Family Resources
Welcome to our Family Resource page, we’re so glad you’re here! This is a space for everyone, with resources and inspiration to help families connect with the natural world through outdoor play. Time spent outside supports children’s growth in every way by building creativity, confidence, resilience, and a deep sense of belonging. Here, you’ll find ideas, research, and local spots to make nature play accessible no matter your budget or location.
Come explore, get outside, and join us, there’s truly room for everyone here!
The Importance of Outdoor Play
“Nature is a tool to get children to experience not just the wider world, but themselves.”
– Stephen Moss
This three minute presentation was created for FCPL's Caregiver Toolbox Series. Presented in-person by Megan Bell, April 2026
What is a Nature School?
A nature school is an educational approach that takes learning outside, rain or shine!
It nurtures curious, confident, and connected children through meaningful experiences in the natural world.
Rooted in nature.
Focused on children.
Growing a better world.
What Learning Looks Like
Discovery
Children explore, ask questions, and follow their curiousity
Play
Child-led play builds creativity, confidence and problem-solving skills
Connection
Deepening relationships with nature, others and community
Mindfulness
Time outdoors supports focus, well-being and emotional resilience
All Weather
We believe there is no such thing as bad weather, just good gear!
Place-Based
Learning is rooted in the local land, seasons, and community
We're not just teaching children about nature- we're part of it.
Nature is our classroom.
The world is our teacher.
Benefits for Children
PHYSICAL HEALTH
Supports strong bodies, coordination, and overall well-being
MENTAL & EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING
Reduces stress, boosts mood, and builds resilience
SOCIAL SKILLS
Encourages cooperation, empathy, and meaningful friendships
LIFELONG IMPACT
Fosters a love for learning and a commitment to caring for our planet
Children thrive when they have time, space and freedom to explore
What to Bring
WEATHER APPROPRIATE CLOTHING
WATER BOTTLE
NUTRITIOUS SNACK
A SENSE OF WONDER!
At a nature school, children grow
in every way- mind, body and heart
Come grow with us!
Tinkergarten
Outdoor classes for kids ages birth-8
WHAT IS TINKERGARTEN?
Tinkergarten is a nature-based early childhood education program that gets kids and grown-ups outside together.
Through play, exploration, and guided activities, we help children discover the wonder of the natural world.
We believe that together, we can raise a generation that loves the outdoors and cares for our world
THE BENEFITS OF TINKERGARTEN
STRONG START
Supports healthy physical, cognitive, and emotional development
NATURAL CURIOUSITY
Sparks wonder, creativity, and a love of learning through discovery
CONFIDENCE
Encourages independence, resilience, and risk-friendly play
CONNECTION
Builds relationships with nature, others, and the community
HEALTH & WELL-BEING
Fresh air, movement, and time outside reduce stress and support well-being
LIFELONG IMPACT
Helps kids grow into thoughtful stewards of the natural world
WHAT A TINKERGARTEN CLASS LOOKS LIKE
OUR CURRICULUM PILLARS
NATURE CONNECTION
Building a relationship with the natural world through all season
WELCOME CIRCLE
Songs, stories, and a warm welcome to our time together
OUTDOOR PLAY & EXPLORATION
Hands-on, child-led play that invites discovery, problem-solving, and joy
SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL GROWTH
Learning empathy, cooperation, communication and self-confidence
CREATIVITY & WONDER
Inspiring imagination and curiosity through open-ended exeriences
GUIDED ACTIVITY
Engaging, hands-on learning that sparks curiosity and wonder
FREE PLAY & EXPLORATIONS
Child-led time to play, explore, create and follow their interests
SNACK & STORY
Time to refuel, connect and enjoy a nature-inspired stor
CLOSING CIRCLE
Reflection, gratitude and looking ahead
We go outside not just to play but to grow
Benefits of Outdoor Education
Sunlight
Strengthens our bones
Provides free Vitamin D
Supports immune function
Reduced blood pressure
Supports a healthy sleep cycle
Sustains overall health
Fresh Air
Increases oxygen intake
Boosts the immune system
Lowers stress
Enhances our concentration
Aids with digestion
Increases energy levels
Physical Movement
Good for all bodies
Improves our cardiovascular and metabolic health
Boosts brain development
Better focus, memory and learning
Lower stress and anxiety
Supports social skills and problem solving
