Temporary closed Kids Temple

A forest-school inspired space for ages 2–10, on the sacred land of Essência.

What the Kids Temple Is A forest, not a classroom

Our Kids Temple is currently not open for externals
We are currently in the process of restructuring and let you soon know about the updated Kids Temple.
The covered space and outdoor playground remain available for families and children to use.

The Kids Temple embraces a Forest School ethos: nature as the classroom, and play as the way in. Every day is shaped around games and activities that awaken a child's social, physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual sides — with plenty of room to simply follow their own curiosity. It exists for the children of residents, neighbors and guests alike, and for the parents who come with them.

Purpose

An inspiring space to awaken children to their full potential — and a way for more guests and lightworkers to come, knowing their kids are cared for.

Vision

Children welcomed into nature for a holistic, playful education — blossoming freely, while parents relax and share some time and skills in return.

Mission

An accessible, safe, inspiring space for children's and parents' growth in nature — building self-awareness, self-regulation, social skills and empathy.

Follow Along @kidstemple_essencia

Our Ethics Six ways children grow here

Beyond safety rules, children are never obliged to follow an activity at a given time — they're free to follow their bliss and curiosity until they're ready to join in.

Nature

Seeding, planting, growing, animal observation, eco constructions, land art.

Play

Games, ropes, swings, balls, circus.

Communicate

Social skills, compassion, empathy, sharing, expressing needs and boundaries, storytelling.

Blossom

Meditation, confidence, concentration, senses, belonging, arts and crafts.

Moving

Dancing, singing, kids & acro yoga, qigong, nature hikes, beach play & swimming.

Be Alive

Freedom, exploration, celebration, wonder, presence, gratitude.

What's already there

Even over the summer break, families are welcome to enjoy:

  • 1 dome (indoor space)

  • 1 temple tent (shaded, outdoor)

  • 1 natural pond

  • 1 juice bar & 1 kitchen

  • 1 playground with trampoline and swings

  • Shower and toilets on site

  • A forest tea room chill space for parents

The previous rhythm

  • Monday – Friday, 10:30am – 3pm

  • Ages 2 – 10

  • Music & movement, nature exploration & building, crafting & drawing

  • Thursday gardening & Portuguese class woven in

  • Organic snack & vegan lunch included; parents welcome to join Community Lunch for €8

  • Thursdays close with the Forest SPA — €20/person, free for kids in the program

  • English, German & Dutch spoken

  • One day a month set aside for parents to connect on holistic education and their child's individual growth

Parents are welcome to join

Parents are encouraged to spend a day a month — or more — in service of the temple and the children: assisting the facilitator, observing, sharing knowledge, offering a workshop, or helping build something for the space.

These contributions help keep the program affordable, and make it richer for everyone.

What to bring

Outdoor shoes & clothes, a hat, organic sun screen, swimming costume & gear, a rain coat, a warm jacket, a water bottle, and fruits or snacks.

Stay Connected Let's keep in touch.

Questions, or want to be notified when the Kids Temple reopens?
We read every message.

And if you'd love to get involved in shaping what's next here — we'd love to hear that too.