Forest School Lab

Children enrolled in the Forest School Lab must be between the ages of 4–5 years old and not yet eligible for kindergarten.

Apply to the Forest School Lab Waitlist

THE FOREST SCHOOL LAB IS ONLY OFFERED DURING THE FALL AND SPRING SEMESTERS

What is the Forest School Child Lab?

Located about 6 miles from the BYU-Idaho campus, the Forest School is held entirely outdoors. The curriculum is flexible and may change based on the children's interests and discoveries throughout the day.

Children will explore nature, which may include encounters with wild animals and insects (with possible stings or bites). The area includes a low-flowing river, and activities will involve playing in mud and getting dirty. Supervised campfires are also part of the experience, so children may come home smelling like smoke.

Forest School Eligibility Requirements

Forest School provides children with an exciting opportunity to learn and explore in the beautiful outdoors. Please review the following eligibility requirements before submitting a Forest School application for your child.

Age Requirements

Children enrolled in the Forest School Lab must be between the ages of 4–5 and not yet eligible for kindergarten. Please do not add your child to the Forest School waiting list until they are at least 3½ years old. Applications submitted before a child is 3½ years old will be deleted.

One Child Lab per Semester

Children may participate in only one Child Development/Home and Family Department lab per semester, meaning either a lab located in the Clarke Building OR the Forest School Lab.

One Semester of Forest School per Child

Due to high demand of the Forest School, children are eligible for only one semester in the Forest School Lab. Children who have already completed two semesters of preschool lab in the Clarke Building are still eligible to participate in one semester of Forest School Lab.

Forest School Readiness Guidelines

To ensure a safe and successful experience for all, we kindly ask that children entering the program meet the following readiness guidelines:

Potty Trained

Children must be fully potty trained, as we are often learning far from restroom facilities.

Independent Learners

We support each child in developing their independence. Children should be comfortable separating from their parents, managing their personal belongings, and navigating outdoor environments with gentle adult guidance.

Respectful Listeners

Listening to and following directions from adults helps ensure safety and a positive learning experience in our natural classroom.

Socially Engaged

Our forest friends thrive through play and connection. Children should show interest in engaging with peers and participating in group activities.

We recognize that each child grows at their own pace. These readiness guidelines are not meant to exclude, but to help ensure that every child can fully participate in and enjoy the forest experience. If you have questions or are unsure whether your child is ready, we’d love to talk with you and explore options together.

Forest School Lab is offered Fall and Spring semesters only.