Frequently Asked Questions
A: Austin Forest School is a private school program and Texas does not license private schools. However, we also own a separate licensed childcare program which exceeds standards for background checks, health and safety, and follow these same standards with Forest School as if it were licensed.
A: We are a full time program Monday- Friday with drop off at 9am, (don't be late! hike begins at 9:15), and pick up is by 4:30pm.
A: No. We are a full-time program. Our learners benefit best from a full time schedule and consistency of being immersed in our routine to truly thrive in an outdoor and autonomous setting.
Q: What ages do you enroll?A: This program is best suited for Kindergarten age learners and older. Some children may be ready at a younger age which is subjective to each child; their autonomy and their abilities matter more than age itself.
Q: How do I enroll my child?
A: Visit our application and get on our wait-list for future openings. *When we have a vacancy priority is given to learners already enrolled within our Green Village childcare & pre-k programs. We then open enrollment to those on our general wait-list.
Q: My child is on the younger end, do they need to be potty trained?
A: We believe that fully honoring our learners bodily autonomy requires slowing down and not forcing/rushing through potty learning. Best practices in child development suggest that the ideal time for potty learning is actually around 3.5 years old. We can accommodate a child who is still learning but past a certain age will require a referral to a specialist who can get them to thrive. If your child is currently 3.5-4 years old and struggling they could actually be exhibiting signs of chronic constipation which causes them to be unable to identify body signals that alert them they need to go or that they even have a wet or dirty diaper. Learn more about struggles with potty learning here ---> https://www.
Q:What does Forest School's curriculum look like? What will my child learn?
A: Forest School is a continuation of our infant and toddler programs at Green Village which are highly focused on Pikler and RIE approaches to early childhood. It is our philosophy to first and foremost focus on developing ethical and kind children in a play-based environment where they can learn who they are and how to navigate challenges while adults stand back and guide them with appropriate interpersonal skills to develop social and emotional skills that last a lifetime.
Curriculum is more geared towards adult education so that guides, teachers AND parents are informed and aligned with best practices in child rearing and development to age appropriately prepare our children with lifelong skills that will help them thrive.
Q: What does a day at Forest School look like?
A: Learners launch out as a group to settle in a spot and have a morning snack if they wish. From there they just play and spend their time connecting with themselves, each other, and nature. No location is permanent & we follow the consensus of the group to head out for a hike or find different locations to spend the day.
Q: Is Forest School really an outdoor program?
A: Yes. We are outside in the heat of the summer and cold of the winter, and rain is a favorite. Learners just need to show up in appropriate clothing & gear.
"There is no such thing as bad weather, just unsuitable clothing" -Alfred Wainwright
Q: What happens during inclement weather?
A: In case of extreme or inclement weather we have some back-up facilities where we can take a break to re-locate. The park also offers some structures where we can spend some time to get away from direct rain, wind, sun, etc. Though parents can make the decision to keep their children home during this weather we are unlikely to close unless roads and transportation would make the commute unsafe for our staff and families.