The Nature Classroom: Where Wonder Meets Learning in SWFL
Connecting Kids to Nature, One Class at a Time
Located in Fort Myers, The Nature Classroom is an innovative, nature-based learning program dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of the environment in children—from the littlest explorers to homeschool families. Their mission? To spark curiosity, wonder, and respect for the natural world through play-based, hands-on, and sensory-rich learning.
The Heartbeat of the Program
A Focus on Play & Sensory Learning
— Play-Based Learning: Recognizing that children learn best through play, The Nature Classroom designs activities that are joyful, messy, exploratory, and open-ended, helping kids develop confidence, problem-solving skills, and creative thinking.
— Sensory Play: They focus on experiences that engage all the senses—touch, sight, sound, smell—building fine motor skills, curiosity, and cognitive growth. It is great for little ones development.
Outdoor Adventures & Nature Classes
The Nature Classroom classes encourage exploration and discovery in the great outdoors, helping children connect with the world around them and learn to love nature.
What they offer
Classes: Regular scheduled sessions that bring together nature, animals, and creative play.
Homeschool Classes: Specifically designed for homeschoolers—combining nature, science, and sensory experiences in structured yet playful formats.
Other Events & Parties: Ideal for birthdays or community meetups—special-themed activities and nature explorations. They often do events with Big City Kids and they are crowd pleasers!
Shop & Kits: They offer sensory and play kits like “Spooky Spider Playdough”, “Ocean”, “Bug Life”, “Outer Space”, “Fairy Garden”, and more. These kits are great to bring the sensory experience to your home.
Currently the program is offered in the FGCU campus, which also give access to the food forest, where children can explore and see plants from around the world. They also offer the program in Naples and keep opening new opportunities for more little ones to learn.
the Educators Behind the Magic
Ms. Rachel
An environmental educator with over a decade of experience teaching all ages about nature, wildlife, and conservation.
Ms. Taylor
A creator at heart. With a tech background and seven years of crafting sensory play for her own children, she brings creativity and intentionality to each program.
Who Should Check It Out?
Parents of toddlers and preschoolers looking for engaging, playful, and nature-centered learning experiences
Homeschooling families eager for sensory-rich, hands-on, and outdoor content
Community groups or party planners seeking memorable, nature-inspired events
Anyone wanting to nurture environmental curiosity in kids through creative, interactive means
The Nature Classroom stands out as one of the best programs for young SWFL learners to explore and connect with the nature. With passionate educators, diverse programs, and a strong emphasis on play and sensory exploration, the program not only teaches about nature—it brings nature to life for the next generation.
Want help exploring their calendar, picking a program, or sharing this with local families? Check their website here.
