Program Elements
Members may take advantage of Apple Tree services and space in ways that work for them. We are flexible, and Apple Tree exists to meet families’ needs that are not being met elsewhere. We do a one-on-one orientation with each member to ensure needs are well met. Following are many of the services and activities we offer.
Meals & Snacks
At Apple Tree we like to eat well! Snacks are available throughout the day. When we have breakfast or lunch kids are encouraged to help in preparation. Variety is a keyword, and we strive to have something a little different every day. We are sensitive to allergies and the dietary needs of our members. Parents and children are asked to make us aware of any allergies or sensitivities so that we can properly accommodate these needs.
Field Trips
A 10-minute walk away, we have a large park with two baseball fields, tennis courts, and a playground with slides, monkey bars, and other equipment. We go there to play kickball and soccer, play with gliders and other flying things, and sometimes just sit in the sun and snack. Trips to the park usually give us a couple of hours of outdoor time when the weather is good. We look forward to adding field trips or other off-campus adventures. These will be announced to parents and youth as plans develop.
Gross Motor Activities
Even when the weather is bad, kids still need to move. Apple Tree is fortunate in having extra space for our kids. There are several large open areas that we use for gross motor activities.
Activities like Obstacle Courses, Musical Chairs, Dance Parties, Freeze Tag, and Yoga offer kids the opportunity to move and play at the same time. We also include a number of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) games, which are physical and help our members relate with one another.​
Critter Care
Apple Tree is the proud home of various cool critters at any given time. We've cared for and bred walking sticks, caterpillars, praying mantises, bearded dragons, and steelhead trout. We love exploring nature and watching things grow. Feeding and caring for our animals teaches empathy and gives our members the opportunity to bond with living creatures in a unique and relaxing way.
Computer Lab
Many families struggle with finding a balance between limiting screen time and giving their kids the opportunity to develop technological skills and enjoy their favorite games. At Apple Tree we encourage our members to do non-screen activities first, then enjoy computer-related activities such as drawing programs, 3D printing, programming, and Lego robotics. In addition, our members also love limited gaming opportunities with their friends, usually in Minecraft. Our computers are always available as tools for homework, online learning, and special projects.
Games
We love all kinds of games. Sorry, Monopoly, and Uno are everyday favoritesBoard games like Sorry or Monopoly, card games like Uno or War, word games like Scattergories, imagination games like Dixit, balance games like Jenga or Suspend, Charades. We can spend hours sitting around the table playing games.
Arts & Crafts
We have a full art studio, paints and brushes, craft supplies, beads, fabric, origami and more. We also have basic hand tools; screwdrivers, wrenches, hammers, drills and saws.
Gardening
Plant seeds, water plants indoors and out, paint flower pots, watch things grow, eat them. We even have plans to make a worm farm and learn about composting!
Music
Our Quiet Room isn’t always so quiet when we get the keyboard, piano, guitars, and drums going! Talk to us if you want music lessons!