Forest Harmony: Shinrin-Yoku Forest-Bathing (Japanese Cultural Immersion)
Rooted in the peaceful practice of shinrin-yoku, this Japanese immersion class at San Dieguito Park for Seedlings ages 2.5-4 invites students to slow down and experience nature with all their senses.
Children will learn essential vocabulary through mindful forest walks, nature-based crafts, and explorations of the serene spaces within our preserves. Students will discover cultural traditions connected to respect for the natural world while practicing observation, stillness, and gratitude. This session blends language learning with the restorative benefits of forest bathing to create a calm, grounding experience for all learners.
Families may also choose to extend the experience with an additional six-week classic or Spanish dual language session, or one-week thematic specialty classes, offering even more time for language development, connection, and deep summer learning.
Please Note:
We are always open to adding more sessions. Even if the class is full please add yourself to the waitlist as we may add more classes to the session depending on interest!
Seedling Classes are for students ages 2.5-4.
For older students see our Wildling Classes!
Registration for this schedule starts on 02/02/2026 and ends on 08/13/2026
Participants must be 2 years and 4 months to 4 years old when the program starts.
Seedlings Daily Rhythm
9:10-9:45 | Arrival & Gentle Transitions
Children arrive and are welcomed into the space with calm, familiar routines, connection with teachers, and time to settle in through quiet play and exploration.
9:45–10:15 | Invitation to Play & Exploration
Children engage in open-ended play experiences designed to spark curiosity and imagination. Invitations may include building and construction, creative art, dramatic play, nature-based exploration, simple tool use, and cozy book browsing. Children choose where and how they play, supported by teachers.
10:15–11:00 | Morning Circle & Shared Care Time
We gather together for a snack, shared stories, songs, and conversation. Teachers guide group experiences that support early math and science thinking, language development, and connection to our world. A bathroom break is woven naturally into this time.
11:00–12:15 | Walk-About & Outdoor Discovery
Children explore our surroundings through slow, purposeful walks. We pause often to observe nature, follow interests, collect treasures, move our bodies, and extend learning through sensory and hands-on experiences.
12:15–12:45 | Lunch, Reflection & Restful Transitions
Children enjoy lunch together, followed by shared stories, gentle reflection on the day, and time to rest or reset. A second bathroom break supports comfort and independence.
12:45–1:10 | Pick-Up & Goodbye Rituals
Children reunite with caregivers as we close the day with calm transitions and warm goodbyes.
Please contact The Native School if you have any questions.