“Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” – Fred Rogers
Backyard Classroom is an outdoor learning program that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and connection through meaningful, hands-on experiences. We believe every child deserves the chance to discover that even the most ordinary spaces hold wonder when explored with care and curiosity. Our programming blends exploration, creativity, movement, and play—often incorporating science, art, and other subjects—to spark children’s natural desire to learn.
We serve families seeking an alternative to traditional indoor education, offering experiences that encourage children to look closer, dig deeper, and build confidence in their abilities. Through child-led discovery and joyful engagement with the world around them, participants form friendships, develop resilience, and cultivate a lifelong love of learning.
Backyard Classroom is for children who thrive when given the freedom to explore at their own pace—and for families who value community, connection, and learning that extends beyond four walls.
Backyard Classroom nurtures curiosity, creativity, and connection through outdoor learning. By looking closer and digging deeper, children discover that even ordinary places hold wonder. Through exploration, creativity, movement, and play, they build friendships, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning—finding life's greatest lessons right where they are.
Our vision is a world where children grow up seeing every space as a classroom and every moment as an opportunity to learn. By fostering curiosity, confidence, and a sense of wonder, Backyard Classroom inspires lifelong learners who carry creativity, resilience, and a deep connection to their communities wherever they go.
“They’re not just playing in nature, they are: Learning, creating, sensing, believing, relaxing, exploring, observing, wondering, connecting, discovering, appreciating, understanding, experimenting…” – Penny Whitehouse