Oak Leaf Barrington

Nestled in the heart of Barrington, IL, our nature programs offer a one-of-a-kind educational experience that brings learning to life through nature. We proudly offer a an early learning nature program, and child-caregiver enrichment classes—all held outdoors, year-round.

Through hands-on exploration and child-led discovery, we nurture a deep love for the natural world and a strong sense of respect—for people, plants, and animals alike. We envision a future where every child grows up knowing they belong to nature, empowered to protect it, and equipped to build a more just, resilient, and regenerative world.

All programs are run in partnership with the Barrington Park District. Registration information is available on their website and linked below each program description

We believe that by helping children build meaningful connections with the world around them, we’re planting seeds of change that will grow for generations.

Early Learning Nature Program

Age: 3-5 years

Days: 2-5 Days a Week

Time: 8:30am-11:30am

This outdoor early childhood nature based program fosters curiosity, compassion, empathy, cultural awareness, creative problem solving and environmental responsibility in young children. Our goal is to instill respect for people, plants, and animals at an early age, setting the foundation for children to become responsible citizens and environmental stewards.

Led by a certified early childhood nature based teacher, in partnership with the Barrington Park District, this early learning program provides a developmentally appropriate, play based early childhood education program that promotes respect for people and nature through outdoor learning.

All classes are located at the Treehouse at Citizens Park with daily nature walks in the Cuba Marsh Forest Preserve.

When the Treehouse is closed for the season, in case of severe weather like dangerously low temperatures or lightning, we will utilize the Lodge at Citizens Park for indoor learning. Should there be an onset of heavy snow, class will be held at Langendorf Park that day due to plowing schedules. This will be communicated to parents in advance. Children must be potty-trained, or a parent/caregiver must be available to change a diaper or pull-up.

All REGISTRATION IS THROUGH THE BARRINGTON PARK DISTRICT: Oak Leaf Early Learning Program

Enrichment Classes

18 months-5 years with caregiver

Nature Tots

It’s time to get out of the house and into nature! In this mixed-age class, toddlers and caregivers will explore the changing seasons, learn about the wonders of nature, engage in imaginative play, learn songs and participate in story time featuring seasonally themed picture books – Classes take place outside at the Treehouse at Citizens Park in the Summer and Fall. During Winter and Spring, classes are both inside and outside at the Lodge at Citizens Park, weather dependent.

Art in Nature

What happens when watercolor is added to dirt? How does an artist use rocks to create a masterpiece? Have you ever painted with ice? How do you make paint from flowers and plants? Children can use art to develop creativity and support cognitive, social, emotional, and motor growth. Nature can provide everything a child needs to be creative through play. In this mixed-age art class, toddlers and caregivers will engage in hands-on/process-based art projects using simple art tools and natural materials. Classes take place at the Treehouse at Citizens Park in the Summer and Fall. During Winter and Spring, classes are both inside and outside at the Lodge at Citizens Park, weather dependent.

All REGISTRATION IS THROUGH THE BARRINGTON PARK DISTRICT: Oak Leaf Enrichment Classes