Nature-Based Early Childhood Education

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Farm School by the Sea is located on a private, 12-acre farm, nestled among the pines and coastline of Wilmington, North Carolina. Our half-day program combines agricultural literacy with forest school philosophy. This hybrid, outdoor school model enables students to gain experience connecting with nature through play. Farm School by the Sea aims to develop a bond between children and the natural world by providing them with a landscape to play, explore, and use their senses. As role models and guides, our teachers encourage curiosity, ask questions, inspire children through stories, and embody empathy for all living things.

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Our curriculum follows seasonal patterns and includes developmentally appropriate lessons in literacy, STEAM, and social studies. Farm School’s unique location allows students to gain practical, hands-on experience and develop a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of the land and sea. Skilled educators support the development of the whole child by encouraging students to assess risks, explore questions, and practice environmental stewardship within their farm school community.

Interested in Learning More? Contact Us to Schedule a Tour

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Core Values:

• Play-based Education 

• Emergent, Inquiry-based and Student-led Learning 

• Place-based Programming 

• Whole-Child Development – Physical, Socio-Emotional, and Cognitive

• Environmental Sustainability & Stewardship

• Community Building

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General Information

Location:  Seahorse Stables -1280 Hill Valley Walk

Dates:  September 11, 2023 - May 24, 2024

          (see our calendar for holidays & teacher workdays)

Ages:  4-7 (age 4 by September 1st)

          4-9 (extended age option on Fridays)

Times:  9:00am-1:00pm

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2023-24 Enrollment Options & Tuition

1 day - Fridays Only

2 days - Mondays/Wednesdays or Tuesdays/Thursdays

3 days - Mondays/Wednesdays/Fridays or Tuesdays/Thursdays/Fridays

4 days - Mondays through Thursdays

5 days - Mondays through Fridays

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• Children entering program must be age 4 by September 1, 2023.

• Application fees are due at the time of registration and are non-refundable.

• Application fees are waived for currently enrolled families re-enrolling for the new year.

• Enrollment fees hold your child's place on our roster and are non-refundable.

• Supplies fees are due August 1, 2023.

• Families enrolling multiple children receive a sibling discount of $150 each year.

• Yearly cost must be paid in full on or before August 1, 2023.

• Monthly cost is invoiced for 10 months beginning August 1, 2023, ending May 1, 2023.

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