How 'outdoorsy' is Burgundy Farm?

[Anonymous]

We like the 'culture' of the school, but don't know if our dc is so into the out of doors to really fit. How much time do they really spend outside there? We are currently in a preschool that has 3 recesses per day, and our dc is not liking it.

[Anonymous]

I have known a few kids who went and who currently go to Burgundy. I can't speak to the daily schedule but the setup of the campus is so that the kids do go outside frequently. They also spend a few days each fall and spring at their outdoor campus in W. VA. My DS would LOVE 3 recesses a day!

[Anonymous]

Former Burgundy family here. I would define "outdoorsy" in several ways: 1. Spread-out campus (former farm) where kids travel from building to building for classes. Buldings, for the most part, have lots of glass so you feel you are outside. Buildings set in woods for the most part. 2. Some activities, but not all, where kids get outside, including recess. In MS, it means simply hanging out on the terrace. Campus also has stream and working barn with animals. 3. Fall and spring trips to the WVA campus for classes. The Cove rather resembles a summer sleepaway camp situation with open-air cabins and a rustic setting. Required of one parent each to attend when kids are young. The younger kids especially like going there.

I would say that the outdoorsy experience is more quick hits rather than extended time outside. Our child is at another school now where he spends more time outside on a daily basis - but due to sports.

[Anonymous]

The younger kids especially like going there.

I disagree with this statement if it gives the impression that older kids don't like the Cove as much as younger kids. Our middle school children absolutely adore the Cove. Many Burgundy graduates continue to go to the Cove -- one high schooler neighbor of ours recently went back to participate in an annual bird observation weekend for the Audubon Society. And many go on to serve as summer camp counselors there.

[Anonymous]

My kid is in MS there and along with his friends, no longer looks forward to the Cove as much as he did. Not to say that there are those who like it but overall, a general decline in their enthusiasm as they get older. They do talk about how the "Colonial Experience" (period costumes and latrine-digging) was a turning point.

You're always going to have those who enjoy something and those who don't. Teens are always going to be more jaded than the younger set. At least they like the Cove more than their parents do!

[Anonymous]

Cove-loving parent here.

[Anonymous]

The Cove is most definitely a high dose of "outdoorsyness"!!! And I agree that most of the kids love it and the parents endure ... it is a lovely place and such a neat educational opportunity for the kids to do hands on science and nature study. But it can be cold and wet and sometimes both.

As for the Alexandria campus, I agree with pp 5:54 ... beautiful outdoor spaces attached to and surrounding all classrooms, lots of recess, lots of opportunities to run outside as a part of going to specials each day, but most time still spent inside a classroom. Lots of recess in early childhood years. The swimming pool is heated. A lovely place ... most children really love the outside aspects to the place!

[Anonymous]

I'm 5:54 poster and just wanted to add that the typical Burgundy kid is not a rugged "mountain kid" who lives in the outdoors - if that is what OP fears. They are normal kids for the most part who simply have varying degrees of interest in being outside. Early years have the usual - playgrounds, swing sets, sand boxes, etc. Ironically, gym classes tend to be held more inside than outside.

The best part maybe for your daughter is to have a feeling of being outside while being inside in sunny classrooms.

[Anonymous]

My kid is in JK - they go out a lot. If your child does not like playing outdoors, he won't have much fun. Even if the current weather they are out (which btw I am ok with).

[Anonymous]

I have an older child who spent many years at Burgundy. Now at another school, I really cannot see a difference in outdoor time between the two schools. Honestly, I think pretty much all schools give about the same amount of time outside.

OP, as your child gets older, s/he will want to go out more as it is a time for social bonding. I really wouldn't put much weight into the preferences of a 4 or 5 year old. They will change quickly.

[Anonymous]

OP-
Does you child actually dislike being outdoors, or is s/he uncomfortable in what feels like a noisy, less structured rambunctious environment? Burgundy kids are encouraged to be outside, and outdoor playtime is good for kids. As others pointed out, starting in second grade there is a morning break that is not long, and a break after lunch. When it fits, classes are sometimes outside. Most kids are outside unless it is pouring rain or freezing. Some kids opt for quiet chats under trees or "games" (imagination games like acting out scenarios) with friends. Some go for more sporty activities. Kindergarten and first grade do spend time out side, some is structured learning activity time, some is playtime. There are quieter options though.

Maybe it pays to see what part of recess s/he doesn't like.

[Anonymous]

17:13 again. My daughter (elementary age) loves being outside, but usually steers clear of the boys & sports scene.