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Frequently Asked Questions

We've compiled a list of the most common questions we receive to help make your experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Whether you're considering enrolling your child in one of our programs or are a current participant seeking more information, these FAQs are designed to provide you with quick answers to your inquiries. If you have questions that aren't covered here, please feel free to reach out directly through our contact page or by emailing info@thewildschool.org

What ages do you cater to at The Wild School?

We offer programs for children aged up to 10 years old. Each program is tailored to fit the developmental needs and interests of different age groups.

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Where are your classes held?

Our classes are held in multiple natural settings across Houston, including Katy, Cypress, Sugarland, Rosenberg, and Brazos Bend State Park, ensuring a variety of ecological landscapes for learning. See the specific parks we offer classes at here.

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Are your programs safe for young children?

Yes, safety is our top priority. All activities are supervised by trained professionals who are CPR and First Aid certified.

4

What should my child bring to class?

Children should come prepared with weather-appropriate clothing, a water bottle, sun protection (sunscreen and a hat), and any necessary personal items. For specific class requirements, please refer to the Parent Handbook.

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How do you handle inclement weather?

As a fully outdoor program, we monitor weather conditions closely. Classes are conducted rain or shine; however, in the event of severe weather conditions that pose safety risks, such as thunderstorms or extreme temperatures, we will notify parents of any changes or cancellations at least 30 minutes prior to the start of class. 

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Can I attend class with my child?

Yes, our only programs offered at this time are designed as caregiver and child sessions, promoting family engagement and support throughout the learning process. In the future we will offer Caregiver-optional classes. 

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What are your class sizes?

Class sizes are kept small to ensure quality learning experiences and meaningful interaction with nature. Typically, our classes have between 8 to 15 children depending on the age group and location.

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Do you offer any discounts?

We offer occasional promotional discounts. Please check our pricing page or contact us directly for the most current discount offers.

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How do I register my child for classes?

You can register your child at this link. This is where you'll find details on how to sign up and program costs. After you pay enroll in the class, you will receive an email on how to finish registration and complete the necessary documentation. If you need assistance during the registration process, please contact us.

10

What is your cancellation policy?

Once you have registered for the class you will not be able to receive a refund. Due to the structure of the class semester/season we do not offer cancellations once enrolled in a season. For more flexible options you can book a drop-in class to decide if the program is right for you. 

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Is The Wild School a good fit for my child?

Spending time outdoors benefits everyone, year-round. At The Wild School, we encourage families to explore and learn together. While our programs are designed to be inclusive and adaptable, it's essential for children to be able to follow instructions in natural settings and for parents to ensure their children are dressed appropriately for the weather. If you're unsure whether our program meets your needs, please contact us with your questions.

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What are your health and safety policies?

At The Wild School, ensuring the health and safety of our students is our top priority. Before each class, our educators conduct a site survey to identify and mitigate any potential hazards. We actively teach our students and their caregivers about safe practices in natural environments, and each class is accompanied by a risks and benefits binder that details all local hazardous plants and animals, in addition to a fully stocked first aid kit.

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All of our teachers are trained in First Aid and are equipped with cell phones to promptly address any emergencies or injuries. We empower our students with the knowledge and skills to perform real-life risk assessments, enhancing their gross motor skills and body awareness. This approach not only reduces the risk of injuries but also aids in developing a deep understanding of their physical limits.

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By encouraging children to explore and understand their boundaries under careful supervision, we help them build essential life skills such as proprioception and self-awareness, crucial for safety and confidence outdoors.

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What is a nature school?

Nature Schools, more commonly known as Forest Schools offer an alternative to traditional educational settings by operating entirely outdoors, regardless of weather conditions. This educational approach emphasizes hands-on, practical learning experiences that allow children to explore and interact with the natural environment at their own pace. Under the guidance of trained educators, children develop essential skills, pursue their interests, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. This method fosters a unique, child-led learning experience that encourages independence and a profound connection with nature. 

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Learn more about Nature Schools here.

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What programs do you offer?

At The Wild School, we offer a variety of outdoor educational programs that immerse children in nature, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the environment:

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  • Little Sprouts Class: Specially designed for infants and toddlers aged 0 to 3 years, this program focuses on sensory experiences and early exploratory activities in natural settings.

  • Nature Explorers Class: For children aged 3 to 6 years, this class includes nature walks, wildlife observation, and interactive environmental education.

  • Trail Blazers Class: Outdoor play and skill-building opportunities for children aged 6 to 10, allowing them to engage creatively with peers in various natural environments, and build their self-confidence.

  • Seasonal Camps and Mini-Sessions: These are intensive educational experiences offered sporadically throughout the year, each themed around different aspects of nature and outdoor skills.

  • Special Events and Field Trips: We also offer field trips and special events focused on nature activities or volunteering, enhancing our students’ connection to their community and the natural world.

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Each program is thoughtfully designed to support the developmental stages of children, ensuring that every outdoor experience is educational, engaging, and enjoyable.

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​When are classes offered? 

The Wild School operates year-round, offering structured outdoor classes across three main seasons: Fall, Winter/Spring, and Summer. To maximize the benefits of our nature-based curriculum, we recommend that children participate throughout the entire school year. Additionally, we host various camps and mini-sessions sporadically throughout the year to further enrich our community’s experience with nature.

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Will you offer drop off programs in the future?

Our vision includes introducing drop-off programs starting in the Fall season of September. We are continuously evolving our offerings to meet the needs of our community and welcome suggestions from families. If you have ideas or feedback, please don't hesitate to contact us. We value your input as we develop and expand our nature-based educational programs.

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