AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Why choose an outdoor after-school program?
The average American child spends less than 10 minutes playing outside per day. Experts recommend at least 3 hours. We know that outdoor movement has a positive impact on mental health, improves quality of sleep, boots the immune system and helps build resilient bodies and minds. We know that life can feel busy - it is our goal to provide you with a slice of time during you child's day or week that they regularly get outside.
Being place-based allows us to introduce or reacquaint children and their families with public spaces to enjoy time outside. All of our locations are within walking distance from school. Our team picks up directly from school at dismissal time and we use this walk as a transition time.
All of our programs are entirely outside. Rain or shine, we venture outdoors and help build resilience and confidence being outdoors in all types of weather. We work with caregivers to make sure each child is prepared with proper clothes, footwear and gear. In severe weather, we may opt for an early pickup or cancellation as a last resort.
Our program schedule follows the Portland Public Schools calendar unless otherwise noted in the program description. In the event of snow days or early dismissal, we also cancel programming. During conference days, we offer Conference Day Camps.
Bigger programs aren't the right fit for every child, so we're committed to keeping these groups small to provide the best opportunity to build new connections and confidence. All of our programs are held in intentionally small groups of 10 children with a 1:5 ratio. The age range of our programs varies from Kindergarten to 4th grade.
Using play and fun as the lens for all development, at any age, provides balance and space for growth - emotionally, socially & creatively. It is our goal to provide a safe space to balance out the structure of the school day with enriching exploration, movement, choices and play in a supportive environment.
We are confident children and their families will love our team of experienced instructors who are committed to meet all children where they are on any given day and support them unconditionally. Flexibility and adaptability are key. All of our instructors are avid outdoor lovers who facilitate daily opportunities to learn and connect.
