OUR STORY
About The Barnyard Classroom
Welcome to The Barnyard Classroom, where children learn, explore, and connect with nature in a hands-on farm environment! Our farm school is dedicated to teaching kids about animals, agriculture, and where their food comes from, all through engaging, interactive experiences.
ABOUT OUR FOUNDER
The Barnyard Classroom grew from a quiet seed planted in the heart of Krysta Summerfield-Lopez—a mother, former TDSB educator, and Ontario Certified Teacher—who, upon welcoming her own daughter into the world, began to see learning not as a series of lessons, but as a living journey.
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Rooted in the Waldorf spirit of nurturing the sacred unfolding of childhood, Krysta’s path shifted from traditional classrooms to a more soulful way of teaching—one that honours the rhythms of nature, the beauty of the seasons, and the deep wisdom found in hands-on, heart-led experiences.
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She and her family left the fast pace of the city behind, choosing instead the gentle hum of rural life. On their 5 acre homestead, they embraced a slower rhythm—one where mornings begin with song and story, where learning happens barefoot in the garden, and where children are invited to explore, imagine, and grow in harmony with the natural world.
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The Barnyard Classroom is an extension of this vision—a space where childhood is protected, wonder is nurtured, and learning is rooted in real, meaningful experiences. Whether it's gathering eggs from the chicken coop, weaving wool from the sheep, or journaling beneath the trees, children are guided gently, with warmth and intention.
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Krysta and her family are honoured to open their gates to like-minded families seeking connection—to the earth, to their children, and to the magic that unfolds when we learn together in community.
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Welcome to The Barnyard Classroom—a place where learning feels like home.
WHAT WE OFFER
At The Barnyard Classroom, children don’t just observe—they participate! From feeding animals and collecting eggs to planting vegetables and making jam, every lesson is designed to be interactive and educational. Our programs include:
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Farm School Classes – Hands-on lessons about farming, food production, and animal care.
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Field Trips – Engaging visits for schools, homeschool groups, and organizations.
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Seasonal Camps – Special programs during school breaks that immerse children in farm life.
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Birthday Parties & Events – Unique farm experiences for special occasions.​
OUR DAILY RHYTHM
Mornings at The Barnyard Classroom are all about movement and connection—children start the day outside, caring for and interacting with the animals. This fosters responsibility, empathy, and a deep appreciation for nature. In the afternoons, we shift focus to academics, seamlessly integrating lessons with farm life. Our academic approach follows the Montessori method, which emphasizes hands-on, self-directed learning, allowing children to explore concepts at their own pace and develop a love for discovery.
ACADEMICS ON THE FARM
Our Montessori-style learning approach encourages children to engage deeply with subjects through exploration and practical application. We cover core subjects, including:
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Foundations of Reading & Writing – Encouraging literacy through storytelling, journaling, and farm-related activities.
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Math – Using hands-on activities like measuring feed, counting eggs, and managing simple farm-related finances.
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Science & Engineering – Exploring biology through animal care, understanding ecosystems, and engaging in farm-based engineering projects like building structures or irrigation systems.
WHY CHOOSE FARM SCHOOL?
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Hands-on Learning – Kids actively engage with nature and farm life.
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Small Group Experiences – Personalized attention in a safe, welcoming environment.
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Fun & Educational – Learning feels like an adventure on the farm!
Join us at The Barnyard Classroom and let’s cultivate curiosity, connection, and a love for the land together.
For more information, visit our Contact Page to schedule a visit or enroll in a program today!