Big Trees

What to expect:

1 outdoor class per week during 7-week sessions – Tuesdays, Thursdays or Fridays 

9:30AM-11:30AM

1 teacher (Teacher Holly), 12 children and 12 parents 

Open to children ages 2-8 (siblings under 2 can join, but children 2+ must register)

A day in our outdoor classroom:

  • Learning about the natural environment during guided nature hikes

  • A musical circle time with stories and snacks

  • Nature-based arts and crafts 

  • Unstructured play allowing kids to interact meaningfully with their peers and surroundings

  • Balancing, climbing, jumping, running and a variety of gross motor skills activities

  • Problem-solving and critical thinking through exploration and observation

  • Children’s literature inspired by nature and the outdoors

Children learn to open their senses as they venture out on weekly guided nature walks throughout local nature preserves, city, and county parks. 

Topics and locations will vary from week to week, but are specifically designed for children ages 24 months to 8 years old. 

All children must be accompanied by an adult caregiver at all times. Classes are held rain or shine, so weather-appropriate attire is strongly encouraged.

Big Trees families are an extended part of the CCNS community and receive the following additional community benefits:

  • Parent Education Speaker Nights

    • Past topics have included: setting boundaries, child nutrition, kindergarten readiness, positive parenting, importance of play

  • Family Events

    • Big Trees Families are invited to join in CCNS Family Events (ex. Trunk or Treat, Messy Art Day, CCNS Farmers Market and more!)

2023-2024 Session Schedule

WINTER SESSION

  • Runs January 19 - March 8, 2024

  • Registration Opens: December 16, 2023

  • New Parent Meeting: January 6, 2024

SPRING SESSION

  • Runs March 18 - May 10th, 2024

  • Registration Opens: February 17, 2024

  • New Parent Meeting: March 9, 2024

Tuition

$215/session per enrolled child age 2+