Visitors welcome to the Farm by appointment only Read more
ALINE Co-op offers a unique nature-based learning environment that encourages hands-on exploration and real-time education. Our program is designed to enhance cognitive development, emotional well-being, and sensory regulation in children, empowering them to deeply align with themselves and the natural world.
At ALINE (Aligned Learning Institute for Nature Exploration), our mission is to provide a forest school model in a dynamic, nature-based learning environment where children engage in hands-on, real-time education and adventurous exploration. We foster curiosity, resilience, and critical thinking by climbing trees, navigating diverse landscapes, and embracing the outdoors in all weather. Grounded in evidence-based research, we aim to enhance cognitive development, emotional well-being, and sensory regulation, empowering children to align deeply with themselves, their relationships, and the natural world.
Concepts
We have three fundamental areas of focus in our Co-op.
Family Involvement
Research consistently shows that children exhibit greater cognitive, social, and emotional development when parents are actively involved in their learning experiences. For example, a study by Fan and Chen (2001) found that parental involvement positively correlates with academic achievement, as parents provide scaffolding, encouragement, and reinforcement of skills. In nature-based programs, parental presence can enhance exploration and risk-taking, as children feel more secure and supported, leading to increased curiosity and confidence (Carrus et al., 2015).
Nature Journaling
We believe that keeping a nature journal in a forest school setting fosters critical thinking and the development of literacy and scientific skills as children carefully observe and record details about the plants, animals, and ecosystems around them. It encourages them to ask questions, make connections, and reflect on their findings, deepening their understanding of the natural world. Through this practice, we’re not only nurturing their curiosity and creativity but also helping them build a stronger connection to nature and a sense of mindfulness in the outdoors.
Nature Exploration
Nature exploration serves as a pillar by actively engaging children in hands-on learning through guided nature walks, observation, applying the scientific method, and studying diverse ecosystems across Georgia’s coastal and inland regions. By frequently transitioning between locations, we provide students with opportunities to observe and analyze a variety of environments, enhancing their understanding of ecological systems and biodiversity. This approach fosters critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and a deeper connection to the natural world, while also promoting environmental stewardship and a lifelong appreciation for nature.
Discover ALINE Co-op
