At SFNA, children learn through play, exploration, and discovery in nature. We encourage curiosity, creativity, physical activity, and environmental stewardship as learning is integrated into nature-based experiences like climbing, digging, and observing wildlife. SFNA aims to foster holistic development—social, emotional, cognitive, and physical—through meaningful outdoor play and discovery. If your child has apprehensions about “getting dirty” while playing outside, please know that some kids start that way but usually grow comfortable as they see peers having fun and learn that dirt washes off but memories last.
SFNA is a fully outdoor, all-weather, drop-off program for fully potty-trained children between the ages of 3 and 8 (as of September 1 of the relevant academic year). We are currently in the 2025-2026 academic year, so your child must be between the ages of 3 & 8 as of 9/1/25.
Our program will begin in January 2026 and run through the end of May 2026. **Beginning in the upcoming academic year (September 2026 through May 2027), we will start up again and enroll for the full academic year. Enrollment is a commitment for the academic year. **More information and additional details will be made available here in the near future.**
Parents get to choose which days of the week their child(ren) will attend the program. Whatever schedule that parents choose at registration will remain consistent for the entire academic year. The program is offered 9 AM to 2 PM Monday – Friday during the months of September – May. Our teaching ratio is no more than 10:1.
SFNA qualifies as a private educational facility and is not licensed by the State of Texas.
Hello.
Inspired by our namesake, the patron saint of animals, the environment, and peace, St. Francis Nature Academy invites young children to explore the natural world with wonder, respect, and joy. Through hands-on outdoor activities, nature hikes, environmental learning, and creative play, children in our program develop a deeper appreciation for Mother Earth, including respect for the environment and the importance of caring for all living things.
Ms. Anne is the Founder and Program Director. She has spent nearly two decades working with children in youth programs. Ms. Anne has two adult daughters and one granddaughter. A nature lover from the start, she has lived and played in the Whispering Pines that are home to St. Francis Nature Academy since the mid-1970s.
Contact
Please feel free to email or call Ms. Anne with any questions.
512-999-4266