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 lessons and Reggio Emilia style emergent curriculum.

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 wellbeing. Connecting to the natural world can promote mindfulness and self-awareness by helping foster a deeper connection to oneself and the environment.

At LML, we believe in child-led play and interest-led learning. 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 wellbeing. 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.

While child-led play is encouraged at LML, our sessions are not a complete free-for-all. I use a mix of curriculums and educational philosophies (Forest School, Reggio Emilia, Charlotte Mason, Waldorf, etc.) when planning 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. I will attempt to give prompts or spark an idea with our mini-lessons and ask curiosity questions as I observe play. This is a practice I am refining at each session, and I encourage all caregivers to do the same. I am continuously learning and growing in an attempt to craft a program that kids are excited to participate in: one that keeps them engaged, encourages them to follow their curiosity and natural desire to learn, strengthen their resilience, and give them confidence in their knowledge and abilities.

More than just a homeschool co-op, LML is a community. I 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. I hope you are as excited as I am to be a part of this community.