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About Us
Dedicated Educators
Our educators are dedicated to helping children to thrive! We are passionate about providing children with opportunities to connect with the natural world. Our goal is to show every child the extraordinary gifts that Mother Nature has to offer!
Nature-Based Curriculum
At Flatwoods Forest School we believe that time spent in nature is invaluable to children. In our current fast-paced world, not enough time is spent in the natural world. Children need this time and that is why our curriculum is based in nature and created from nature. We have seen the benefits of Nature-Based Education and we are delighted to bring these to North Florida families!
Our Mission
At Flatwoods Forest School we believe that children thrive best in a natural environment with teachers that engage and excite. We facilitate education with values of preservation and mindful discovery alongside families that recognize the importance of exploring, caring and protecting Mother Earth.
Our Staff
Kim Clauson
BS in Art Education - FSU
AMS Montessori Primary Intern
Ages 3-6
3 1/2 years Montessori classroom experience
Missy Clauson
Certified FL Master Naturalist
BA in Sociology/Anthropology Flagler College
Florida Park Service Ranger from 2010-2016
Elle Keathley
BA in Liberal Studies from Simpson University
K-6 Teacher Certification
AMS Certified Montessori Teacher Ages 6-9
Michele Pellicer
BA in Business- Hospitality FSU
St. Augustine local raising her child in Florida's natural environment
Reference Page
We love learning about natural parenting and nature-based education! Here are some of our favorite resources.
Richard Louv: The Last Child in the Woods
This is a fabulous book about the importance of time spent in nature for children. It also highlights the current decline of nature interaction in childhood.
Rachel Carson: A Sense of Wonder
The Sense of Wonder is a refreshing antidote to indifference and a guide to capturing the simple power of discovery that Carson views as essential to life.
Kelly Johnson: Wings Worms and Wonder
Kelly Johnson's book is a practical guide for how to assist children in forming a connection with gardening and the natural world.
Maria Montessori: The Secret of Childhood
A wonderful explanation of the uniqueness of children by Italy's first woman medical doctor.
The Perks of a Play-in-the-Mud Educational Philosophy
This is an excellent article about the benefits of nature-based schooling.