BNC is an outdoor learning commons in New Haven, CT, rooted in consent, care, and interdependence.
We've been gathering at Edgerton Park since 2023 with families who believe children already know how to lead.

We're practicing that belief together, outside, year-round.

We believe that separation from nature is taught, and that every child has the right to grow up in reciprocal relationship with their living world. Our sliding-scale Equity Model and neighborhood-based programs remove barriers to outdoor learning and center children's voices.

Our practice is grounded in children's liberation and sovereignty, and the belief that all beings deserve dignity, autonomy, and care. We work toward futures where justice and ecological thriving are inseparable.

🌞 SUMMER AT BNC IS HERE!! 🌿
Six magical pop-up days at Edgerton Park. Six themes. Six incredible community partners. One unforgettable summer.

Join us Fridays, July 3 – August 7 from 9-11AM for six FREE mornings of building, foraging, splashing, dancing, hiking, and discovering 🌈 for kids and their caregivers.

Each pop-up welcomes a special guest from our community, and a loose theme, where children will explore their relationships with each other, the land, water, and animal neighbors, community and more! But the real magic? These days are led by the kids: their wonder, their questions, their big ideas.

BNC Summer Pop-ups

We are hosting six magical pop-up days at Edgerton Park. Each welcomes a special guest from our community, and a loose theme, where children will explore their relationships with each other, the land, and themselves.

Team Members