Urban Forest Rules

Our standard class runs for 1h time.

We are an all outdoor program and as an outdoor nature program we plan to experience and learn from all types of weather. All year round, we hold class in the sun, snow, and rain, and make sure each child is safe, engaged, and supported during our play and explorations.

Depending on the type of class, the child will receive an individual learning bag kit containing the materials needed for the class which are not to be shared. These learning kits will be offered for the Outdoor Learning type of classes (not Movement) and especially if the class is centered around Arts and Craft approach. The teacher will offer the bags when the parent/caregiver brings in the child so that you will see what type of materials will be used by the child.

We have prepared the information and guidelines below to help your child be as prepared as possible to enjoy our program. Take careful note of the essential gear with which your child needs to arrive. Teachers will do a cursory gear check upon each child’s arrival. Please understand that due to safety concerns we cannot sign in a child that is not properly prepared for the weather and outdoor environment.

Class Location

Please be prompt meeting the class at the communicated location in Regele Mihai I (former Herastrau) Park, Roaba de Cultura area – easily arriving from Aviatorilor main entrance or Blvd. Aviatorilor.

If you are running very late, please note we cannot sign in your child after 30min delay, as it is too disruptive to the group.

Teachers will be identifiable by the Urban Forest logo on their sweaters. You can find photos and bios for your child’s teachers posted on our Team page.

Parents and caregivers must sign their child in and out with our teachers on location following the online scheduling confirmation, verifying the online scheduling details and any additional information required. Children will be given an Urban Forest branded vest during class to identify them as part of our group.

Please note: Parents need to remain within reaching distance in the area where the class is taking place. Children will only be released to adults who are signing the child. We take this very seriously in order to keep the children safe.

Sick Policy

If your child has had a fever or any other symptoms linked to illness in the past 24 hours (vomiting, diarrhea, rash, etc.) or if you feel your child is contagious and/or will not be able to safely learn and play with us in the park, for their well-being and the well-being of the other children, please keep them home.

If on a given day our teachers notice any behaviors or symptoms that we suspect may be due to illness your child will not be able to attend.

Do you offer classes rescheduling if we miss one?
You are welcome to reschedule up to three classes maximum without paying any additional fees, if notified one day prior to the day of the classes.

Inclement Weather Policy

Classes will be canceled on days where the weather forecast does not allow for safe outdoor play. In this case, we will send an email message, and all children scheduled to attend that day will receive the option of a makeup class scheduled later on. These makeup days will be scheduled by Urban Forest and alternative makeup days will not be offered. We are outdoors rain or shine; inclement weather for us means dangerous conditions only, such as severe cold, wind advisories, and thunderstorms.

What To Wear

Please send children in comfortable clothing that can get wet and dirty and allows them to move and play. It is imperative children arrive dressed appropriately for class in order for them to fully enjoy our outdoor learning environment. When in doubt, it is best to send along any extra layers you think your child may need.

• Rain gear: We recommend that rain gear is worn over your child’s regular gear on rainy, muddy, and damp days. Rain boots must be worn on rainy, muddy, and damp days.
• Sun Hats: Sun hats are necessary for hot, sunny days. They provide some SPF and can keep a child from overheating.
• Footwear: Please take note that it’s important for the kids to have proper footwear with rubber soles that protect toes and has good grip for running and climbing. Examples include: Rain boots are absolutely necessary on rainy days as is a spare change of shoes after class if needed. NO open-toed sandals, flip flops, Natives or Crocs at any time as they have little to no tread.

Children are encouraged to immerse themselves in our natural surroundings. Please be advised that children’s clothing will become dirty and possibly stained during class.

For the warmer months children must arrive wearing sunscreen, sun hats, and bug spray each day. For colder months, we recommend multiple layers for warmth, which can be adjusted if a child feels too warm.

 Important: Please ensure your children come prepared to enjoy their days with us. We are diligent in making sure the children are safe and as comfortable as possible at all times. If a child is not properly prepared for the weather and outdoor environment, we will not be able to welcome him or her to the class.

What to Bring

Each child may bring one bag which holds all they need for the day, clearly labeled with their name.

Please send:

• 1 FULL water bottle
• 1 hand sanitizer
• Sunscreen and bug spray clearly labeled with your child’s name (for warmer months).
• Additional warm layers: hats, gloves, wool socks, etc. (for colder months).
• Extra set of clothes (tops, bottoms, underwear, and socks) in the event of a potty accident or clothing getting wet – which you can use after class if needed.

IMPORTANT: An up to date health form is required for children to attend our classes.

If your child has any allergies, any other medical conditions, or is taking any medication, please make sure to let us know in writing via our email address. Once we receive this information, we will send an additional permission form to parents of children who need to carry an allergy action plan.