Afterschool Forest School, ages 5-12
Mondays, 3:45pm - 5:15pm @ Painted Oak Nature School
class size limited to 14 children with 2 adult guides
'Possum Pack is our after school enrichment program that takes place entirely outdoors from 3:45 - 5:15pm for children ages 5-10 years old.
This program allows our current Lower and Middle School students to extend their day once a week.
Alumni Oakers are encouraged to attend 'Possum Pack where they will reconnect with their beloved woods.
Children new to Painted Oak are also welcome to join our group to round out their academic day with outdoor adventures, kinship, and play.
'Possum Pack provides children respite from a busy day of learning, be it at nature school, or at a local elementary school where they have spent their day primarily indoors. We set up a rhythm that is both flexible and predictable allowing each child to feel comfortable and confident with the structure of the afternoon. We let the children's needs, feelings, and energies be our guide as we move through transitions.
SAMPLE RHYTHM ~
3:45pm - As the children arrive from various schools, we provide a variety of options to meet their needs based on their energy level, personality, and interests. If they are full of energy to burn off, we have nature games and materials available for that. If they
are tired after a long day and need to sit quietly under a tree drawing
or just listening to the birds, we have space for that. If they want to
just hang out enjoying an afternoon snack and tea around the fire before engaging in activity, we have space for that. The start of our time together focuses on allowing each child to connect with their surroundings and to each other as they settle in to the space.
4:15pm - We circle up together around the fire to share songs, stories of our days, whittle, roast marshmallows, and ask questions to ponder. Teachers present materials and tools that are available for the children's use during their forest play time. If anyone is interested in going for a hike, we grab walking sticks and head out. This time belongs to the children and teachers are available as supportive guides and resources.
5:15pm - A pack howl at the moon marks the end of our time together as parents arrive taking their marsupial home happy, healthy, and dirty!
2023-2024 Sessions
Mondays 3:45-5:15pm
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$440 per session (11 classes)
March 4 - May 20
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​children who are not enrolled in our Primary School are welcome and encouraged to attend 'Possum Pack after their regular day program
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100% outside, in all weather
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'Possum Pack is held at our home campus in Hopewell, NJ.