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Welcome to Deer River Wildground Enrichment Programs

At Wildground Enrichment, we’re reimagining what childhood can look like. In a world that often asks children to sit still, fall in line, and disconnect from nature, we offer something different: a return to curiosity, freedom, and belonging — outdoors.

We believe children learn best when they feel safe, connected, and inspired. Our nature-based enrichment program honors the innate wisdom of childhood: to explore, to play, to build, to rest, and to grow — on their own terms, in their own time.

 

Who We Are

Wildground Enrichment is a branch of Deer River Wildground, founded by a child and family therapist and a team of passionate nature-based educators. We are also parents, clinicians, farmers, and lifelong learners. We’ve seen firsthand how nature supports children’s emotional regulation, creativity, resilience, and joy — and we’re here to share that magic with your family.

 

Our guiding values:

  • Respect for each child’s rhythm and identity

  • Nature as co-teacher and therapist

  • Community, consent, and compassionate boundaries

  • Play as essential, not optional

  • Inclusion of neurodivergent, sensitive, and spirited children
     

What We Offer

Seasonal Break: November–May
We pause for winter and restart in May with our spring/summer offerings.

Each session includes:

  • Nature-based free play and exploration

  • Sensory and motor-rich invitations (mud play, building, collecting)

  • Gentle social-emotional learning through stories, games, and conversation

  • Time to connect, unwind, and just be
     

Our approach is emergent and child-led — rooted in trust, not worksheets.
 

The Benefits of Nature-Based Enrichment

Research continues to affirm what caregivers and cultures have always known: nature heals, teaches, and grows whole children. At Deer River Wildground, your child benefits from:

  • Improved emotional regulation

  • Enhanced social skills and empathy

  • Strengthened sensory and motor development

  • Increased resilience and problem-solving

  • A deep sense of calm and connection
     

And perhaps most importantly — the joy of unstructured play and the freedom to be fully themselves.

Our Classes

FQA

Are you really outside all the time?

Yes! We are a 100% outdoor, all-weather program — rain, snow, sun, and everything in between. The changing seasons are part of our curriculum. We believe nature is at her best when she’s unpredictable — and children thrive when they learn to meet her with curiosity and resilience.

Exception: In the case of dangerous weather (e.g., high winds, lightning, extreme cold), we will contact families directly with a plan.

What should my child wear?

Great question — gear matters! Kids should come dressed for mud, water, and weather. Please send them in clothing that can get dirty, wet, and loved.
 

Required gear includes:

  • Rain suit or waterproof outerwear

  • Waders or waterproof boots/shoes

  • Extra dry layers and socks

  • Warm hats/gloves in colder months

  • Sun hats and breathable clothing in warmer months
     

We recommend labeling everything and packing a full change of clothes, just in case

What type of bathroom set up do you have?

We use a clean and child-friendly composting toilet at our basecamp. There is no indoor plumbing, so we teach children to care for their bodies and the land with respect and self-sufficiency.

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Children in our drop-off programs must be fully potty trained and able to give sufficient notice when they need to use the bathroom — as we are often away from the main camp exploring trails, forests, or meadows. Pull-ups or diapers are not permitted in these programs.

What safety expectations do you have?

Safety is our top priority. Children in our drop-off programs must have a clear sense of boundaries and demonstrate the ability to:

  • Stay with the group

  • Follow directions from guides

  • Not elope or run off, even in moments of excitement or frustration
     

We practice clear routines, use visual boundaries, and encourage leadership in self-regulation.

What about snacks and meals?

We are a pack in/pack out program. Families should send snacks and/or lunch in a reusable container. Please avoid single-use plastic and pack only what your child can comfortably carry.

There is no refrigeration or heating on-site, so pack food accordingly.

Will my child come home muddy?

Absolutely. And we hope they do.
 

Nature play is immersive, and mud is part of the experience. Children who are allowed to dig, stomp, splash, and build become confident, grounded, and joyful learners. Please send them in clothes that are truly okay to get messy.
 

(Pro tip: Keep a big towel and plastic bin in the car for the ride home!)


Can I visit or meet you before enrolling?

We’d love to connect! Reach out to schedule a visit or phone call. We’re always happy to answer questions, show you the land, and share more about what makes Wildground so special.

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