Program

An immersive day in the woods.

Our co-op offers a 6-hour weekly outdoor experience at Holliday Park. We prioritize hands-on, real-world experiences that encourage children and adults to grow our innate biophilia, discover our inner power, and feel at home in the natural world.

Location
Holliday Park, Indianapolis
Schedule
Mondays · 9 AM–3 PM
Season
Labor Day to Memorial Day
Ages
3.5 to 6 years
Capacity
15 children
Age requirement

Children must be 3.5 years old on the first day and cannot turn 7 before the last day.

For the 2026–2027 year, the first forest day is September 14, 2026 and the last is May 24, 2027. That means your child's date of birth must fall between May 24, 2020 and March 14, 2023. We cannot make exceptions — the range keeps the group safe and well-matched in the woods.

The rhythm of a day in the forest

A gentle, predictable shape — held loosely enough for the land to surprise and guide us.

  1. 9:00 AM
    Arrival & free play

    Greetings, music, free play and fellowship.

  2. 9:30 AM
    Opening Circle

    Gather together to share stories, songs, plans, crafts, treasures, and fun.

  3. 10:30 AM
    Child-led exploration

    Risky play, building, mud, water, climbing — guided but never rushed.

  4. 12:00 PM
    Lunch

    Packed lunches, stories, songs, and quiet rest on the forest floor.

  5. 1:00 PM
    Walkabout and Adventure

    Time to explore the land and test our endurance and awareness.

  6. 2:30 PM
    Closing circle

    Gratitude, reflection, and a look ahead to next session.

What families commit to

Volunteer six times a year

Every family takes at least six forest days alongside the guides — this is how we cooperate to guide the children outdoors.

Attend parent nights

One Thursday evening, every other month, for adults only.

Dress for the weather

We go out in rain, mud, and cold. The full gear list is below — please have it ready before the first day.

Show up on Mondays

Consistency is what builds the children's confidence in the woods and in each other.

The gear list

There is no bad weather, only bad gear. Everything below is required. Feel free to reach out to us anytime for recommendations on gear. We will also do our best to organize gear swaps. Label every item with your child's name.

Warm weather gear
  • Durable backpack with multiple pockets and a place for a water bottle
  • 1 filled water bottle, durable and leak-proof
  • Clothes to get wet in (swimsuit)
  • Durable lunchbox
  • Packed lunch — no refrigeration, boiling water, or microwave required
  • 2 healthy snacks — no refrigeration, boiling water, or microwave required
  • Complete change of clothes
  • Plastic bags to transport soiled clothes
  • Sport sandals with an ankle strap that let feet breathe and get wet, or other creek-stomping footwear
Wet & muddy days (fall & spring)
  • Waterproof rain jacket with a hood — not a windbreaker
  • Waterproof rain pants or a full rain suit
  • Rubber rain boots plus wool or synthetic socks
  • A warm mid-layer fleece for cool mornings
Winter (we still go out)
  • Insulated, waterproof snow pants or bibs
  • Insulated, waterproof winter coat with a hood
  • Waterproof insulated boots sized for thick socks
  • Two pairs of waterproof mittens — wet hands end a day fast
  • Warm hat that covers the ears.
  • Wool or synthetic base layers — no cotton next to the skin
Please leave at home
  • Cotton sweatpants, jeans, and cotton socks — they hold cold and wet
  • Crocs, sandals, and light sneakers on cold days
  • Toys, screens, and anything your family would be sad to lose

Fees

$100 one-time enrollment fee, then $215/month for nine months. An optional $25 application fee.

**Options for financial assistance.

Dates & the 30-session year

All session dates, scheduled breaks, parent meetings, and seasonal celebrations for 2026–2027 live on one page.

View the calendar

Join the movement.

The Earth pulses with life. We belong here among the trees, bugs, birds, and critters. Our shared home is for all beings. We'd love to welcome your family for 2026–2027.