New Nature-Focused Child Education and Wellness Program Opens in Sarasota

September 13, 2023 – Sarasota

Curious and Kind has reimagined education and is offering youth in Sarasota three unique programs that are grounded in nature-based interest-driven learning. The Annie E. Casey Foundation studies consistently show that youth are experiencing a mental health crisis with rising anxiety and depression. Other studies continue to report childhood obesity is on the rise. Something has to change for the betterment of our youth, thus Curious and Kind Education was born. Children need alternatives to traditional schools where they sit inside large classes most of the day.

At Curious and Kind Education children enjoy benefits for their development and growth while building social-emotional learning skills, using and developing creativity, and critical thinking, as well as, creating community for themselves and their families. Curious and Kind Education empowers children to learn about themselves, others, and the natural world developing their minds and bodies. This serves children in their holistic wellness preventing mental health and physical health issues which are unfortunately so common in today’s youth.

These programs are unlike any other in Sarasota because they are nature-based, secular, and empowering to children. The learners themselves design the curriculum! They follow their interests while the teachers inquire, encourage, and inform, as needed. Learning in small groups also creates social stability where children are seen. This model provides an alternative fresh approach to education.

Curious and Kind Education has been awarded a VELA microgrant to support the reimagining of education creating alternatives to traditional education. The grant money has been awarded to reduce economic barriers by reducing tuition costs and providing free weekend programming.

Additionally, Curious and Kind’s partnership with the Sarasota County Parks and Recreation further demonstrates the community’s commitment to getting children outdoors into the shady neighborhood parks.

Curious and Kind Education is a small woman-owned business that launched spring of 2023 to a warm and exciting response. Justine Wilson, the Founder, is a long-time educator with over 20 years of outdoor education and traditional school experience being brought to the intentional design of the programs. Throughout her years, she has taught elementary school and served as Principal in 4 countries which brings empathy, understanding, and multiculturalism to the program. Justine has a unique approach of connecting the mind and heart knowing that children are natural learners and the programs she has designed give children space and support in their learning journey. She sets an environment where the children can take the lead in their own learning.

For more information visit curiousandkind.org