Children exploring and playing outdoors in a wooded forest, some sitting and digging in the dirt, others standing and observing, with trees and leaf-covered ground around them.

Nature-Based Learning at Pace Academy

Sign Up for Weekday Classes

We are proud to be the exclusive provider of the TimberNook program in Central Virginia. TimberNook offers research-based, child-led outdoor play experiences that foster creativity, independence, and a deep connection to nature. Our nature-based classes provide children with the opportunity to explore the outdoors in meaningful ways, from building forts to engaging in imaginative play, all while supporting their physical, cognitive, and emotional growth.

Registration Now Open!
A young boy with messy dirt-covered hands smiling and playing in a wooded outdoor area with green trees, wearing a black t-shirt with the Peace Academy logo.

New Weekly Classes Coming in 2025

Beginning in the new year, we will offer TimberNook classes for ages 5-12 every Tuesday from 9am to 12pm. These sessions blend guided activities with unstructured play, encouraging children to explore, create, and develop a love for the outdoors. Each session is available for a cost of $270.

Session 1: January 14, 21, 28, February 4, 11, 25

Session 2: March 4, 11, 18, 25, April 8, 15

Session 3: April 22, 29, May 6, 13, 20, 29

Secure Your Spot Today!

Please note: These classes are a wonderful addition to our offerings and are separate from our school’s outdoor programming for learners.

Program Benefits

Children playing outdoors in a wooded area, building with tires and sand toys, surrounded by trees and a wooden play structure.

Supports Development

Our experiences meet a range of developmental needs that are not typically part of a content-based curriculum. Students are encouraged to take age-appropriate risks, engage their senses, and challenge their body and mind in ways that sitting in a regular classroom cannot.

Children playing in a wooded outdoor area with hay bales, tires, wooden pallets, and a small wooden playhouse.

Intentional Curriculum

The curriculum is thoughtfully crafted to ignite creativity and spark curiosity among students. Key elements such as extended time outdoors, generous space, and natural loose materials facilitate immersive and meaningful play experiences with peers.

Children gathered in a forest participating in an outdoor art activity with tables, paints, and supplies.

Advanced Social
Skills

Through collaborative play and interaction with peers, children develop essential social skills such as listening, negotiating, and cooperating. These experiences build their ability to work together and communicate effectively.

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Children participating in a craft activity at a forest outdoor event, with trees and craft supplies visible.

TimberNook Summer Experience

Our TimberNook summer camps for children ages 4-12 in the greater Richmond area are a wonderful way for kids to connect with nature, engage in imaginative play, and develop valuable skills. Registration for summer 2025 will open on January 20. For additional information on specific programs and to register, keep an eye out on our TimberNook Registration page.