TERRA Associação de Educação Integral do Minho

TERRA - Associação de Educação Integral do Minho is a non-profit organisation founded in June 2016 by a group of families and friends in Alvarães, Viana do Castelo, in northern Portugal. Its mission is to promote free and respectful growth for all beings, children and adults alike, in harmony with the environment, guided by the belief that everyone is part of a greater whole. Motto: 'Tempo de Educar para o Respeito, Responsabilidade e Amor' (Time to Educate for Respect, Responsibility and Love). TERRA runs daily activities for children in a natural, home-like setting, offering support for families practising home education, and emphasizing outdoor play, healthy nutrition, and strong emotional bonds ('colo e abraço' — lap and hug) between children and caregiving adults. The association also organizes seasonal workshops (Easter, Christmas, summer holiday camps), a Christmas market, and community festivals such as its 10th anniversary celebration at the Jardim das Oliveiras. Families describe TERRA as a nurturing, safe space where children can explore, form friendships, and connect with nature — including learning Portuguese naturally through immersion for non-native families. The community places strong value on free play, project-based learning methodology, and holistic child development. Enrolments for the 2026/2027 school year are open, and the association actively invites prospective families to visit and experience the environment firsthand. TERRA continues to build a learning community rooted in nature, connection, and respect for all forms of life in the Minho region.