A new drop-in preschool education program is helping St. Pete kids get back to their roots – literally. We Grow Wildlings officially launched this January, a twice-weekly “forest preschool” and outdoor education program for children aged 3-6 years old, hosted at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. The program is available on a drop-in basis with no ongoing commitment, perfect for stay-at-home parents who need an enriching option for their kids while also getting some personal time back.
Founded by local educator Ragon Ralston, We Grow Wildlings is designed to build confidence and independence in young children by allowing them to explore the outdoors while learning math, science and literacy skills through an engaging and developmentally appropriate curriculum. A mother herself with more than a decade of experience as an early childhood educator, Ralston has created the type of educational experience she would want her own son to have.
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Classes currently meet every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 am – 12 pm at the Lake Maggiore Environmental Education Center, with the current semester running through May 28. Spots are limited, and registration is open now. As We Grow Wildlings grows, Ralston says they plan to offer more classes, as well as “open-house” nature events for any child to come join for a fun day in the outdoors.
“We believe that nature offers the perfect learning environment and that children are at their best when they are free to explore and learn at their own pace,” We Grow Wildlings said. “Our curriculum is flexible and adaptable, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to engage in activities that interest them and support their development, while still meeting the same standards that Florida public schools strive to meet.”
Ralston, the founder and lead educator, has studied and worked in the field of early childhood development for more than ten years, working in various private and public school settings, teaching kids yoga and art, and even opening up a gym-based childcare center within the former Body Electric Athletic Company. With a team of fellow early childhood educators at her side, Ralston has showcased a passion for nurturing kids, helping them be their best, and giving them the individualized care necessary to learn and grow within a framework of structured freedom.
The We Grow Wildings programs are curated to help children develop social, emotional, cognitive, and physical skills in a natural environment, taking them into the beautiful nature preserve at Boyd Hill and allowing them to learn the way any kid would prefer – while playing outdoors.
“Our program is designed to provide your child with a wealth of knowledge and skills while experiencing nature firsthand,” Wildlings said. “Our programs incorporate the same academic standards that Florida public schools strive to meet, while also fostering a love for nature and a sense of wonder in young children.”
Learn more and register your child at wegrowwildlings.com.
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