a life where your kids are confident, happy, & healthy from spending more time outside.
where they look at trees instead of screens & they gain an understanding of our worldly rhythms.
a place where kids of all ages can be themselves & gather to learn & encourage each other without the pressure of schedules & tests!
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!
This month Barefooter of the month has a rocking twist… Ataraxia was nominated by their leader. She said, "This trio of Barefooters not only loves nature but are musically talented as well. Mason Good (5th year Barefooter), Elijah Bryant (1st year) and Larkin Madayag (1st year) may not have met at Barefoot, but together, the trio enjoy their Wednesdays at the park and their weekends rocking out on stage as Richmond’s newest progressive rock and metal band, Ataraxia. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram to hear their amazing sound!
Bass player Mason is an amazing kid who is kind and patient with the little children, a friend to all, and quick to offer a helping hand.
Guitarist Larkin, the lone female member, is quiet but has a big heart and is a natural leader with her little siblings. Drummer Elijah is well mannered and loves walking with his band mates in nature. I am honored to know and lead this trio, and I wouldn’t be the least bit surprised if we find ourselves buying their albums 10 years from now! I am so proud and lucky they are members of my group. Simply having them all present brings pleasure and balance to the group."
We couldn't be more excited to have Ataraxia as our Barefooter of the Month! It is amazing these kids found each other to rock with, and what Barefoot is all about!