Salamanders ages 6-11/12

The Bear’s Web invites children and staff into deep connection with wilderness—both within and all around us. Rooted in the understanding that we are not separate from Land or Her beings, we nurture care, curiosity, and respect for all life. As children build relationship with Land, they move with wonder, act with care, and begin to understand their place in the web of life.

Our approach is guided by Coyote Teaching—a playful, relational style where Earth leads the learning. We follow each child’s curiosity, ask open-ended questions, and hold back from giving quick answers. A question like, “What is that bird?” becomes a path of deeper noticing, listening, and connection. Even our games carry hidden lessons in teamwork, tracking, problem-solving, and awareness—whether or not children realize they’re learning.

We get to know each individual child—their strengths, sensitivities, and ways of being. Together, we create group agreements and a culture of shared responsibility. Our supervision is flexible and responsive: we support more closely when needed, step back when possible, and always model care and respect. Conflict is seen as a learning opportunity. We guide children in resolving issues without harm, helping them listen, express themselves, and slowly build the confidence to work things out on their own.

This approach engages the whole child—body, heart, mind, and spirit—and invites a sense of belonging with each other and with Land. We care for Earth because we are part of Her.

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