Supporting kids to connect with nature, each other and themselves…
…through outdoor play, scientific inquiry, and the lively arts.
To give you an idea…
Full Circle Forest School is a nature-based mentoring program for children age 6-12 that meets weekly in all types of weather to play, explore and connect. We operate year-round in four 10-week seasons. Each season includes a celebration to share the forest magic with families, and grow our sense of community.
Rooted in a child-led philosophy, our days are shaped by curiosity, creativity, and discovery. Whether building shelters, painting with mud, telling stories, or listening to the wind rustle through the leaves, we follow the natural rhythms of the land and those who walk it.
Our approach is inspired by developmental theory and play work principles, to support holistic growth through hands-on experiences in nature, cooperative games, and open-ended guidance with tools and natural materials.
We offer a gentle daily rhythm that honors a slower pace—one that holds space for reflection, wonder, and meaningful connection.
Through storytelling, acting, puppetry, singing, and seasonal celebrations, we strengthen a sense of belonging, cultural understanding, and deepen relationships.
At the heart of our ethos is a deep reverence and care for all beings.
Come rain or shine, we gather to nurture resilience, joy, and freedom in the wild.
Meet your nature mentors
Laura Lee Jones has enjoyed working alongside children in Nature Connection Mentoring for the past six years, with a background in the visual arts, and music. Her mentoring style is deeply inspired by Jon Young’s Coyote Mentoring, and the non-violent communication and convergent facilitation work of Miki Kashtan.
Laura is a mom, step-mom, and dog-mom to an 8 year old human, an 18 year old human, and 2 year old therapy dog. She also co-guides adult courses in compassionate communication. She is trained and certified in Wilderness First Aid and CPR, and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts, and a Forest School Level 3 certification from the Forest School Association, UK.
Emily DiPaola has her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, and is a licensed massage therapist. Working within traditional and non-traditional educational realms for ten years, she has experience in Montessori Education, Special Education, after-school programs, and tutoring. Mentoring teens at nature-based Rite of Passage retreats, being a guide for canoe and hiking trips in the Adirondacks, and leading bicycle clubs for kids have been some of her favorite work. She is a student of non-violent communication, and cares deeply about authentic connection between people and the natural world. Emily is trained and certified in Wilderness First Aid and CPR.
Do you want to learn more?
Send us a message if you have a question, or if you would like to apply for the upcoming season.
Would you love to contribute to our vision to serve under-resourced families?
Donations directly support our scholarship fund.
