Saplings Forest and Farm

 

Saplings Forest and Farm
Nature Studies Program for 5 to 8 year olds

 

We are delighted to offer a nature immersion program for the younger naturalist!

Our experienced and caring staff create an inviting space for children to explore the wonders of nature. Each class is designed to facilitate positive social interactions while children participate in adventure and play in the forest and fields of Natembea Farm. Our "core routines" give a comforting rhythm to each day, but we also provide ample opportunity for students to make their own discoveries and empower them to connect deeply with the natural world.

 

The Saplings program is founded on the belief that nature is our greatest teacher and includes:

  • Storytelling

  • Singing

  • Movement (yoga, etc.)

  • Art experiences

  • Nature walks

  • Nature journaling

  • Naturalist practices/Core routines (Fox walk, Owl eyes, Deer ears, etc.)

  • Whole Body Nature Games and Challenges

  • Wilderness Skills

  • Nature and Sensory awareness experiences

  • Activities that support knowledge of native plants, animals, etc.

  • Community building

  • Support for deep care and stewarding of our earth

 

Program Details

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:00am-2:00pm
(Enroll in one or both days)

Fall Session: September 2-December 18, 2025
(Note: There will be no class on Nov 25 and 27)

Location:
Natambea Farm
(2 miles from downtown Port Townsend)

Ages:
5 to 8

Instructors:
Michelle Fox
Melissa Kyle

Tuition:
One day-$1,125
Both days-$2,250

Supply Fee:
$75 if enrolled in one day
$125 if enrolled in both days

Maximum class size: 12

2025-2026 Youth Program Calendar

 
 
 

OPEN HOUSE
Join us in June (date and time TBD) to meet the teachers and learn more about the program!

Email Michelle if you’d like to attend: michelle@cedarrootschool.org

 
 
 
 
 

Meet the Instructors

Michelle Fox's heartwork has been with children since she was in college, culminating in the recent completion of four decades as an educator. After obtaining a B.A. in Psychology and a B.A. in Spanish at the University of California at Davis, she earned an Elementary School Teaching Credential from the Multi-cultural/Bilingual Program at Sacramento State University. She has had teaching experiences in bilingual (Spanish/English) Elementary classrooms, Spanish immersion Kindergarten, Pre-school, and Elementary school Art.

From 2013-2023, Michelle mentored children at a non-profit nature awareness organization she founded and directed in SW Washington (TreeSong). She recently felt the call to move to the Olympic Peninsula and is thrilled to have found CedarRoot and continue her work supporting people of all ages in connecting with the natural world. In addition to being the lead instructor for the Sapling program, she is CedarRoot's Program Director.

 

Melissa Kyle grew up on the Gulf Coast of Texas, crisscrossed the country for a BFA in New York, an early film and TV career in California, then back again to Texas for a MS in Early Childhood Education, before recently relocating to Washington. 

After leaving formal classroom teaching for Texas Master Naturalist training and the naturalist life outside during the COVID pandemic, Melissa discovered her own enthusiasm for fostering a love of nature in children.

With a deep respect for the environment and cultural history of the lands we inhabit, Melissa creates immersive learning experiences that connect children with their world through sensory exploration and play. Her approach emphasizes the importance of unstructured outdoor time, allowing children to learn by exploring at their own pace while building resilience and confidence. She believes that nature is the best classroom, where children naturally develop critical thinking skills, creativity, and a sense of stewardship for their community.