Academics
Our Philosophy
At Flora & Fauna, we believe that education is the process by which children are engaged, in their wholeness, to discover who they are, what they are capable of, and to follow their passions so they can live a life full of meaning and purpose.
Approach
We are an eclectic homeschool learning community inspired by aspects of Waldorf and Montessori, operating from the belief that education should encompass the whole child. Heart. Mind. Body. Spirit. Learning should be a joyous lifelong pursuit.
Preserving Play in Childhood
Jean Piaget, a pioneering force in the field of Educational Psychology, said that "play is the work of childhood" and we couldn't agree more. We intentionally make time for unstructured PLAY every day. Research shows that play leads to learning and emotional well-being.
Learning Environment
The outdoor classroom and forested campus provide an environment rich in natural aesthetics, boosting our moods, freeing our movements, and stimulating our creativity and imaginations.
Core Academic Program
Language
Math/Science
Handwork/Creative Arts
At Flora & Fauna, we place literacy development at the heart of our mission, believing that strong reading and writing skills are the foundation of lifelong learning, empowering students to think critically, communicate effectively, and engage with the world around them. Using the Science of Reading approach, we support a variety of learning styles with research-based strategies that develop strong reading abilities. In the younger grades, we lay the groundwork for writing through foundational skills, leading to a formal writing program for our middle school cohorts. Our literature selections blend classic masterpieces with contemporary works, exposing students to diverse perspectives and rich storytelling. Most importantly, we cultivate a love for reading by making it a rewarding and immersive experience, ensuring that every student discovers the joy and power of storytelling and self-expression.
We believe that handwork and creative arts play a vital role in education, nurturing both imagination and practical skills. Through activities like knitting, painting, and sculpting, children develop dexterity, concentration, and problem-solving abilities, while also experiencing the satisfaction of creating something with their own hands. These hands-on experiences engage both mind and body, fostering a deep connection to learning and the world around them. Beyond building technical skills, artistic expression encourages confidence, patience, and a sense of accomplishment. Whether stitching a carefully crafted project or blending colors on a canvas, students gain an appreciation for craftsmanship and creativity that enriches their academic journey and personal growth.
Our daily life and the natural world are filled with abundant opportunities to explore and engage in math and science. As we dive into our studies, we will use all our senses to cultivate curiosity and to encourage exploration and discovery. Imagination and ingenuity will abound! Our math studies approach meets students where they are and helps them grow their skills as expert mathematicians- all while exploring the wonders of mathematics. Our science lessons are designed to immerse students in hands-on experiments and activities making science come alive.
Our Methods
Inquiry Based Learning
Learners explore topics of interest, ask questions, and seek answers in their research journals. Teachers and parents will work together to guide students through the process of inquiry-based learning. This culminates in a unique handmade project to present at the Family Showcase. Through this process they are taught how to learn, not what to learn.
Experiential Education
Engaging, hands-on activities make learning fun! Weather it's planning and creating a pollinator garden, baking bread together, or putting on a play- the students of Flora & Fauna will always be working on projects that engage their creativity, sense of wonder, and curiosity.
Partnership
As partners in your child’s home education, we provide a solid foundation in reading, writing, math, science and social studies. You have the flexibility to use your time as a family to pursue interests and hobbies with the assurance that your child is getting all necessary instruction in the core subjects during their time at Flora & Fauna.