faq's + support

GENERAL QUESTIONS:

1) What is the Painted Oak Project?

the Painted Oak Project is the next chapter in the story of Painted Oak Nature School on a mission to reimagine education by integrating more opportunities for interaction with nature and for self-directed exploration to encourage a healthier vision of learning and to restore childhood.

2) Who is behind the Project?

the Painted Oak Project is the next brainchild of innovative educator Nicole Langdo. Nicole was an educator in both public and private educational settings for over a decade before founding Painted Oak Nature School as a respite for families and children from traditional, structured models of education. Nicole has additionally homeschooled her two teenagers through their high school years and she holds a Master's degree in Education.

3) How does the Painted Oak Approach™ differ from traditional education?

the Painted Oak Approach™ reimagines education by shifting learning beyond the four walls of a classroom and into the natural world. Unlike traditional education, which often relies on rigid schedules, standardized curricula, and passive instruction, The Painted Oak Approach™ embraces child-led, experiential learning driven by curiosity, play, and hands-on exploration. Rooted in outdoor education, self-directed learning, and community engagement, this model prioritizes critical thinking, creativity, and a deep connection to nature. By fostering autonomy and adaptability, The Painted Oak Approach™ empowers children to become lifelong learners who thrive beyond the confines of conventional schooling.

for EDUCATORS + SCHOOLS:

4) How can my school integrate more outdoor learning?

the Painted Oak Project offers resources, mentorship, and coaching to support and guide you through this process. Whether you are wanting to bring more nature into your classroom, or looking for opportunities to take your students outside, the Project is here to help you!

5) Do you offer professional development for teachers?

Yes! Check out our Training + Certification page for the catalog of our services.

6) Can you help us transition to an outdoor learning model?

Absolutely! Nothing brings us more joy than getting more children out in the wild - playing, exploring, questioning, driving their own learning.

7) Are your consulting services only for private schools?

No. We offer consulting services to a wide range of educational settings, including public schools, nature schools, homeschool groups, child care centers, families, libraries...you name it! Anywhere children roam, we have ideas to help you embrace the wild.

for HOMESCHOOLING FAMILIES:

8) How can the Painted Oak Project support my homeschooling journey?

the Painted Oak Project supports homeschooling families in elevating their unique approach by providing expert guidance on outdoor learning, child-led exploration, and hands-on education. Through personalized mentorship, resources, and community-building, we help families deepen their commitment to nature-based, self-directed learning while fostering curiosity, creativity, and independence in their children.

9) Do you offer resources for parents who want to implement outdoor learning at home?

Yes! Not only can the Project provide resources and research for you, we can connect you with other like-minded people through our network of clients so that you can support and encourage each other to continue doing this important work.

PROGRAMS + SERVICES:

10) What types of programs do you offer?

the Painted Oak Project offers educational consulting, teacher training, homeschool support, and advocacy.

11) Do you work with individual educators or only schools?

We would be happy to provide support and strategies to individuals looking for ways to integrate more nature into their learning spaces and curriculum.

12) Do you provide in-person or virtual support?

While we prefer working with others in-person, we are happy to connect virtually if time or location is a factor.

13) How much do your services cost?

The process of working together begins with a 15-30 minute free consultation to better understand what has brought you to the Project. Then we would discuss the service(s) that we can provide within our general pricing structure, or customize a quote based on your specific needs.

GETTING INVOLVED:

14) How can I collaborate with the Painted Oak Project?

We welcome others to join us with ideas and positive energy to add momentum to the Project! Possibilities include:

Educational Partnerships – Schools, libraries, and community groups can work with us to integrate outdoor learning into their programs through training, workshops, or curriculum development.
Sponsorships & Grants – Businesses and organizations can support our mission by funding initiatives, providing resources, or sponsoring events that promote nature-based education.
Guest Experts & Educators – Naturalists, artists, scientists, and educators can contribute by leading workshops, sharing expertise, or creating unique outdoor learning experiences for children and families.
Homeschool & Parent Networks – Families can collaborate by forming co-ops, hosting nature-based meetups, or partnering with us to expand outdoor learning opportunities for homeschoolers.
Advocacy & Awareness – Supporters can help spread the word about our mission by sharing stories, writing about outdoor education, or working on policy initiatives that promote alternative learning models.

15) Do you offer internships or volunteer opportunities?

Yes! Individuals passionate about education, the outdoors and blending the two in the name of restoring a healthy childhood are welcome to assist with programming, research, or community outreach efforts.