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Early Elementary

At The Native School, we believe that the natural world is the best classroom for developing confident, resilient, and creative learners. Our Early Elementary offers a unique, nature-based learning experience inspired by Scandinavian forest schools, where children thrive through outdoor exploration, self-directed play, and hands-on learning.

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Our teachers guide each child’s unique journey by creating an environment that supports individuality, freedom to explore, and opportunities for risky play—critical elements in fostering courage, problem-solving, and resilience.

At The Native School, your child will not only grow academically, but also gain an appreciation for the natural world and develop a lasting commitment to caring for it.

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For our older learners, we also offer Homeschool Support and have a direct partnership with Julian Charter School.

12-week sessions beginning in September

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Mondays - Thursdays

8:10/8:30AM or 9:00/9:15AM - 12:10/12:30PM or 1:00/1:15PM

(location dependent)

Student holding a birds next during outdoor spring nature study

FOR CHILDREN AGED (5 YEARS or older on September 1st) TO ENGAGE IN SELF DIRECTED LEARNING & ADVENTURE PLAY, this includes:​

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  • Balancing student freedom with responsibility

  • Risky Play

  • Focus on Social/Emotional, Cognitive, Language, and Physical Development

  • Fostering environmental stewardship in all children

  • Practice in real-world skills 

  • Inquiry and Project based learning

  • Orton-Gillanham Literacy Instruction

Children laughing during imaginary play as they build relationships at SD forest school

Our Early Elementary Program takes place ‘RAIN OR SHINE’ in wild spaces where children have access to:

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  • Balancing student freedom with responsibility

  • Risky Play

  • Focus on Social/Emotional, Cognitive, Language, and Physical Development

  • Fostering environmental stewardship in all children

  • Practice in real-world skills 

  • Inquiry and Project based learning

  • Orton-Gillanham Literacy Instruction

Curious about forest schooling and the benefits of adventurous play?

“Every child, like every human being, is the constructor of knowledges, competencies, and autonomies”

- Reggio Emilia Approach

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