Who are we?

The WYLD Lands Forest School is an immersive outdoor experiential learning program designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence in youth through nature-based play and exploration. Rooted in the belief that the natural world is one of the best classrooms, WYLD Lands encourages children to learn by doing! 

Our curriculum is thoughtfully blended from the well-known “1000 Hours Outside” movement and proven environmental education practices. Rather than following a traditional classroom model, children engage in open-ended, play-based learning experiences that include hiking wooded trails, building shelters and forts, learning to safely use real tools, exploring streams and ecosystems, and letting their imaginations run wild beneath the trees.

Through these meaningful outdoor activities, youth naturally develop fine motor skills, independence, critical thinking, teamwork, and self-esteem. Whether they are daydreaming under the canopy of leaves or solving problems with their peers in the dirt, every moment spent at WYLD Lands helps young people grow more rooted in themselves and their surroundings.

We offer income based scholarships for all programs. Register your child for one of our programs today! To get started please fill out the WYLD Lands Interest Form below.

Program Offerings 

Homeschool Seedlings Group

This parent drop off program is run as a traditional forest school for potty trained 3 to 12 year olds. This runs from 9:30 am – 1:30 pm on Mondays and Wednesdays 1:30 pm – 5:30 pm. You can sign up for one day or both!

Youth Summer Camp

Enroll your child in a drop off day camp at The WYLD Lands Forest School. This camp aims to get kids off screens and in nature for endless adventures this summer. Kids will have the opportunity to play in the creek, hammock, safely use real tools, learn about local flora and fauna, play games, and make friends. Registration is open to potty trained 3 to 12 year olds. Our camp runs from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm Monday through Friday. Sign up for one week or the whole summer! 

*The WYLD Lands run with a 6:1 youth-to-teacher ratio*

Scholarship Application

WYLD Lands Interest Form

Parent Name
Which program are you interested in registering for?

Email Madison Bryan at Madison@wilkesyouth.org with any questions.

FAQs

1. Where is the WYLD Lands located?
The WYLD Lands address is 22 S Park Road North Wilkesboro, NC 28659.
2. What should my child wear?
We ask parents to follow these parameters when getting their children ready for a day outdoors with the WYLD Lands. Children will need:

  • T-shirt/Long sleeve (bright colors suggested for safety)

  • Pants/Leggings/Shorts

  • Shoes: Closed-toed shoes are a must. NO sandals or flip flops.

  • Water shoes- Crocs or a similar shoe will work for playing in the creek. These can be brought in backpacks and put on if a water activity is included during the day.

3. What should my child bring?
Children must bring the following items each day they attend:

  • Backpack/Bag that fits ALL daily supplies/extra clothes/etc

  • Extra set of socks, shoes, pants/shorts, underwear, shirt

  • Hat for sun protection or warmth

  • Sunscreen and bug spray

  • Water bottle (one that will not spill if tipped over – water only please, no juice!

  • Towel

  • Snack for After School Program/Bag lunch for Homeschool Program
  • Smaller bag for wet/dirty clothes (a reusable bag or a plastic grocery bag works
    4. Where do I drop off and pick up my child?
    Pickup and drop off will be at the Highland Park Picnic Pavilion. A staff member will be waiting to help them out of the car.
    5. What will my child be doing at the WYLD Lands?
    Everyday looks different where the WYLD things play. Forest school activities are varied and child-led, emphasizing hands-on exploration and learning in a natural environment. Common activities include nature observation, building shelters, using tools, exploring with mud and water, and creating art with natural materials. They also involve activities like campfire circles, story time, and creek play.
    6. Who can I contact if I have questions or need assistance while my child is at the WYLD Lands?
    Please reach out to our Project Coordinator, Madison Bryan, at (336) 577-4122 or message your child’s teacher on the Brightwheel App.
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