Our Day
SPROUTS
Farm and Forest Kindergarten
SPROUTS is a nature-immersive, farm and forest-based early childhood learning program for children 3 through 6 years old on Tangerini's Spring Street Farm, 139 Spring St, Millis, MA. Sprouts is the first early childhood program of its kind to be licensed in the state of Massachusetts.
Our program philosophy is inspired by aspects of Lifeways, Waldorf and Reggio Emilia philosophies, and is modeled after Waldkindergartens (Forest Kindergartens) in Germany, where teachers and children are outdoors in all types of weather throughout the year. This educational approach has existed since the late 1950's, mainly in Europe, and is becoming more popular in the US and other countries around the world. In these programs children spend half to a full day outdoors in local woodlands and green spaces, immersed in nature.
A DAY AT SPROUTS
Morning Arrival
Children arrive and engage in free play and exploration of the farm. They may help with morning farm chores, check on animals, or explore the natural surroundings.
Morning Circle
We gather to greet each other, sing seasonal songs, and discuss the day's activities and observations. This helps children connect with the rhythm of the day and the seasons.
Forest Exploration
Children spend time in the woodland areas, engaging in unstructured play, building with natural materials, and developing a deep connection to the forest environment in all weather conditions.
Farm Activities
Depending on the season, children participate in planting, harvesting, animal care, and other authentic farm tasks that connect them to food sources and agricultural cycles.
Lunch & Rest
We gather to share a meal, often incorporating food from the farm. After lunch, children have a quiet rest period, which may take place outdoors in a sheltered area during favorable weather.
Afternoon Activities
The afternoon includes more child-led exploration, nature crafts, storytelling, and seasonal projects that emerge from children's interests and the natural environment.
Closing Circle
We end our day with reflection, gratitude, and preparation for the next day's adventures before children depart.
*Our daily rhythm follows the natural flow of the seasons and responds to weather, children's interests, and farm activities.
EDUCATIONAL APPROACH
Waldorf Inspiration
From Waldorf education, we embrace the importance of rhythm, natural materials, imaginative play, and connection to seasonal cycles. We value the development of the whole child—head, heart, and hands.
Reggio Emilia Elements
We incorporate the Reggio view of children as capable, curious researchers and the environment as the "third teacher." Documentation and project work emerge from children's interests and questions.
Forest Kindergarten Model
Following the European Waldkindergarten tradition, we believe in the value of daily outdoor immersion in all weather conditions. This builds resilience, supports physical development, and fosters a deep connection to the natural world.
Farm-Based Learning
Our unique setting at Tangerini's Spring Street Farm allows children to participate in meaningful agricultural work, care for animals, and understand food systems through direct experience.
Visit Sprouts
Experience our unique farm and forest kindergarten program at Tangerini's Spring Street Farm. Schedule a tour to see how children thrive in our nature-immersive environment.
SCHEDULE A TOUR