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Forest Preschool

Little Wonders Nature Preschool

Little Wonders Nature Preschool
Ages 3-5

Little Wonders is 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. Nestled at EdenAcres Farm Campus, 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, children engage in hands-on experiences that foster curiosity, discovery, 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

At Little Wonders, 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 & Respect

We believe that children are citizens of the world, and we foster an environment that encourages respect 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.

Join us at Little Wonders, where childhood is honored, curiosity is celebrated, and nature guides the way.

preschoolers hugging

Daily Rhythm**

9:00 - 9:15   Drop-off & Morning Table Activity

9:15 - 9:30   Play Exploration

9:30 - 9:45   Morning Circle

9:45 - 10:00   Morning Animal Care

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 or 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 Staff

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:

Fall and Spring Semesters   

2024/25 School Year - Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday

2025/26 School Year - Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday

9:00 am-1:00 pm

2025/26 School Year Dates:  

Fall Semester: 9/8/25 - 1/23/26

First day of fall semester: September 8, 2025


Spring Semester: 1/26/26 - 5/22/26

First day of spring semester: January 26, 2026

Bathroom Readiness:

All students at Little Wonders Nature Preschool 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:

54303 NW Old Wilson River Road, Gales Creek 

How Much?

We use an equitible 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!

 

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! 

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