What Our Families Say
At Hidden Valley Forest School, our families are at the heart of everything we do. Their words tell the story of our community—how children grow, learn, and thrive here. Below, you’ll find reflections from parents who have experienced firsthand the difference our nature-based, small-scale approach makes in their child’s education
As we enter our 3rd year at HVFS, we have been honored to be a part of the HVFS community. We love how nurturing and supportive it has been for our child and family. It’s inspiring to see how much our little one has learned and gained in his pre-K and kindergarten years, all while exploring in nature. With the schoolhouse providing shelter and a traditional classroom, it’s the best of both worlds for our child. Our child enjoys the small classroom size because it’s easier to absorb the curriculum, build peer connections, and spark interest in all subject matters. As a parent at HVFS, it’s comforting to know that our child is benefiting emotionally, physically, and academically all in one school environment. HVFS provides a true and positive connection with peers, teachers, and attending families that has fulfilled our expectations of a true school community experience.
- CF & MF, parents of a 6 year old
“He had such a great experience at Hidden Valley! I’m so happy with how much more social and confident he has become since attending your school. You’ve got a really wonderful program there and I’m a big believer in your work.”
— BB
“‘Mushroom!’ is a word that I often hear exclaimed by W as we walk through the woods now. Since beginning at HVFS, his outdoor knowledge and comfortability in nature has grown immensely, and I continue to learn things from my [son] whenever we are outside. Not only has our relationship with the outdoors grown while being cared for by Bianca, or “Miss Anca” as we like to call her, but we have also become a part of the community which Bianca’s family provides. From outdoor play, to mixed-aged play groups, to self-led learning, to muddy clothes, we couldn’t be happier about what HVFS has offered us and how we continue to learn each day.”
- CS
“Since starting B at Hidden Valley we have seen his world explode. He has shown excitement and engagement in school and constantly shares his knowledge with everyone. He has learned better spatial awareness and his confidence has skyrocketed.
He is encouraged to use his leadership skills and has learned to play harmoniously with his peers. Ms. Bianca and her school are magical and a great place for any child but especially boys! We couldn’t be happier we found her!”
— AG
“I knew I would love the Hidden Valley program as soon as I met Bianca and saw her unique and beautiful property. Thankfully, P is as happy with his school experience as I was hoping he would be. What impresses me the most is that he’s excited to go to school EVERY school day, and his deeper engagement with nature and desire to share it with us is powerful. Creeking, mud sliding, hiking, finding fox dens and mushrooms of all kinds—crafts and cozy tea times with friends—these are perfect days for children. Bianca’s child-led approach allows the kids so much freedom within a predictable rhythm, and she clearly loves learning right alongside them. A warm teacher who understands children and a truly magical setting. What a special place!”
- PS