Little Mountain Learners, Ltd Co (LML) is a secular early years nature-immersion program and homeschool cooperative. We place a high priority on social and emotional development and life skills, while reinforcing traditional academics through short Charlotte Mason style lessons. LML meets weekly on 17 acres of private property in NW Richland County, as well as occasional Fridays across the midlands. 

At LML, we believe that learning opportunities happen every day, all around us. We attempt to lean into these opportunities, guided by the children. Adults often overlook or dismiss unstructured child-led play, when it actually shapes the foundation of healthy development and learning. Unstructured play fosters creativity, problem-solving skills, social interactions, and emotional well-being. When this happens in a natural outdoor setting, the benefits are heightened. LML believes these skills, along with a regulated nervous system, are essential for higher-level thinking. Modern-day kids are often robbed of the opportunity to play freely. At LML, we set aside time every day for true child-led play. Our days are carefully crafted to inspire and engage the children, encourage them to follow their curiosity and natural desire to learn, strengthen their resilience, and give them confidence in their knowledge and abilities.

I use a mix of curriculums and educational philosophies (Forest School, Reggio Emilia, Charlotte-Mason, Waldorf, etc.) when planning our sessions. However, session plans are subject to change based on the current interests of the learners or the flow of the day. Louis Malaguzzi, founder of Reggio Emilia philosophy, coined the term "emergent curriculum," which requires educators to actively seek out the interests of the child. While child-led play is encouraged at LML, it's not always a complete free-for-all. I attempt to give prompts or spark an idea with our mini-lessons and ask curiosity questions as I observe their play. This is a practice that I am refining at each session, and I encourage other caregivers to do the same. I am continuously learning and growing in an attempt to craft a program that kids wake up excited to participate in. 

As a nature-immersion program, we spend 99+% of our time outdoors. Spending time in nature has been proven to significantly enhance mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression while improving mood, cognitive function, and overall well-being. Connecting to the natural world can promote mindfulness and self-awareness by helping foster a deeper connection to oneself and the environment.

More than just a homeschool co-op, LML is a community. We encourage all caregivers and siblings to gather with us. Humans are designed for connection, and we want to connect with your entire family. Children and caregivers alike learn together, play together, grow together, support each other, and realize their fullest potential together. I hope you are as excited as I am to be a part of this movement.