What is a typical day at Project W.I.L.D.?

Each day begins with a short hike to our outdoor classroom, a space designed by the teens. Our property is 75 acres of woods, full of satisfying hands-on learning. We discuss our plans for the day, talk to each individual about how their project is going and what resources they’ll be using that day, spend a short time on our Braiding Sweetgrass group study, and share any relevant safety information (weather, land changes) before breaking off to allow the teens to get to it! Some teens may not be interested in starting a project right away, and that’s okay! If your teen wants to join just for socializing and relaxing, they are still very welcome to join. There is no wrong way to participate in this class. If your teen likes taking direction, Project W.I.L.D. can offer activities such as picking apples and blueberries seasonally, exploring the woods, pond, and creek, watching the local beavers work on their dam, helping tend the garden and care for chickens, and working on their indoor club house space of their very own. Parents/caregivers/guardians are encouraged to drop-off their teen, allowing them to get the most out of this class.

Tell me more about Project Based Learning and how it works with high schoolers.

Project Based Learning (PBL) is a way for self-directed learners to delve into a deep interest, asking questions and seeking answers along the way until their curiosity is satisfied, typically culminating in a tangible project. You may have heard about PBL in the elementary years, as it’s a great way to get children excited about learning. In high school, PBL goes next level! Teenagers have the capacity to explore even more in depth, find more rabbit holes to go down, and can ask and find answers to their own questions. Through their work, they will develop a sense of mastery, peace, and community.

What is an example of a project my teen might choose?

If your teen is interested in using tools, they may choose to create something they see a need for, for example a wagon. We’ll ask if they would like any guidance or support as they research or read more about building a wagon, sourcing books and suggesting websites that may be helpful. Once the learner has an idea of how they would like their wagon to function and drawn up plans, they’ll go over them with an experienced builder and make any adjustments. Next comes planning for materials, supplies, and tools. When all those have been sourced, the learner will begin building (either with guidance or without, their choice) using their approved safety-level tools, working at their own pace. After their wagon is complete, the project is complete! Or it’s not… if the learner isn’t happy with their build or has a different idea of how to improve something, the cycle repeats until your teen feels satisfied with their work and end result. Some learners may work on 1-2 projects per session, others may choose one long project that takes the entire school year, or even longer!

What kind of volunteers will be available? Can I volunteer?

We invite volunteers that we already have a relationship with, including retired teachers, experts in their field, and local business owners. Our volunteers have worked in science, ecology, home building and home renovation, plumbing, electricity, and more. Occasionally, we may set up Zoom meetings with our volunteers as they are busy and in most cases still working in their field. We always welcome new volunteers, please speak with us directly if you are interested in lending your expertise to The Moss House.

What if my child has learning disabilities or delays?

The Moss House welcomes neurodivergent learners with open arms! In fact, research suggests extended time in nature such as attending a Forest School program, can help reduce the severity of attention deficit symptoms by relieving attention fatigue, help improve sensory integration, and other concepts beneficial to children with ADHD, autism, and other neurodiversities. (People have written extensively on this topic, here’s a study many people find helpful: https://positivepsychology.com/attention-restoration-theory/). While we are not special education teachers, each leader of The Moss House has nearly 15 years of experience working with and supporting neurodivergent learners. If you’d like to have a more detailed discussion about how The Moss House can support your family, please reach out to us via email at mosshouseny@gmail.com.

What are your rates?

Class can be paid for weekly or by the session. Session payments will receive a 10% discount.

Weekly rate: $35

Session rate: $189/ 6 weeks

A sibling discount can also be applied to any siblings enrolled at The Moss House, regardless of which program they are enrolled in. Each sibling receives a 10% discount.