Fern Grove Cooperative Learning

Fern Grove offers project-based, emergent (child-centered) learning for children ages 3-10. Valuing knowledge from the environment and one another, we believe in fostering anti-bias learning and earth stewardship. We offer a 6:1 student-teacher ratio to maximize learning and care. With integrated academics and rich learning opportunities, see your child thrive outdoors with us!

We offer two cooperative learning cohorts for children ages 3-10 years old.

Academic Year Programming:

Monday – Thursday | 9am-3pm

Nomadic locations around Santa Cruz County (rotating monthly)

*Please note: There is a two-day-per-week minimum for the remainder of the 2025-2026 academic year.

Ferns (6-10 year olds)

With rich, integrated academics, Sarah will lead your children in projects that will draw your child into learning. By creating learning opportunities that are playful, interesting, and based on child interest, your children will gain knowledge while enjoying themselves! Learning will be group-based, while also providing time for individualized teaching.

Fiddleheads (3-6 year olds)

With a combination of emergent learning and a play-based focus, Teacher Caryn will provide fun and enriching activities that will help your children learn language and literacy skills, early mathematics and science knowledge, and explore arts and culture. Learning will be scaffolded to best suit each child’s developmental goals.

Daily Rhythm

9:00 Arrival and Game

9:30 Snack and Free Play

10:00 Opening Circle

10:30 Activity #1

11:00 Hike

11:30 Activity #2 in Location

12:00 Lunch + Free Play

1:00 Circle Time + Reading

2:00 Hike Back

2:30-3:00 Free Play + Pick-Up

Summer Programs

Click here for more information about Summer Camp 2025!

Tuition & Payments

During the academic year, we offer tuition on a sliding scale basis, ranging from approximately $13-18 per hour. Families have the option to choose any scale, however, we ask that families who can pay more do so that we can make our program more accessible for others! See more on our Tuition & Payments page.