Sunflowers

Preschool and Pre-k

Our preschool program offers an enriching experience entirely outdoors, designed specifically for young learners ages 3–4. Blending a nurturing, play-based approach with a thoughtfully designed early childhood curriculum, we support the whole child—socially, emotionally, physically, and academically.

Children spend their days immersed in the natural world, where curiosity leads the way. Foundational skills are introduced through hands-on exploration, stories, songs, nature-based projects, and sensory-rich play. Our curriculum aligns with early learning standards while honoring the rhythms of childhood and the seasons.

From counting pinecones to storytelling in the forest, each day is filled with wonder, movement, and meaningful connection. Daily routines include nature walks, themed activities, free play, shared meals, and rest time—all supported by caring teachers who guide children with intention and heart.

This program lays a strong foundation for future learning while allowing childhood to unfold as it should: full of joy, imagination, discovery, and muddy boots.

  • For Ages 3–5 | Playful Learning Rooted in Nature

    Morning Session | 9am-12:00pm

    9:00 AM - Arrival and Free Exploration

    • Gentle drop-off and connection with teachers

    • Child-led play: nature art, mud kitchen, fort building, bug spotting

    9:30 AM - Morning Snack

    • Shared snack time with handwashing and social routines

    • Gratitude practice, finger rhymes, or a short story

    10:00 AM - Nature Circle & Thematic Exploration

    • Welcome songs, movement, weather, and visual overview of the day

    • Seasonal, inquiry-based learning (including intro to literacy, math, science)

    11:00 AM - Lunch

    • Picnic style lunch outdoors

    • Emphasis on independence, conversation, and healthy habits

    11:30 AM Outdoor Play & Discovery

    • Unstructured nature play with open ended tools and loose parts

    • Climbing, water play, sensory experiences

    • Teachers support social-emotional growth and conflict resolution

    12:00 PM - Dismissal

  • Afternoon Session | 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM

    12:30 PM - Arrival & Gentle Welcome

    • Child led exploration and settling in

    • Connection time with teachers and peers

    1:00 PM - Project Work or Nature Walk

    • Group project, nature inquiry, or sensory hike

    1:45-2:00 PM - Afternoon Snack

    • Relaxed snack paired with a poem, story, or nature journaling

    2:15 PM - Choice Time & Imaginative Play

    • Children choose stations: nature art, music, loose parts, water table

    • Teachers observe and extend learning through play

    3:15 PM - Closing Circle

    • Song, reflection, gratitude, or group story

    • Gentle transition to goodbye

    3:30 PM - Dismissal

  • Flexible Scheduling to Support Families
    Our outdoor nature school offers both morning and afternoon sessions to meet a variety of scheduling needs. While we maintain a consistent structure for the benefit of our students, we also understand that every family’s schedule is unique. We do our best to accommodate individual needs with flexibility whenever possible—because supporting families is part of our mission.

    Morning Sessions

    Monday/Wednesday - 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM: $500/Month

    Tuesday/Thursday - 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM: $500/Month

    Monday/Wednesday/Friday - 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM: $750/Month

    Monday-Thursday - 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM: $950/Month (5% built-in discount)

    Monday-Friday - 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM: $1,125/Month (10% built-in discount)

    Afternoon Sessions

    Monday/Wednesday - 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM: $500/Month

    Tuesday/Thursday - 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM: $500/Month

    Monday/Wednesday/Friday - 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM: $750/Month

    Monday-Thursday - 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM: $950/Month (5% built-in discount)

    Monday-Friday - 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM: $1,125/Month (10% built-in discount)

Curriculum

Hidden Trails proudly incorporates Treehouse Nature Study curriculum as a foundation for our seasonal, nature-based learning. Thoughtfully designed for child-led exploration, this curriculum blends outdoor discovery with meaningful academic enrichment. Children engage in nature notebooking, hands-on projects, and “beauty subjects” such as poetry, picture study, and music—all rooted in the rhythm of the seasons.

Treehouse Nature Study is ideal for mixed-age learning, making it a perfect fit for our nature school community. Whether your child is in preschool or upper elementary, this curriculum invites them to slow down, connect deeply with the natural world, and grow through joyful, curiosity-driven learning.

Meet Your Teachers