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Classes for Preschool
& Elementary

Our classes for younger kids are full of hands-on fun, animal adventures, and age-appropriate learning! Each week, little ones meet a new animal ambassador and explore their unique traits—like a goat’s super-wide vision or a pony’s speedy gallop. Designed for preschool and lower elementary students, these classes spark curiosity, build empathy, and connect kids to the natural world in a playful, engaging way.

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Welcome to Barnyard Buddies, a joyful weekly class set in the heart of Stardust Sanctuary. This unique farm-based program blends kindness, science, movement, and animal connection into one magical evening.
 

Each 60-minute session is thoughtfully structured to nurture both hearts and minds:


🧡 Circle Time & Storytelling (10 min)
We begin each class in a cozy circle with a story centered on kindness, empathy, and friendship — planting the seeds for emotional intelligence and social growth.
💪 Farm-Fit Movement (10 min)
Get those wiggles out with playful farm-themed exercises or obstacle course adventures that build coordination and confidence.
🔬 Little Scientists (15 min)
Explore big ideas in little ways — from discovering simple machines used around the barn to investigating how seeds grow. Each week features a hands-on science concept tailored just for preschool minds.
🐐 Animal Encounters (20 min)
Spend time with our friendly animal ambassadors! Children will gently interact with goats, ponies, chickens, and more, learning about animal care, compassion, and respect for all living beings.
🌈 Playground Time (10–15 min)
We wrap up with outdoor play and exploration, where imagination, laughter, and friendships blossom.

Class is held weekly on Thursdays from 5-6 PM

Image by Jessica Rockowitz

Once Upon a Barn:
A Dramatic Play & Storytelling Class for Little Animal Lovers

Once Upon a Barn is a theatrical adventure for children who love to dress up, pretend, and bring stories to life. Set on the farm, this class uses imaginative play and interactive storytelling to spark creativity, confidence, and cooperation.


Each week, children will become characters in a new farm-themed story. One week they might be mischievous goats sneaking into the garden, the next, brave chickens rescuing a lost egg. Using costumes, props, animal movements, and outdoor “sets,” kids will act, problem-solve, and play together — no stage required!


🎭 Each session includes:


📚 Story Circle: An interactive tale told with voices, puppets, and props


🦙 Dramatic Play: Kids take on character roles in the story


🎩 Dress-Up & Imagination Stations


🌾 Story-Based Exploration: Dig in the “garden,” fix the “tractor,” or rescue “lost animals”


🎨 Optional craft prop (e.g., animal masks, capes, or story stones)


The focus is on participation, not performance — just lots of joy, laughter, and creativity.

Class is held weekly on Mondays from 4:30-5:30 PM

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Calling all future animal doctors! Our Young Veterinarian’s Class is designed especially for curious kids who love animals and want to learn how to care for them. Through hands-on activities, engaging lessons, and up-close experiences with real animals at Stardust Sanctuary, students will explore basic animal care, anatomy, health checks, and more.

Geared toward younger learners, this class is a gentle introduction to veterinary science—made even more special with guest appearances from our older Sanctuary Stewards, who help lead lessons and mentor our youngest animal helpers.

Perfect for budding vets, animal lovers, and future stewards of the sanctuary!

This class is on Wednesdays at 4:30-5:30 PM

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Ready to Sign Up?

Please complete this form to register for the class 

Class of Interest:
I would like to add an additional monthly donation to help with care, veterinary bills and other needs of the sanctuary.
$10
$20
$30

Stardust Sanctuary Photo & Video Release Form

To help share the magic of Stardust Sanctuary with our community, we love to capture photos and videos of our classes, animals, and activities. With your permission, we may use these images for educational, promotional, or social media purposes.

I grant permission for Stardust Sanctuary to:

  • Take photographs and video recordings of my child (or myself, if over 18) during classes, events, or visits.

  • Use these images in:

    • Social media posts

    • Website galleries

    • Printed materials (flyers, brochures, newsletters)

    • Press releases or news coverage

    • Educational and promotional videos

Stardust Sanctuary agrees to:

  • Never sell or share your images with third parties for unrelated commercial use.

  • Never include personal identifying information (such as full names or contact details) without additional permission.

Photo/Video Release

Stardust Sanctuary Code of Conduct

Creating a safe, kind, and magical space for all students, animals, and staff.

To make sure every student has a fun, respectful, and safe experience during classes at Stardust Sanctuary, all participants are expected to follow this Code of Conduct. By attending our classes, you agree to the following:


🧍‍♀️ Respect for People

  • Be kind, inclusive, and encouraging to your fellow students.

  • Listen when others are speaking — that includes teachers, volunteers, and your peers.

  • Use appropriate language and behavior at all times.

  • Keep your hands, feet, and words respectful — no bullying, teasing, or physical harm of any kind.


🐴 Respect for Animals

  • Treat all animals with calmness, gentleness, and care.

  • Follow all safety instructions from staff when interacting with animals.

  • Never feed, chase, or handle animals without permission.

  • Remember: animals are our partners, not our tools.


🏡 Respect for the Sanctuary

  • Walk, don’t run, in the barn or near animals.

  • Always wear closed-toed shoes and dress appropriately for outdoor activities.

  • Stay in designated class areas unless you have permission to explore.

  • Clean up after yourself and help keep the Sanctuary clean and beautiful.


⏰ Responsibility

  • Arrive on time and ready to participate.

  • Stay focused during class activities and give your best effort.

  • Let a staff member know if you need help, feel unwell, or see something unsafe.

  • Electronics should stay in backpacks unless part of the lesson.


🛑 Consequences for Unsafe or Unkind Behavior

We believe in second chances and learning from mistakes. However, if behavior continues to be unsafe, disrespectful, or disruptive, the following steps may be taken:

  1. A verbal reminder or redirection.

  2. A discussion with a parent/guardian.

  3. Temporary or permanent removal from the class without refund.


We’re all in this together — when we follow the Code of Conduct, we create a safe, inspiring place where every person and animal can shine. ✨

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1100 Russelmann Park Rd. Clayton, CA 94517

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