitive and make connections

  • Initiate new ideas and invent solutions to problems

  • Care for common spaces and materials to maintain cleanliness and order

  • Act in stewardship for the environment and one’s own health and well‐being

  • Develop physical strength and balance through running, catching, throwing, kicking, climbing, jumping, and rolling

  • Create and develop complex play schemes

  • Be immersed in and develop a love for the outdoors

FAQ

Q: What is the Adult to Child Ratio?

A: 1 to 6. We find this is critical for ensuring a positive and safe experience for the children and the adult Team Members.

Q: Is there a maximum # of children in each program/experience?

A: Yes, currently we have set that at 18, also to ensure a positive and safe experience.

Q: Do parents/guardians drop their children off or do they stay with them for the experience?

A: Children are dropped off and picked up at the scheduled dismissal time. This allows for one of the guiding principles of TimberNook: Provide children with the Space and Time for a truly child-led experience.

One exception to this is our Tiny Ones Experiences where parents stay with their 18-36 month old "tiny one" during the experience.

Q: Does the TimberNook program run in all weather conditions?
A: Yes! TimberNook runs in all weather conditions except for severe weather events. Please ensure your child is dressed appropriately for the weather and packs plenty of food and water. If severe weather arises during a program, we will move to a safe location on campus until it passes. If a program must be canceled due to severe weather, a refund will be issued.

Q: Is the program inclusive?
A: Absolutely. Our nature program is a safe and welcoming place for children and families of all abilities, backgrounds, belief systems, and sexual orientations.

Q: Are the play areas fenced?
A: No, the boundaries of the play area are not fenced. Children are expected to stay within designated boundaries and maintain visual contact with TimberNook staff at all times.

Q: What are the expectations for children's independence?
A: Other than those who attend with guardians in the Tiny Ones programs, children should be able to manage their own needs, including eating, drinking, and using the restroom, and should be comfortable being outdoors.

Q: What if my child needs additional support?
A: We understand that each child is unique. If your child requires extra support, please contact us in advance to discuss accommodations.

Q: Is financial assistance available?
A: Yes! If cost is a barrier, please reach out to inquire about available subsidies. We also welcome donations to help subsidize spots for families in need.

Q: What if the program is full?
A: If the program is at capacity, sign up for the waitlist here.