Farm Fridays: all ages*

*(6+ drop off or under 6 with adult present)

Farm Fridays are centric to the Cosmic Roots Nature School experience, where students immerse themselves in the principles of permaculture, orchard management, gardening, farm-to-table practices, herbalism, and homesteading. This unique program provides hands-on learning opportunities that connect children with the natural world and foster a deep understanding of abundant living**.

Permaculture: Students learn the foundational concepts of permaculture, which emphasize creating sustainable and self-sufficient agricultural ecosystems. Through interactive activities, they explore how to design systems that work in harmony with nature, promoting biodiversity, soil health, and resource conservation.

Orchard Management: Our young learners engage in the care and maintenance of our school orchard. They gain practical experience in planting, pruning, and harvesting fruit trees, understanding the seasonal cycles and the importance of nurturing perennial plants. This hands-on work helps them appreciate the patience and dedication required to grow healthy, productive trees.

Gardening: In our extensive school gardens, students get their hands dirty planting, tending, and harvesting a variety of vegetables and herbs. They learn about crop rotation, companion planting, and organic pest control, developing skills that are essential for successful, sustainable gardening. The process of growing their own food instills a sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection to what they eat.

Farm-to-Table: Farm Fridays also include lessons on the farm-to-table movement, highlighting the journey of food from the garden to the plate. Students participate in preparing and cooking meals using fresh, school-grown produce. This not only teaches them valuable cooking skills but also emphasizes the importance of local, seasonal eating and the nutritional benefits of fresh, whole foods.

Herbalism: In our herbalism workshops, students discover the medicinal and culinary uses of herbs. They learn how to identify, grow, harvest, and prepare various herbs for teas, salves, and other natural remedies. This knowledge empowers them to utilize plants for health and wellness, fostering a respect for the healing properties of nature.

Homesteading: Farm Fridays also integrate homesteading skills, teaching students self-sufficiency and traditional crafts. They learn about raising and caring for small livestock, preserving food through canning and fermenting, and making homemade products like soap and candles. These activities encourage resourcefulness and a do-it-yourself spirit, empowering students to live more sustainably.

Farm Fridays are more than just a day of activities; they are an integral part of our educational philosophy. By engaging in these diverse aspects of sustainable agriculture and homesteading, students develop a holistic understanding of their environment, gain practical skills, and cultivate a lifelong appreciation for nature's bounty. Through these experiences, Cosmic Roots Nature School aims to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards who are equipped to lead sustainable, mindful lives.

Yearly tuition for this program as a stand-alone curriculum is $1,800. This program can also be purchased by season as a package of 12 Friday classes for $600. Space permitting, we will also allow for drop in Fridays ad-hoc. Drop in rates are $60/day.

Join us on Farm Fridays to cultivate a deeper connection to nature and learn how to live sustainably while making friends and having fun on the farm!

**want to know what we mean by abundant living? Check our values page!