Outdoor Classrooms
Barefoot Kids
Endless Possibilities

Imagine

a life where your kids are confident, happy, & healthy from spending more time outside.


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where they look at trees instead of screens & they gain an understanding of our worldly rhythms.

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a place where kids of all ages can be themselves & gather to learn & encourage each other without the pressure of schedules & tests!


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What is Barefoot University?


Our communities meet each week for forest school activities and nature exploration that align with our yearly Rhythm.  Our weekly activities teach nature-based sciences and outdoor skills. Our focus may be nature, but activities expand to cover art, citizenship, local history, math, science, life skills, physical education, critical thinking, and more!  Our communities also do field trips and community service projects throughout the year that often align with our activity themes.

Leaders help facilitate the meet-ups, but parents are their child‘s teachers!  It’s important for parents to know what the activity is beforehand in case your children need additional instructions or you want to take the activity deeper.

If you’re looking for a group that makes everyone sit in a circle and learn a lesson, BU may not be for you. We encourage participation, but we also encourage free play and exploration!


Barefooter of the Month

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Lilah
Virginia Beach, VA

Lilah is always willing to help our younger Barefooters in anyway she can. She does so in a particularly joyful manner and never seems to see the younger ones (whether Barefooter or younger siblings) as an annoyance. She has a very helpful spirit and is a great example for all. She isn't afraid to connect with nature and encourage others to do so. She encourages the others to do so and is a natural-born leader. We are thankful to have her in our group.

Nominations should be based on exceptional forest school skills; a special contribution to your BU or local community; exemplifying the core values of BU; being a good friend; outstanding attitude or attendance. Members, leaders, and parents are eligible.