Saplings Forest and Farm

 
 
 
 

Saplings Forest and Farm
Nature Studies Program for 5 to 8 year olds
(and developmentally ready 4-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 (such as yoga)

  • Art experiences

  • Nature walks

  • Nature journaling

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

  • Whole body nature games and challenges

  • Wilderness skills

  • Nature and sensory awareness experiences

  • Activities that support knowledge of native species (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
Note: Although this program is intended for ages 5 to 8, we are open to developmentally ready 4-year-olds who thrive in small group environments and outdoor learning. Please contact us to explore whether this program is a good fit for your child. michelle@cedarrootschool.org

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

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Meet the Instructors

Michelle Fox has spent over four decades inspiring and learning alongside children, with the past 15 years devoted to nature education. With an Elementary Teaching Credential and a passion for creative, immersive learning, she’s brought joy and connection into bilingual classrooms, Spanish immersion, preschool, and art, always rooted in curiosity and a deep love for the natural world. She founded TreeSong, a nature education nonprofit in SW Washington, and spent ten years there as director and lead youth instructor.

Now settled on the Olympic Peninsula, Michelle is thrilled to be CedarRoot’s Program Director and lead instructor for Saplings, continuing her heartwork of guiding people of all ages into deeper connection with the natural world.

 

Melissa Kyle brings a wealth of life experience to her work with children. Raised on the Gulf Coast of Texas, she began her career in film and TV in New York and California before discovering her true calling in nature education. During the pandemic, she completed her Texas Master Naturalist training, which deepened her passion for guiding young people into a meaningful connection with the natural world.

Melissa designs immersive, play-based experiences that connect children to nature and place, honoring the land’s environment and cultural history. She believes that the outdoors provides the best classroom—where children grow at their own pace, build confidence, and develop creativity, critical thinking, and stewardship.