Nature in the heart of Brooklyn
Since 2014, Brooklyn Nature Days has offered forest school classes for children in Prospect Park. Sunshine, raindrops, trees, plants, and animals all provide opportunities for the kids to lead the way — playing, learning, creating, exploring, and discovering outside.
Our Philosophy
Nature provides an expansive outdoor classroom that inspires and excites kids to move, create, explore, discover, question, and engage with each other. Fresh air, open spaces, the quiet and calm pace, and a landscape of trees, plants, and living creatures offers a freedom and wonder that is unmatched, especially in the heart of a city. Exploring outside is safe and builds confidence, independence, and competence.
But What Are They Learning?
The benefits of time spent in nature are proven to have a strong & positive influence over emotional well being, physical & cognitive growth, & social connection. We want to instill the idea that we are all part of something bigger and no matter our age, we can actively participate in taking care of each other and the world around us. Check out our photo logs and follow us on instagram to see what we’ve been up to in the park!
Summer in the City 🌻
Enrollment is open!
Our philosophy focuses on unstructured free play & exploration, as well as open-ended use of tools & materials. Our low teacher-to-child ratio allows for adults to support small group, child-led projects and adventures.
After School Classes are Back! 🌳
Enrollment is open!
Our after school classes allow children the freedom to actively learn while regularly immersing themselves with nature in the heart of Brooklyn. Using the seasons, plants, and animals as inspiration, and provided with simple tools and found and recycled materials, children are invited to lead the way: hiking, climbing, creating, singing, digging, painting, playing, and working together while connecting with nature. In the true spirit of forest school, we embrace the weather and meet year round in the sun, rain, and snow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Using the seasons, plants, and animals as inspiration, and provided with simple tools, the kids are invited to lead the way climbing, creating, digging, and connecting with nature. We offer a small group size and a low student to teacher ratio, allowing us to move through the park with ease and ensuring all the children are safe and heard as we explore. We encourage you to check out our FAQ for a list of answers to common questions and to get a better idea of what our classes are like!
BND Merch is now available!
When you purchase an item from our shop you’re directly contributing to support nature-based programming in Brooklyn.
For information about Wonderforest, our nature focused preschool, please visit wonderforestpreschool.com and sign up for our newsletter!
We have created BK Natur(ed), a non profit fundraising organization, to support our educational programs as they continue to expand, working towards greater levels of accessibility and inclusivity. Click the banner above to learn more and donate today!