Philosophy

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Nature is both the classroom and a teacher, and learning happens almost exclusively outdoors; where there are endless opportunities to grow and learn. In nature, children explore, jump, balance, solve problems, learn empathy, cooperate with others, and play, all while engaging in early literacy, science, math and social emotional learning. While predictable rituals and routines guide children into learning, nature-based education allows children's interests and curiosity to direct the day's activities and inform the curriculum. There is a growing body of research that shows that this type of frequent play in nature stimulates all of a child's developmental domains, including their cognitive, creative, physical, social and emotional, and spiritual development. Children discover the wonders of the landscape surrounding them, while also their inner landscape through meaningful relationships with mentors, classmates, and nature. 

•  Nature promotes the health and well-being of the whole child.
• Nature is the ideal venue for academic growth, imaginative play, social and emotional learning, problem solving, and promoting active play.
• Frequent, immersive experiences in nature with a mentor cultivates and environmental ethic.
• Todays youth are tomorrow's environmental  stewards and leaders.

• To prepare each child socially and academically to succeed.
• To develop a sense of place and foster a deep connection to the nature.
• To cultivate a strong, supportive, inclusive community between classmates, families and preschool staff.
• To enable each child to reach their full potential by meeting each child's social, emotional, and academic needs and helping them to grow. 

Utilizing nature as the organizing principle for all learning experiences.

Integrating developmentally appropriate best practices in early childhood and environmental education.

Focusing on all aspects of child development:

•  Cognitive-Nurturing children's innate love of learning through rich, experiential,  educational, emergent curriculum that follows children's interests and curiosity. 
•  Social and Emotional - Fostering self-confidence and empathy for others through self-awareness, collaboration, conflict resolution, and finding solutions. 
• Physical - Building resiliency and promoting health through active play, appropriate risk-taking, and self-regulation as children experience nature in all seasons and weather conditions.
• Creative-Encouraging creativity and curiosity through art, storytelling, and imaginative play. 
• Spiritual - Cultivating awe and respect for the natural world through direct experience with the wonders of nature. 

 Providing an environment which encourages children to actively explore, play, discover, express themselves, and take responsibility for their actions.