About

Sprouts Nature School

Sprouts Nature School is a holistic, experiential outdoor education program for children in Madison, WI that teaches practical skills, as well as social and emotional learning, and connection to nature, in fun and creative ways.

Activities

Clubs and camps include a variety of nature-based, experiential activities. The goal is child-centered, flexible and creative learning based on practical skill building, connection to nature and being in the present moment.

Cooking

Knowing how to prepare food is an essential and often overlooked skill. Alternating between sweet and savory options, we will use local, organic, fresh, whole foods. Once the garden starts providing produce we will utilize that as much as possible. We will be cooking outdoors using both fire and camping stoves.

Gardening

Gardening is both a useful and meaningful activity. It has been proven to reduce anxiety and improve mood, focus and concentration. Direct connection to the food we eat develops awareness of interactions between humans and the environment. We will be gardening in a plot at Marlborough Gardens.

Exploration

This topic covers a broad range of activities, from hiking, to bug catching, pond dipping to shelter building. Exploration is a way to get a bit outside our comfort zone and get curious about the natural world.

Nature Art

Using natural materials such as pressed flowers and leaves, clay, wax, and plant dyes develops a deeper appreciation for nature and fosters creativity and mindfulness.

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About Ilsa

Environmental Educator

Ilsa (she/her) is a caring and passionate educator with a love for environmental education, experiential and social emotional learning.

Ilsa’s interest in gardening, cooking and nature-based learning began early on in her education, during her time at holistic, progressive schools in New Zealand.

Ilsa brings her lifelong love of the outdoors and passion for healthy living and practical skills to her program in fun and endlessly creative ways for the kids.