Have questions? We can help.
Isn't CO too extreme to hold classes almost exclusively outside?
Colorado has some extreme temperatures, but it also has many nice days. Children participating in the Nurtured by Nature program must be ready to spend prolonged, daily time outdoors, no matter the weather. If a day has been deemed unsafe to be outside, students should still come prepared to go outside should the conditions change, or we can go out for short periods. Please see the gear checklist for a detailed list of required gear. Please see the weather guidelines for a general overview of when we will use our indoor space.
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What if I need to bring my child late or pick up early?
The late drop-off or early pickup window is from 12:10 to 12:45. Due to our nomadic immersion into natural areas, this timeframe is not subject to exceptions.
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How will I know where to meet you?
Each natural area will have a designated drop-off and pickup spot that will be communicated to families in advance. If we have to change to our indoor location, or vice versa, to our outdoor location, parents will be notified as soon as we decide and it is safe to do so.
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My child takes naps at home. Will my child be able to nap? My child doesn't nap at home. Does she/he/they have to nap at Nurtured by Nature?
Play is serious work. Being outdoors all day, moving, playing, and creating will take its toll. Every child, regardless of whether he/she/they nap at home, will be required to have a nap/rest/quiet time each day. All students must remain in their sleeping space for 30 minutes with their voices off. After 30 minutes, students who did not fall asleep can leave their sleeping space and engage in quiet, independent activities. The total rest time provided is one hour.
NOTE: Nurtured by Nature will practice outdoor napping. If it is safe to play outside, it is safe to rest/sleep outside.
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Benefits of sleeping outside
Better sleep. Even in cold temperatures, sleeping outside helps children sleep deeper and longer. Sleeping outdoors also helps them fall asleep faster when they are older.
There is less illness. Children who sleep outside are breathing fresh air rather than dry, recycled, or stale air. Flu, colds, and other sicknesses are spread more quickly in indoor environments.
Improved Learning. Children receive deeper sleep, which helps them wake up more refreshed and alert and improves their cognitive skills.
More calm and improved mood. Nature is soothing and calming, and children benefit from this serenity.
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