Nature-based Unschooling Families
Embodiment and Community
Slow, Intentional Living
Supporting Cycles and Rhythms
We are a rhythm and nature based community at Camp Christmas Tree in Mound, Minnesota.
We believe conscious relationships are the roots that support a child, adults and a thriving community.
We come together as self-aware humans. We learn, we embrace our differences, we grow, and as a result we strengthen as a whole.
When adults have a commitment to conscious relationship, which honors emotional intelligence, self-responsibility, embodied presence and respectful parenting they are available to support children.
When children are respected by adults who trust in their natural curiosity they are free to learn without restriction.
We believe children thrive when curiosity is fostered.
When they are able to direct their own learning, supported by conscious adults, enriching resources, and nature, they learn to trust themselves.
A child that learns to listen to their needs, honor their feelings and regulate their nervous system feels safe in the world because they feel safe in their body.
When a slow, intentional environment is the background for a child’s day there is less anxiety.
When children are supported by emotionally available and present adults there is support in understanding their own worries and fears. This allows children to fully engage in the moment as they learn to listen and honor their body.
The trust they develop from following their knowing and interests leads them to their unique potential.
Children are whole, autonomous human beings and all of life involves learning. We do not see education as separate from life but what enriches it.
Let’s create something meaningful together.
Our Space
Tucked away and secluded, Camp Christmas Tree offers 30 beautiful acres of nature space on a peninsula of Dutch Lake.
The space has two open fields, a pavilion, access to fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
A gentle trail guides your journey with your first stop at an outdoor amphitheater. Brimming with possibility for impromptu plays, whimsical performances and musical creation. Your next stop is one of three fire pits on location for cooking, warming hands or telling stories. Just up the hill lies a creative art hut brimming with paint and the scent of imagination. There is an office with three desks and wi-fi. A science/discovery hut has room and potential to take apart, explore, invent and get lost in curious pursuits. There is a long tunnel slide and lots of nooks and cranny’s for reading, creative play and exploration. A cozy blanket and pillow filled yurt is the perfect quiet spot for napping and resting for those who need a little extra comfort and peace.
A playground and small climbing wall exists for those looking for a little more structured agility. But don’t forget about all the potential yet to be created, dug up, invented and built in the woods!
There is also future potential for building vegetable gardens, having chickens and possibly a goat!