At Nature Connect, we honor each child’s unique developmental needs. Our enrollment process is designed to place children in the classes where they will feel confident, supported, and excited to learn. Please note that class placement takes into account several factors, including the student's age, developmental readiness, family goals, and the distribution of students who enroll for the year. Nature Connect reserves the right to adjust student placements after the enrollment period ends based on these criteria. Please review the readiness questions and enrollment options for the upcoming school year below. Is your child ready for Nature Connect? Your child is likely ready for Nature Connect classes when you answer “yes” to all questions! Is your child able to regularly communicate their needs to others? Given the nature of our program, it is imperative that children can communicate when they need anything: bathroom use, thirst, hunger, pain, etc. We continually remind children to address those needs. For example, if we are on an adventure and a child needs to use the restroom, they need to be able to share that with us. We can then get them to a location where they can go in a timely manner. Can your child use the restroom with minimal to no assistance? Your child should be able to perform the actions necessary for using the restroom (i.e., manipulating clothing, wiping, etc.). If a child needs assistance, they need to be able to ask for help. It is necessary that children are fully potty-trained and proficient in toileting. No diapers or pull-ups allowed. Can your child change their clothes mostly independently? We are constantly working with children to encourage independence and develop self-help skills. Your child should be able to change their clothes, be willing to try, and ask for help if they have difficulty. Can your child follow directions? In our program, children must follow directions from our teachers to keep them safe. Your child will be required to stay with the group and follow the instructions.