instinctively drawn to nature

Over the past couple of years, several lay leaders and many members of the congregation have been raising funds for and developing a folk-based nature school and day-care program for children ages 3 to 5 on the church campus. Final preparations are now underway to open the school. This program, based on the Scandinavian forest school  concept, has been developed to embody the Grundtvigian philosophy about the importance of the natural world. We see it as a way to further serve the needs of families in our area.

We are guided by the idea that children learn with enthusiasm and a sense of wonder when they spend ample time in nature. Play, imagination, and choice are recognized as vital to children’s learning and development. While fostering whole-child development and nature connections, our Woodland School prepares young children to succeed in school and in life.

These photos are from a “practice day” held on December 30, 2025.
Children from the community were invited to experience the routine of
a typical day at the Woodland School including a healthy and social breakfast, exploration
of the outdoor Nature Playscape (complete with a newly-installed slide), indoor activities,
lunch, naptime, and more outdoor play time. The day was a success and very helpful
to the school staff as they prepare to welcome students in the near future.