What ages do you serve?

Our Tinkergarten classes utilize the Tinkergarten way of learning, and the curriculum is designed to engage children 1.5 - 8 years old in a mixed-age play setting. Nature Babies class curriculum is designed to support the development of babies ages 6 months to 18 months. If you have children in both age ranges, we recommend enrolling in the Tinkergarten class (siblings under 18 months join for free).

How long do classes last? What happens during a class?

Tinkergarten classes are 1 hour long and include an opening circle (~15 min) with sharing, singing, movement, and learning; play time (~40 min) with an engaging play invitation followed by child-led and guided-play; and a closing circle (~5 min) with gratitude and more! Note: it is always important to follow a child’s lead and we love for children to explore their own interests and experience the play and class environment in their own way and their own terms. There is no wrong way to play at Tinkergarten!

Babies classes follow a similar structure, with more time dedicated at the start for parent/caregiver connections and tips.

Can siblings come for free?

Tinkergarten classes - Siblings under 18 months of age may join at no cost. Children over the age of 18 months should enroll in the class, and a 25% sibling discount (off full price) is automatically applied at checkout.

If a sibling needs to attend due to scheduling change (eg. day off at school), they can attend up to two complimentary sessions without enrolling. Families are asked to notify the teacher if an extra child needs to attend for a session so they can prepare any necessary materials.

Babies classes - due to the structure and nature of these classes, we kindly ask that siblings over the age of 18 months not attend. If you have children in both age ranges, we would ask that you attend the traditional Tinkergarten class (and baby can attend free of charge).

Can families try a class for free before enrolling in the program?

If space allows, families are invited to attend a free trial class, pop-up play date, or one session of the season for free to try Tinkergarten. Visit weplaynaturekids.mailchimpsites.com/freetrial to view complimentary class options.

Are refunds offered?

If a refund is requested BEFORE the season of classes begins, families can receive a full refund (minus 10% processing fee) or full credit towards a future class.

If a refund is requested AFTER the season of classes begins but before the third class, families can receive a refund for the value of the remaining sessions (minus 10% processing fee). After the third class, refunds will no longer be given, but you can receive pro-rated credit for future seasons/classes.

Are credits or refunds offered for missed sessions?

Credits and refunds not offered for classes missed by families. We are pleased to be able to offer make-up sessions for up to 2 missed classes per season. In the event of a missed class, please contact weplaynaturekids@gmail.com to schedule a make up session.

What happens in inclement weather?

Class will be held rain or shine; however, we do acknowledge that some weather is unsafe for play. Decisions about whether it is safe to hold class are determined by the Teacher using local weather guidance.

The teacher will update families at least 90 minutes prior to class by email and/or text message.

Whenever possible, the session will be rescheduled to the end of the season or at another time at the discretion of the Teacher.

How do teachers foster a safe learning environment during class?

Each explorer (child) is accompanied by a guide (parent or caregiver). Teachers support guides and do all that they reasonably can to provide a learning environment that allows for safe risk-taking.

Teachers bring a First Aid Kit to class, which can be utilized by guides (attending adults) if needed.

A few, simple rules help to address most situations:

Explorers (children) can explore on their own as long as they can still see or hear their guide or the Teacher.

If explorers are taking physical risks, we check in to make sure that they feel sturdy and safe in their risk-taking.

Teachers encourage children to engage in risky play, but give clear redirection if or when safety and the safety of friends in the class could be compromised. For example, we celebrate that sticks are the #1 toy of all time, but we make sure that our sticks have plenty of space so they do not touch our friends' bodies. Ultimately, over time, we want to help children learn how to learn their limits while still playing in a way that keeps them and their friends out of true harm.

We encourage children not to put nature treasures in their mouths. If a wee one is doing so as a natural part of exploring the world, we work with their guide to try to honor that need in the safest way possible.