About Growing With Nature School

Our Approach

Children may choose activities based on their current interests, with lots of open-ended play and creative arts. Expression of self is fostered through mindfulness, creativity, and play. We incorporate activities that engage all senses and use natural materials as much as possible, and we encourage children to observe the world around them by celebrating the weather and the changing of the seasons.

Our program is rooted in a child-centered approach where each child is respected as a unique individual with their own interests, personality, and pace of development. We provide a warm, home-like environment where children feel safe, valued, and deeply cared for — the heart of our philosophy.

Play is the foundation of learning. Through open-ended play, hands-on experiences, and gentle guidance, children build confidence, independence, problem-solving skills, and meaningful social relationships. If that sounds like your family, read more about what child-led learning looks like day to day.

Our Goals

• Create a loving, peaceful, nurturing home environment where children feel emotionally secure and supported.
• Foster a strong connection between children and the natural world through daily outdoor exploration and nature-based learning.
• Encourage independence, confidence, creativity, and self-expression through child-led play and discovery.
• Support social-emotional development by modeling kindness, empathy, cooperation, and respect.
• Promote healthy physical development through active outdoor play, gardening, climbing, movement, and sensory experiences.
• Honor each child's individuality and developmental pace while encouraging curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.
• Provide meaningful experiences that inspire wonder, imagination, and appreciation for the simple beauty of childhood.
• Make every child feel seen and heard while providing a sense of safety, confidence, and love.

Our Daily Rhythm

A predictable rhythm helps children feel secure. Here is how a typical day flows, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

1. 8:00 – 9:30 AMArrivals & WelcomesAfter children have been welcomed, families say their goodbyes and children may work on a seasonal activity or engage in free play.
2. 9:45 – 10:00 AMCircle TimeGathering in a circle allows everyone to be seen and heard. We enjoy singing, rhythm, and movement before venturing off for outside play.
3. 10:00 – 10:20 AMSnack Time OutsideChildren need lots of fuel for their growing bodies, so we make sure they eat often enough to gain energy throughout the day.
4. 10:15 AM – 12:00 PMOutside PlayWe spend this time outside exploring and playing — climbing trees, visiting the chickens and ducks, digging, and getting dirty.
5. 12:00 – 12:30 PMWash Up & LunchWhen we come back inside, we wash our hands, change clothes if necessary, and eat our lunch together.
6. 12:30 – 1:00 PMInside Play & CraftsAfter lunch, children have some inside play and occasional arts and crafts. Story time precedes naps and outside play.
7. 1:00 – 2:30 PMNap / Rest TimeFor children still napping, after story time they settle onto sleep mats with white noise. Once they wake, they are led outside to greet the other children and teacher.
8. 1:00 – 4:00 PMOutside PlayAll non-napping children head outside for more outdoor fun.
9. 3:30 – 3:50 PMPick-Up TimeChildren may be picked up anytime during pick-up or earlier if needed. Please arrive no later than 3:50 so there is time for a quick check-in and to gather your child's belongings. School closes at 4:00 PM.