Learn in nature. Learn from nature.
NATURE CLASSES FOR CHILDREN AND THEIR GROWNUPS
Each week, children and their grownups gather outdoors to dive into a seasonal nature-based topic. Through storytelling, hands-on projects, nature studies, and open exploration, children learn about and connect with the natural world.
While children play and learn, grownups are encouraged to support their children, connect with each other, engage in hands-on projects, and sit back and soak up the fresh air when possible.
Siblings of varying ages may attend together. Younger and older siblings are always welcome! We recommend choosing the class based on the oldest child’s age.
Nature Classes are offered year long, in the following 10-week sessions:
Fall: September 9 - November 23
Winter: January 4 - March 26
Spring: April 5 - June 15
Summer Session
June 23 - August 31
~ now enrolling ~
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Seedlings, for ages 0 - 3
Mondays 9am - 12pm
Sprouts, for ages 3 - 6
Wednesdays 9am - 12pm
Saplings, for all ages
Tuesdays 10am - 1pm
Younger & older siblings are welcome to attend class together, regardless of age. We recommend choosing the class based on the oldest child’s age.
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9 - 9:30 am - Morning Meeting: Story, Song & Nature Study
9:30 - 10 am - Cooking Class: prepare & enjoy seasonal snack
10 - 11:30 pm - Nature Exploration & Hands-On Projects
11:30 - 12 pm - Gather for Lunch & Closing Circle
We always follow the children’s lead, going with the flow to allow children to move freely and explore their intrinsic interests.
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Our Nature Classes gather in (amost) all weather.
Families are encouraged to dress for rain, snow & wind. On cold days we will build a fire to warm up around.
Class will be rescheduled if there are thunderstorms or a weather advisory due to freezing temperatures or excessive heat.
Each session has built in weeks for make-up classes.
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Yellow Farmhouse at Stone Acre Farm
393 N Main St, Stonington, CT 06378
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10-Week Class Cost:
$300/one child + $50 per sibling*
*There is no charge for siblings under 2 years. Younger & older siblings always welcome.
From a parent:
“We have been taking our daughters, Lucia and Marion, to Martina's nature classes for quite some time now, and she is truly exceptional. We were thrilled to hear she was launching Moonlit Farm & Folk School. There is simply no one better to guide children in this holistic education. Martina is an absolute gem—she is not only an extraordinary presence but is also highly knowledgeable and deeply passionate about her craft. She has a rare gift for making the natural world accessible, engaging, and awe-inspiring for young learners. It has been such a joy to watch our children use their imagination freely, and we've loved seeing them make wonderful new friends in a safe, nurturing environment. Even better, when Marion was still a baby, Martina never hesitated to help care for her so Momma and Lucy could fully enjoy and focus on the class. The depth of her commitment shines through in every lesson, and our girls always come home full of exciting stories about what they discovered. If you are looking for an immersive, enriching, and heartfelt program where your family can connect with nature and learn essential skills, look no further than Moonlit Farm & Folk School. We are so excited to continue our journey with Martina and recommend her without hesitation!
~ Julia, Tyler, Lucia, and Marion
FALL Session
SEP 9 - NOV 23
Days & Ages
Sprouts, for ages 18 months - 3 years
Mondays 9:00am - 12:00pm
Seedlings, for ages 3- 5 years
Wednesdays 9:30am - 12:30pm
Sprouts, for ages 18 months - 3 years
Thursdays 9:00am - 12:00pm
Saplings, for ages 5 - 10 years
Fridays 9:30am - 12:30pm
Siblings of varying ages may attend together. Younger and older siblings are always welcome! We recommend choosing the class based on the oldest child’s age.
Class Schedule
9:30 - 10 a.m.
Arrival & Open Play
10 - 10:15 a.m.
Morning Circle: Story, Song & Nature Study
10:15 - 10:45 a.m.
Cooking: prepare & enjoy seasonal snack
10:45 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Free Play: Exploration & Hands-On Projects
12 - 12:30 p.m.
Gather for Lunch & Closing Circle
(Monday & Thursday classes meet from 9am to 12pm)
This is a daily rhythm, not a fixed schedule - children show us what they need. The schedule shifts to meet the individual and collective needs of the group.
Weather Considerations
Nature Classes gather in (amost) all weather.
Grownups and children alike should come to class prepared to be outside in the sun, rain, snow, and wind. On cold days we build a fire to warm up around.
Class will be rescheduled if there are thunderstorms or a weather advisory due to freezing temperatures or excessive heat.
Each session has a built in week for a make-up class if we have to cancel. If we have to cancel more than once, families will receive a refund for that cancelled class.
Location
The Folk School takes place at Yellow Farmhouse Education Center on Stone Acres Farm in Stonington, Connecticut. Our outdoor classroom includes our morning circle, construction zone, mud kitchen, art area, and more.
“Stone Acres Farm is a sixty-three acre working farm located in Stonington, Connecticut. The property’s rolling hills, gardens, and acres of vegetable production are open to visitors. Stone Acres Farm celebrates natural farming, sustainable food, culinary education and the preservation of open space, cultural landscapes, and historic structures.”
Address: 393 N Main St, Stonington, CT 06378
Cost & Registration
10-Week Session:
$300/one child + $100 per sibling*
*There is NO charge for siblings under 2 years.
REMINDER: A caregiver is required to attend with your child/ren