Just two Mother/Daughter duos who have a passion for education, children, the outdoors, and educating children in the outdoors. The four of us have been employed together, led various trips and camp-outs together, and most importantly, have been best friends together for 16 years. Our Model
Our program is based off the idea illustrated by Julia Hotz in her book āThe Connection Cureā, which explains how the 5 key elements to overall health are Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and Belonging. Each one of our camp days has a section of time dedicated to fulfilling each of these needs that require an individual to thrive in their environment. These all come natural to children, and getting them to stop moving is what can be seen as the real challenge. Free play and exploration are encouraged at our camp, but in addition to what comes naturally, our team will lead daily stretches, games, and strolls through the forest. Nature
A breath never tastes as sweet and fresh as it does in the woods or on a mountain. Our campus is located on 20 acres that is nestled against vast National Forest land. This provides us with the privilege of being immersed in the woods with various flora and fauna, and wildlife visitors (mostly the cute, fuzzy, less-dangerous kind). Art
The act of creating is clinically proven to reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of inattention. Every camp day has a block reserved for an artistic project tailored to each age group that focuses on our theme for the week. Basic art supplies will be available for use at ANY time outside of the structured activity, to promote free expression. Service
We have a deep dedication to the land we recreate on, and to each other. As stewards of the land, our team may have an organized trash pick-up as our service of the day. For a public service, designing cards to be delivered to the residents of our local nursing home might be in our āServiceā block for the day. Belonging
Humans are hardwired to connect with others. Everyone craves the feeling of being seen and understood, and at Dirt Days we vow to meet each young human where they are at. As an all-inclusive space, we hope to create and foster connection that lasts far beyond our campsite. We are a community, and all are welcome to a chair in our circle.
