Nature-Based Learning in Central Massachusetts

Nature-based learning isn’t a new way. It’s the old way.

In fact, learning outdoors in nature has been the norm throughout most of human history. Many parents intuitively know that being immersed in nature is good for children. But now we have plenty of research to support the profound advantages of learning outdoors.

The benefits are undeniable.

Nature can help a student feel more attentive, self-disciplined, and less stressed. Research demonstrates that learning outdoors increases student’s motivation, interest, and level of physical activity. Additionally, nature has been shown to provide a calmer, quieter, safer, warmer, and more cooperative setting for learning.

Below is a list and description of some of the outdoor nature-based learning centers in Central Massachusetts:

See any nature-based learning centers that we missed? Let us know!

Wildwood Learning Center (Hopkinton, MA)

Located on the grounds of The Hopkinton Family Outdoor Center. Wildwood is an alternative to traditional early education. This micro-school offers children ages 3-8 freedom in work and play, access to their natural surroundings, and an environment that fosters curiosity in learning, a love for nature, and a supportive community. They have options for 2, 3, or 5 full or half days with early drop-off beginning at 8am and late pick-up available at 4pm for an additional cost.

Fitzgerald Community School (Northborough, MA)

At the Fitzgerald Community School, they believe that all children are perfectly designed. Each one has a unique temperament, learning style, passions, talents, and more. They ensure that each learner thrives through their personalized agendas – “instead of a cookie-cutter approach”. FCS offers PreK through 6th grade education as well as summer camp for ages 4-10. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.

Forest Friends, (Bright Beginning Center, Hopedale, MA)

Forest Friends is located on the BBC playground. Students split their time between the outdoor classroom space and the beautiful natural setting of the Hopedale Parklands. BBC is one of the first public school districts in Massachusetts to introduce this model to a preschool program. Forest Friends offers half and full-day options for preschool and PreK children ages 2.9 through 4+.

Touchstone Community School (Grafton, MA)

Touchstone Community School offers a comprehensive early childhood, elementary, and middle school education for children ages 2.9 through 15 years old. Extended Early Morning Care Program is available from 7:30 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. on regular school days, and an Extended After Care Program is also available from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Their mission is to cultivate a joyful learning community. One that is “committed to creating a more innovative, just, and sustainable world”. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. 

Turn Back Time (Paxton, MA)

Turn Back Time (TBT) is a non-profit nature-based education center located on 58 acres in Paxton, Massachusetts. Children can be enrolled in their drop-off preschool, homeschool, after-school enrichment, or summer camp programming. Adult programming is expanding to include workshops and wellness gatherings, and together, families have several options to explore the grounds while connecting with the local community, including Family Farm Time and Family Picnic events. Students can enroll in 1, 2, 3, or 4-day options from 9:00 AM-1:00 PM.

Boston Outdoor Preschool Network (Sudbury, MA)

BOPN’s approach to education emphasizes child-directed learning, authentic experiences, making connections to previous experiences, and culturally appropriate practice. Programs are available for children ages 15 months through 6 years old. “Through play, engaging with nature, and exploring carefully curated materials, children develop habits of mind that foster social-emotional well-being and school readiness.” Income-based financial aid is available for families who need it.

Good Pickin’ Farm (Westford, MA)

Good Pickin’ Farms offers several different programs, including Acres of Fun, a nature-based preschool for children 2.9-5 years old. Then there is The School House, an elementary one-room schoolhouse microschool for children ages 5-13 years old. “The focus of their educational community is to encourage a love of learning, exploration, and adventure. A large amount of the day is spent outside in nature and among farm animals.” They also offer after-school activities with a focus on animal care for grades kindergarten through 8th grade. Additionally, they have a Farm to Forest Homeschool Program where homeschoolers ages 5-14 may attend 1-4 days a week.

Broad Meadow Brook, (Worcester, MA)

While not a school itself, Mass Audubon offers field trip programs for schools at the sanctuary, in-school programs led by a Mass Audubon teacher naturalist, and hybrid programs that incorporate both an in-class and in-the-field experience. With a large variety of different school programs, ranging from Animal Skulls to the Science of Trees and more, there is something for everyone from PreK through 12th grade.