Forest School Lab

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

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 during 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 part of the experience, so children may come home smelling like smoke.

Forest School Eligibility Requirements

Forest School is an amazing opportunity for children to learn and explore our beautiful outdoors. Please abide by the following eligibility requirements when applying to the Forest School:

Age Requirements

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

One Child Lab per Semester

Children can only participate in one Child Development/Home & 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 the demand of the Forest School, children are eligible for only one semester of Forest School Lab. Children who have already completed two semesters of preschool lab in the Clarke building are still eligible for 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 growing their independence. Children should be comfortable separating from parents, managing 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 every child can fully participate 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.