Treehouse FAQs

In short, ALL kids. 

Treehouse is intentionally designed to welcome & accommodate a range of learning styles, personalities, diverse-abilities & interests. Kids who may struggle in traditional school settings, or are experiencing social-emotional challenges, may find outdoor learning an especially good fit.

All sessions at Treehouse open & close with a time of outdoor “circle”. These moments build relationships, provide security, explore interests, address challenges, encourage reflection & exercise FUN. Kids will learn to “pack in” (gather all the materials needed for the day) & “pack out” before dismissal (clean, organize & put materials away).

Most sessions will include hiking, exploration, free play, group challenges, a creative element of art or music, open learning activities, the “peace place” experience (sometimes called “sit spots”), journaling & lots of laughter.

Generally, a snack break is built into the schedule, but kids are welcome to nibble & hydrate as needed.

Clothing: Layers are recommended as weather & locations change frequently. Clothes should be comfortable, breathable & allow active movement. We often get dirty!

Footwear:  For ideal safety & comfort, kids may wear tennis shoes or hiking/rain boots. Sandals or “Crocs” that are snug & strapped are also ok.

(Rain ponchos, waders & garden gloves are available to borrow at Treehouse.)

Kids should bring a sturdy, filled water bottle with the ability to be clipped to hiking packs (clips provided), along with a simple snack that requires no refrigeration nor heat. 

Treehouse will not supply, nor apply, sunscreen & bugspray. Please send kids prepped & ready for the outdoors.

Safety is a top priority. In most circumstances, safety is ensured through proper class planning & supervision. We pre-check all trails/areas for safety concerns & awareness. Our adult to student ratio will not exceed 1:6. In addition, staff is trained in positive discipline (see below) as well as wilderness safety & first aid. At all times, guides carry a first aid kit as well as a cell phone for emergency contacts.

At Treehouse, we focus more on what is going well rather than what isn’t. Often, this sets a tone of positivity & cooperation reflected in relationships, personal choices, attitudes & effort. In addition, research proves that behavioral “issues” are greatly reduced in an outdoor setting.

Our Treehouse Creed:

“At Treehouse Outdoor Learning, we are in awe of our creator & respect all of creation, including the time, space & spirit of learners & leaders.”

However, if a student is struggling, guides will provide private reassurance (I see you. I believe in you.), redirection (Let’s try this!) or relief (Hungry? Thirsty? Tired? Overwhelmed?). 

If distraction or unsafe actions continue, guides will provide a safe spot & reflective focus. 

(In rare cases, an incident report may be shared with a parent outlining behaviors & a proposed plan to resolve.)

We believe in “grit”. We dance in the rain, splash in the puddles, roll in the snow & relish the sunshine. However, sometimes Michigan gets a bit feisty.

Guides are instructed to maintain weather threat awareness. In the case of severe weather that may cause safety concerns (lightning/hail/extreme winds/frigid temps/extreme heat/etc), an onsite emergency shelter will be identified for use.

If a session is cancelled due to inclement weather, you will be notified & receive an alternative date.

Treehouse is a drop off & pick up program. Please be timely & encourage your kids to come prepared.

Parents are always more than welcome to relax onsite or enjoy the nearby trails, but are also free to run errands or grab a quiet coffee. (If you are your child’s emergency contact, please keep your phone handy.)

Often, the final session will include a learning “share-abration”. This gives kids the opportunity to present their work & be appreciated for their efforts. Parents, grandparents & friends are encouraged to attend!

Yes! Treehouse swag makes a perfect accomplishment, birthday or Christmas gift for the kids…& adults love it too.

We’d love your support in this way!

COMING SOON