WELCOME TO ALIGNED WITH NATURE PROGRAM
Aligned with Nature is a WHOLE-istic learning experience. Reading, journaling, art, sound, science, ancient history, public speaking, vocabulary, poetry recitation, storytelling, yoga, mindfulness and observation are all the tools we use to explore our lessons.
These subjects are functionally integrated into our activities rather than taught compartmentally as is common in conventional education.
The lessons are designed to spark curiosity, nurture self-confidence and to delve into the connection between the environments within us and outside of us through an in-depth exploration of the four main elements; Earth, Water, Air and Fire.
Lesson Plan Activities
Lesson plans help explore each element through six standard groups of activities:
1. Gifts from the Elements : Sensory connection and beauty.
2. Language of the Elements : Feelings and expressions.
3. Feel the Elements through Yoga: Physical connection-feeling the elements in the body.
4. Explore the Elements and Build Knowledge: Experiential activities, observations, evaluation of observed facts, the power of the element, journaling.
5. Guided Relaxations and Storytelling: Reinforcement and integration.
When young people use these methods, they gain greater appreciation of their own bodies, and their relationship to self and others.
Each class is limited to 12 students. With a 6:1 child/ mentor ratio.
MATERIALS NEEDED:
A Nature journal and a Yoga Mat
Each student should bring a lunch box and a water bottle that they can open and close independently. Please make sure your child wears weather appropriate clothing and shorts under skirts/dresses.
Fall 2024/25 Semester Details:
Begins: September 09, 2024 to January 13, 2025
Ages: 5-12
Mondays from 9:30am to 2pm (Huntington Beach/ Seal Beach Area)
Wednesdays from 9:30 to 2pm (South Irvine Area)
Locations: Different Natural Parks/Beaches around above areas. Locations will be provided upon registration.
This is a drop-off program. Parents are welcomed to stay.
" When we decided to start on a new educational path for our seven-year-old son, we knew we wanted to incorporate learning through nature and being outside. I found numerous programs to choose from and after doing some research and asking questions, we chose Monica's Aligned with Nature program.
This program has been a highlight of our son's journey this school year. He has made wonderful friendships with other kids in the class, and he has gained valuable life skills through the education Monica and Zoe provide. We belong to a charter and have been able to use journal entries, science experiments, and crafts as "work samples" on a monthly basis - something that is important and valuable. Our son has also learned how to meditate, do yoga and express his feelings - all of which have aided in his social and mental development.
For our family, this type of education and experience is vital and joyful. We are so happy to have found Aligned with Nature and look forward to continuing our journey with them for years to come" - Jaime S