Find Your People.
Build Your Community.
The transition into becoming a parent or caretaker is not always easy, and sometimes it can feel like a lot to carry. Whether you are dealing with overwhelm, adjustment to parenting, or perhaps simply want to connect with other families on a regular bases, Forest Collective offers a structure for you to connect, share and build a community around you that is supportive, encouraging and fun.
Balance
The mothers in the Forest Collective navigate the complexities of full lives, balancing childcare, household responsibilities, and the many demands of daily life. Integrating the Forest Collective into their routines requires thoughtful consideration—a delicate balance of avoiding overcommitment while making space for something that brings joy, connection, and fulfillment.
At Nature Song, we delve into this challenge as part of a broader conversation. How have shifts in modern society fueled feelings of overwhelm and isolation, particularly for mothers? What societal changes have contributed to these emotions, and how can we intentionally choose a different path? We believe that fostering community connections, where individuals purposefully focus on building meaningful relationships, can offer a transformative alternative.
Developing Community Through Pods
Pods are groups of 4 to 6 families who meet weekly together outdoors. First with Amy Rupp as the coordinator and guide and then as a self-run pod of families. What starts as a meet-up, over time grows into a community that provides support, shares helpful information, and intentionally puts in the time for life-long friendships to be developed.
After the first month or so of meeting, it is common for pods to meet not only during their weekly, outdoor time but other times throughout the week. This is where mutual support starts to happen!
Details:
The location, day, and time for each pod will be decided based on what works best for the participants. If you’re interested in joining, please share your availability and preferred location—this helps Amy coordinate and create pods that fit everyone’s needs.
Cost: $100 - This payment includes your Forest Collective membership and helps support much more than just the meetup. It goes towards covering the coordination, planning, and resources needed to create a vibrant and sustainable community. Your contribution also helps fund seasonal celebrations, community-building activities, and ensures the continued growth of this initiative. This fee is an investment in the collective effort to nurture lasting connections and shared experiences for all.
Meetups are 1.5 hours in length - Once a week
Types of Pods:
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Families of children newborn to 8 months
Caregiver Focus
This pod’s focus is on building networks of support and exploring topics that support a caretakers transition into parenting. -
Families of children prominently between the ages of 8 months to 5 years old.
Play Focus
The big idea is to get out and learn, play, explore, and have fun with others! Think group games, berry picking, adult dialog, and much more with these pods. -
Homeschooling families with children between the ages 5 to 7
Academic and Play Focus
The focus is centered around exploring academics through hands-on activities, journaling, games and a routine using nature as an important element. In addition to parent meetups there is a weekly enrichment drop-off program.
Community Gatherings
At Seedling School, shared celebrations, mother meetups, and family gatherings are the heartbeat of the community. Throughout the year, we come together to honor the changing seasons, milestones, and the rhythms of life.
These gatherings, whether around a cozy winter circle or a summer picnic under the trees, strengthen bonds, foster belonging, and create lasting memories that weave the fabric of our community.
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The Forest Collective is a vibrant community where parents build meaningful connections through shared experiences, mutual support, and opportunities for growth. Throughout the year, members come together for activities that strengthen bonds and create a sense of belonging.
Here’s a glimpse into what we do:
Brunch: Mothers gather at local restaurants, enjoying good food, drinks, and conversation. These gatherings provide a chance to unwind, laugh, and connect with others in the Forest Collective.
Workshops: Learn and grow together during parenting workshops led by skilled local coaches. These sessions provide practical tools and fresh perspectives to support family life.
Outdoor Adventures: Adults and children enjoy opportunities to connect in nature through activities like hiking, biking, or climbing. These outings are designed to nurture both friendships and a sense of adventure.
Potlucks: Families share meals and stories at community potlucks, fostering deeper connections and celebrating the richness of shared experiences.
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Autumn Day Retreat for Moms
Moms gather for a relaxing day of connection and renewal. The retreat includes a Mother Nature circle to share reflections, meaningful conversations, a rejuvenating sauna session, and delicious seasonal food. The day is filled with warmth, laughter, and moments to unwind in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Pumpkin Village:
A whimsical display of carved pumpkins transformed into charming gnome homes, complete with handmade miniatures. This enchanting project could be a Big Pod activity, bringing everyone together to create and set up the magical village.Lantern Walk:
Families gather a week before the event to craft lanterns and learn songs for the walk. On the evening of the event, everyone meets to stroll a designated loop, singing together and enjoying the glow of lantern light. The evening could end with a potluck or bonfire to share warmth and connection.
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Solstice Spiral
The Big Pod sets up a spiral, either traced from footprints in the snow or crafted from greenery sourced from Christmas trees. Each pod visits the spiral one evening, and children take turns walking toward the center to light their candles. The idea of placing this spiral hidden in the woods adds a sense of wonder, inviting discovery and use through word of mouth. -
Bunny Nest:
Children collaborate to create a large, cozy nest for the Easter Bunny. The following week, a parent secretly fills the nest with special treats, delighting the kids with a magical surprise.Valentine’s Tea
A heartwarming celebration for moms and kids to share together. Families gather for a delightful tea party. Moms can enjoy meaningful conversations while children play and create, making it a memorable day filled with love, laughter, and connection.May Day:
Families gather to welcome the arrival of summer by crafting flower crowns and decorative wands. The celebration includes joyful group games, songs, and a shared sense of seasonal renewal.
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Family Camp
An annual gathering at Eklutna Lake, where families come together to create lasting memories. Activities could include group games that bring adults and kids together, a talent show featuring performances by all ages, singing and storytelling around the campfire, and plenty of time to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The possibilities are endless for fun, connection, and shared adventures!
Agreements and Community Culture
Central to our culture are clear agreements that guide our interactions. We honor the unique contributions of each member, celebrate growth in all its forms, and prioritize emotional and social wellness. Through intentional practices like group check-ins, gift exchanges, and shared traditions, we cultivate a sense of stewardship and connection—to each other, the land, and the greater community we serve.
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Gathering in the same places, like local parks, offers children the opportunity to develop a sense of ownership and belonging. When they visit these spaces regularly, they start to see these parks as their woods, a personal adventure land where they can explore, learn, and grow. Each visit becomes part of an ongoing story, reinforcing their sense of place and belonging.
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In every pod except the Kindergarten Pod, parents commit to meeting for a minimum of six weeks with Amy Rupp as their facilitator and coordinator.
This commitment is key to building relationships, establishing a gathering rhythm, and determining if a nature-based pod is a good fit for your family. The shared commitment to showing up at a set time and place builds trust within the community and strengthens connections, making life feel more predictable and supportive.
After the initial six weeks participation fosters a sense of belonging and connection, and creating a stronger support network where families can rely on each other and build lasting bonds.
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Forest Collective is a project focused on developing strong social structures. Together, we will dive into understanding how groups function, with an emphasis on building healthy, supportive communities. In the first 6 to 8 weeks of pod formation, we will explore key areas including:
Decision-making and power dynamics
Sharing and receiving feedback
Navigating leaving a pod
Understanding and supporting children’s behavior and needs
Working through conflict
The process of reflection and growth
Building an “ecosystem of purpose”—dreaming into what we can create together as a community
This process is designed to foster intentional relationships, a deeper sense of connection, and the creation of a thriving, collaborative learning environment.
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When pods first form, parents help support Amy’s time, energy, and the growth of this community by contributing financially.
After the first six weeks, the exchange becomes a shared commitment to:
Stay engaged and participate regularly in your pod
Communicate through a WhatsApp group to share feedback, ask questions, and stay connected
Contribute ideas for activities and adventures
Help organize seasonal celebrations for the whole Forest community
This is a co-created experience where everyone’s involvement matters. It’s not about others doing things for you—it’s about coming together, contributing, and growing as a community.
