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Our Programs

At Northwoods Forest School, we believe that nature is the best classroom. Our programs are designed to nurture curiosity, resilience, and a deep connection to the natural world. We offer a variety of nature-immersive experiences for children and families:

Early Education (Ages 3.5 and up)

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Schedule: Mondays, 9:15 AM – 2:15 PM​ (Drop-Off 9:15-9:30 - Pick-Up 2:15-2:30)

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Overview: Our preschool/early education program provides a gentle introduction to structured learning through play-based, nature-centered activities. Rooted in Waldorf and Scandinavian educational philosophies, we focus on fostering creativity, social skills, and a love for the outdoors.​

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Highlights:

  • Nature Exploration: Daily walks, sensory activities, and seasonal observations.​

  • Creative Arts: Storytelling, music, handcrafts, and natural material art projects.​

  • Practical Skills: Gardening, simple cooking, and basic tool use.​

  • Social Development: Emphasis on cooperation, empathy, and community building.​

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Tuition: $40 per day​

Sibling Discount: 50% off for one sibling​

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Registration Fee: A one-time, non-refundable fee of $90 per student, covering materials for the session.​

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Additional Notes:

  • Gear Program: We provide quality winter and rain gear to ensure all children are prepared for outdoor activities in various weather conditions.​

  • Meals: Lunch Provided; Organic + Whole Food option only. Children bring packed snacks or alternative lunches from home; we provide bento boxes to encourage healthy, waste-free meals.

Adventure Forest School (Ages 6 to 12)

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Schedule: Tuesdays - 9:15 am to 2:15 pm  (Drop-Off 9:15-9:30, Pick-Up 2:15-2:30)

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Our Forest Program is a drop-off experience designed for homeschoolers and children who thrive with supplemental outdoor learning and social connection. Each session focuses less on academics and more on hands-on exploration, practical skills, and meaningful group activities. Children spend their day immersed in the natural world—building, creating, and learning together through the rhythms of the forest. At the heart of Northwoods is a focus on living sciences, arts, and collaborative projects, all woven into an environment where curiosity and community grow side by side.

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Highlights:

  • Ecology Lessons: Hands-on studies of local flora and fauna.​

  • Survival Skills: Shelter building, plant identification, and fire-building.

  • Artistic Expression: Nature journaling, eco-art, and storytelling.​

  • Community Projects: Collaborative endeavors like habitat restoration and garden cultivation.​

  • More about our Hearthwood Adventure Forest School program! 

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Tuition: $40 per day​

Sibling Discount: 50% off for one sibling​

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Registration + Material Fee: A one-time, non-refundable fee of $90 per student, covering materials for the session.

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Additional Notes:

  • Gear Program: We provide quality winter and rain accessories for older students - such as waterproof mittens, insulated hats, boot liners if needed; to ensure a comfortable  outdoor experience.

  • Meals: Snacks Provided; Organic + Whole Food option only. Children bring packed  lunches from home. Please provide meals without high sugars or food-coloring for the best outdoor experience. 

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Consultations + Training

Forest School Consultation
 

Whether you're dreaming of starting a forest school or already guiding one and seeking new inspiration, this consultation is designed to meet you where you are.

Join Northwoods Forest School founder and director, Sara Lombardo, for a one-on-one session that brings clarity, confidence, and warmth to your journey.
 

We’ll walk through the heart of what makes a thriving nature-based program — from rhythms and licensing to curriculum flow and community connection — helping you weave both the practical and the poetic together.
 

Consultations available:
• On your campus (on-site visit)
• Virtually (via Zoom)
• At Northwoods Forest School (Pine River, MN)

 

Common topics:
Starting your own program • Licensing + logistics • Curriculum design • Rhythm + flow • Parent connection • Site setup • Staff training + guidance • Apps + social media

 

Perfect for new founders, early educators, and homeschool leaders ready to bring meaningful, nature-rich learning to life.

 

Nature-Based Teaching Certification

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Certification is offered twice a year, May or October. You may book now, or email: northwoodsforestschool.mn@gmail.com to request more information. 

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Our Address

P.O. Box 240

Pine River, MN 56474

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  • © 2025 Northwoods Forest School. All rights reserved.

Forest School Hackensack MN
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