AOW offers two options for summer programming. We have a “Little Winds Outdoor Program” that is geared towards younger children (ages 3-6). We also offer “Wild Winds Outdoor Program” that is geared for older children (ages 7 - 10). Scroll down to see descriptions of both programs.
If you are interested please fill out the form at the bottom of the page.
Little Winds Outdoor Program
Little Winds Outdoor Program will be a summer full of exploration for your 3- 6yr old, child.
The Little Winds Outdoor Program will be held at the AOW campus, all summer long. The students will use and explore our beautiful 7.5 acres of forest on campus.
Children will engage in a variety of science topics in a nature based curriculum. They will have ample time for observation, play, and experiencing everything nature has to offer. With structured and unstructured learning time children will have a fun summer, full of placed based learning.
Every day the students will be in our “woods” using the Outdoor Classroom and the surrounding area for exploration and learning. They will then have ample play time, followed by lunch and rest time.
This program will be filled with crafts, mud, gardening, water, sticks, and fun!
Goals:
Children will learn how to safely explore and interact with nature.
Nurture the children’s natural curiosity about nature.
Engage in their surrounding environment through observation, nature crafting, journaling/art, and fun.
Schedule: June 8th- August 7th (No camp the week of July 6th-10th)
*This program will have a max of 10 children per day.
*** Please note that your child MUST be toilet trained before enrolling. We do not have the staff to cover bathroom accidents.
COST:
Full time: $675mo (7:45am-3:00pm)
Weekly: $250 wk. (1 week of Full Time)
Daily Drop In: $60
Wild Winds Outdoor Program
Wild Winds Outdoor Program
Wild Winds is a summer full of adventure, exploration, and hands-on learning for children ages 7–10.
Each week, children will be immersed in the outdoors—spending time both on the Academy of the Winds campus and exploring the incredible natural spaces in and around Sinks Canyon and beyond. Through guided exploration, children will learn about local topography, navigation, trails, plants, animals, waterways, and the unique geographical features that make our area so special.
Every day includes generous opportunities for free play, exploration, observation, and discovery, allowing children to connect deeply with the natural world while building confidence and independence.
Program Goals
Challenge children through meaningful outdoor activities that promote leadership, self-confidence, and cooperation
Foster environmental awareness and stewardship while building knowledge of local ecosystems
Provide hands-on, experiential learning that ignites a lasting appreciation and love for the outdoor spaces surrounding Lander
This Program Is a Great Fit for Children Who Are:
7–10 years old
Enthusiastic about spending time outdoors
Able to hike moderate distances daily while carrying their own backpack with daily essentials
Able to follow safety guidelines and meet behavioral expectations in an outdoor group setting
Schedule
Dates: June 8 – August 7 (No Camp the week of July 6th-10th)
Each day blends structured and unstructured outdoor learning. Mornings begin with a hands-on, science-based lesson that is exploratory and curiosity-driven. From there, children travel to a nearby location to deepen their understanding of the day’s topic through real-world experience. Afternoons include outdoor play, reflection, and continued exploration.
Wild Winds is designed to be active, engaging, and grounded in nature—supporting children as they learn, move, explore, and grow all summer long.
COST:
Full time: $675mo (7:45am-3:00pm)
Weekly: $250 wk. (1 week of Full Time)
Daily Drop In: $60
*Please Note summer programs are at an additional cost for AOW students
