EdenAcres Environmental Education
Education · Environment · Community
440-479-4813
WildRoots
Nature Preschool
Chickadees Class ~ Farm Campus
Wrens Class ~ Forest Campus
Ages 3-5
Welcome to the Wild Roots nature preschool - where we embrace playfulness, curiosity and boundless energy! We are a half-day nature preschool for children ages 3-5, offering a warm and supportive transition into an educational setting where nature is the first teacher. Our program provides young learners with a nurturing space to explore, play, and grow at their own pace.
Rooted in the Reggio Emilia philosophy, we view children as capable, curious, and full of potential. Our approach honors their innate sense of wonder, allowing them to take an active role in their learning journey. From caring for farm animals and wandering through the forest to watching seedlings sprout in the garden, climbing trees, and learning to use real tools, children engage in hands-on experiences that foster curiosity, discovery, confidence, and a deep connection to the natural world. Our outdoor learning spaces nourish foundational senses, supporting whole-child development in an environment that values movement, exploration, and creativity.
A Nurturing and Play-Based Approach
We embrace a child-led, play-based philosophy that encourages social-emotional growth, self-expression, and independence. Our skilled educators serve as co-learners and facilitators, observing, documenting, and responding to children's interests. With a low child-to-teacher ratio, we ensure that every child receives individualized attention and meaningful interaction, fostering a strong sense of belonging and collaboration.
Learning Through the Seasons
Children thrive in all weather with the right gear, and we embrace the changing seasons as part of the curriculum. Whether splashing in puddles, feeling the warmth of the sun on their faces, or crunching through autumn leaves, each day offers rich sensory experiences that build resilience, adaptability, and a love for the outdoors.
Emergent Curriculum & Kindergarten Readiness
Our curriculum is guided by the interests and inquiries of the children, integrating early literacy, math, and science through storytelling, movement, art, and hands-on exploration. Inspired by Reggio Emilia principles, we encourage children to express their thoughts and ideas through multiple languages—drawing, sculpting, dramatic play, and conversation. Through play, children practice self-regulation, strengthen language and motor skills, and develop the foundations they need for kindergarten and beyond..
A Community of Care & Kindness
We believe that children are citizens of the world, and we foster an environment that encourages loving-kindness for all people, creatures, and ecosystems. Our days are filled with wonder, discovery, and meaningful connections, preparing children not just for school, but for a lifetime of learning and belonging.
Daily Rhythm**
9:00 - 9:15 Drop-off & Morning Table Activity
9:15 - 9:30 Play Exploration
9:30 - 10:00 Morning Circle & Song/Game
10:00 - 10:30 Snack
10:30 - 11:45 Forest Exploration/Ancestral Skills/Garden Time
11:45 - 12:15 Lunch
12:15 - 1:00 Free Exploration & Story/Handwork/Art
1:00 - 1:15 Pick-Up
**The daily rhythm described above is an example of the flow of the day. We structure the day to balance guided learning times with child-centered exploration to meet the curiosity of all the children.
Our Educators
Our instructors are early childhood trained teachers from a variety of backgrounds including Waldorf and Reggio Emilia education. All are experienced and passionate about sharing nature with children. Instructors are certified in CPR/First Aid and epipen administration. Staff ratios for Little Wonders are no larger than 7 students with 1 teacher. All adults in the program have passed full background checks.
When
Choose from a 2, 3 or 4 day/week rhythm
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
9:00 am-1:00 pm
Bathroom Readiness
All students must come potty-independent on the first day of school in September. This is important as our instructors facilitate adventurous, outdoor moments for young children in a rich, rugged environment.
See the Bathroom Readiness Policy here.
Where
Each site offers unique experiences immersed in nature! Select the location that meets your family's needs and interests. Contact us to schedule a tour of our campuses.
Farm Campus ~ 54303 NW Old Wilson River Road, Gales Creek
Forest Campus ~ 16528 NW Johnson Road, Hillsboro
How Much?
We use an equitable pricing model we call Choose-Your-Tuition. This model includes three options for families to choose from: Sliding Scale; Standard Rate; and Pay-It-Forward. Click here to learn more!
Standard Rate Tuition
2 days/week - $480/month, Sept. - May
3 days/week - $715/month, Sept. - May
4 days/week - $945/month, Sept. - May
Equity in Education is one of our core values. Our tuition model puts this value into action. It is one way that we are increasing access to alternative education for families across the economic spectrum. We invite you to join us in this vision of a better, more equitable world!
Which Tuition Option Fits Your Family?
Selecting the right tuition tier means reflecting on your family’s financial reality
Use the following prompts to help determine the best tuition option for your family. Consider which category reflects your current financial reality.
🌿 Pay-It-Forward
Consider choosing this tier if you:
Earn above the adequate standard of living for your area (per the Economic Policy Institute).
Have significant assets, such as investments, inheritance, or a paid-off home.
Live partially or fully off unearned income (family support, trust funds, gifts).
Can choose to work less or not at all due to financial flexibility.
Have a high earning potential due to education, race, or class background—even if you aren’t currently using it.
Have expendable income for frequent travel, dining, entertainment, or luxury expenses.
By choosing this tier, you help sustain the Sliding Scale option for families with financial need.
🌲 Standard Rate
This rate reflects the true cost of our programs. It’s for families who:
Earn an adequate standard of living (as defined by the Economic Policy Institute).
Can afford regular discretionary spending (eating out, entertainment, travel).
Do not experience race, ethnicity, gender, or disability-related barriers to income.
Have some student loan debt, but it does not create financial hardship.
Own or rent a home and can consistently meet financial obligations.
Have a stable career path with opportunities for growth.
If tuition is a sacrifice (cutting back on extras) but not a hardship (impacting basic needs), this is the right tier for you.
🍃 Sliding Scale
If paying tuition would create a significant financial hardship, this option is here for you. Consider this tier if you:
Earn below the adequate standard of living for your area.
Have medical expenses, debt, or caregiving responsibilities that impact your financial stability.
Experience barriers to earning due to disability, chronic illness, or immigration status.
Receive public assistance or rely on community aid to meet basic needs.
Have little or no family financial support or assets.
Are an elder with limited income.
If paying tuition would cause you to struggle with essentials like food, housing, or healthcare, please use this tier.
Honesty, Trust & Community Support
Our Choose Your Tuition model is built on trust and community care. We do not require income verification, and we trust families to choose the rate that best reflects their circumstances.
By selecting the tuition tier that aligns with your financial reality, you help us create a sustainable, equitable model that supports all families and our dedicated educators.
If you're unsure which tier is right for you, please reach out—we're happy to help! 💚
