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Barnyard Buddies @ The Scoop at Willow Oaks

Nestled in the heart of Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, Willow Oak Farms offers a delightful blend of agricultural education and family-friendly activities. At the center of this experience is The Scoop! @ Willow Oak Farms, a family-owned and operated full-service ice cream shop located on a working farm. Established in 2020, The Scoop! provides a variety of ice cream flavors, handspun milkshakes, and specialty sundaes, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a sweet treat amidst the beauty of the farm.

Complementing the ice cream shop is the Barnyard Buddies program, a series of parent-child interactive classes designed for children aged 1-5. These 45-minute sessions, held once a week over five consecutive weeks, immerse young learners in farm life through stories, activities, crafts, and hands-on animal interactions. Each week introduces a new theme, allowing children to engage with various farm animals and participate in unique farm activities.

Barnyard Buddies preschool classes are nature-based, allowing children to learn through curiosity and play while using the environment as a natural learning tool. Outdoor play fosters creativity, confidence, and the ability to assess risks, while also promoting sensory engagement and physical development. Classes take place outdoors on the farm every day, regardless of the weather, providing firsthand exposure to changing seasons and shifting conditions throughout the year. Children will experience various weather elements, including sunshine, rain, and even snow. Hands-on farm activities help build self-confidence, independence, and a deeper connection to nature. While most classes are teacher-directed, free exploration is also encouraged.
Classes offered –

  • Little Farmers 
    • Ages 1-5 years old
    • Same curriculum every session
    • 10:00am -10:45am 
    • 45 min, depending on children’s interest
  • Fall/Spring on the Farm!
    • Ages 1-5 years old
    • Curriculum changes each season, Fall & Spring
    • 10:00am – 10:45am
    • 45 min, depending on children’s interest

The Barnyard Play Area further enhances the farm experience with its farm-themed open-air play space. Children can role-play in interactive zones such as the Construction Zone, Farmer’s Market, Pet Clinic, and Sprinkle Pit. This area encourages imaginative play and offers a fun, educational environment for kids to explore.

For families seeking a unique blend of education, recreation, and delicious treats, Willow Oak Farms provides an unforgettable experience that delights both children and adults alike.