Preschools in forests take root in the US
VASHON ISLAND, Wash.—When they're outside, the children in Erin Kenny's class don't head for cover if it rains or snows. They stay right where they are -- in a private five-acre forest. It's their classroom.
The unique "forest kindergarten" at Cedarsong Nature School is among several that have opened in recent years in the U.S., part of movement that originated in Europe to get kids out from in front of televisions and into the natural world.
"American children do not spend much time outdoors anymore," Kenny says. "There's a growing need and an awareness on parents' part that their children really need to do more connecting with nature."
In addition to Kenny's, at least two other schools have been established: one in Portland, Ore., and another in Carbondale, Colo.
Kenny opened Cedarsong's doors in 2008, starting out with five children. She plans to expand the school to five days a week next year. She charges $100 a day, whether it's one day a week or three. Kenny says there's a growing waiting list.
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