Discover Nature

What makes The Nature Nest different from a traditional preschool or childcare center?

The Nature Nest is not your average childcare program — our approach is rooted in nature, emotional growth, and child-led exploration. We believe learning happens best through hands-on experiences, open-ended play, and meaningful connections. Our environment nurtures curiosity, creativity, and confidence in every child.

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What ages do you serve?

We welcome children ages 3–5 years for both our half-day and full-day preschool programs.

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What are your program options?

We offer three flexible programs to meet the needs of families:

• Full-Day Program (9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.)

• Half-Day Morning Program (9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)

• Half-Day Afternoon Program (12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.)

All programs run Monday–Friday and follow the local public school calendar.

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Is lunch or snack provided?

Families provide their own lunches and snacks unless otherwise noted.

• Morning Half-Day: Snack time is scheduled, but families provide the snack.

• Afternoon Half-Day: Snack time is scheduled, but families provide the snack.

• Full-Day: Lunch and snack brought from home.

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Is there a rest time?

Yes! Our full-day program includes a calm and cozy rest period each afternoon to help children recharge.

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What is the annual registration fee?

There is an annual $150 non-refundable registration fee due at the time of enrollment and is due annually. This fee secures your child’s spot but does not apply toward tuition.

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What are the tuition payment options?

Families may:

• Pay tuition in one lump sum at time of enrollment.

• Or choose our four-installment payment plan (with an added $200 administrative fee) to spread tuition across the school year 

• At check out you have flexible payment options (using Venmo, Google Pay, PayPal, or PayPal Pay Later, Klarna, After-Pay, Credit Cards) with either full payments or installments.​

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Do you offer outdoor play or nature-based learning year-round?

Absolutely! Nature is at the heart of everything we do. Children spend time outdoors daily, exploring our sensory-rich, weather-appropriate environment — from garden play to nature walks, mud kitchens, and seasonal projects.

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What is your approach to emotional and social development?

We integrate emotional-based learning into every part of the day. Teachers model empathy, mindfulness, and problem-solving, helping children identify feelings, build friendships, and develop resilience through play and community.

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Do children need to be potty-trained?

Yes, children must be mostly or fully potty-trained prior to enrollment. We understand that accidents happen and will work gently with families as children gain confidence and independence.

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How can families get involved?

We love family participation! Parents are invited to join seasonal celebrations, nature walks, and classroom projects, and to volunteer for special events throughout the year.

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We see that you have a consulting Occupational Therapist — how does that fit into the program?

At The Nature Nest, we believe every child develops at their own pace, and we’re proud to have a consulting pediatric Occupational Therapist as part of our team. This partnership allows us to thoughtfully design our classroom environments, routines, and play experiences with child development in mind. Our consulting OT helps guide teachers in areas such as sensory regulation, motor skill development, emotional support, and environmental adaptations, ensuring that every child can participate fully and comfortably. While this collaboration enhances our overall program, individual therapy services are not provided through the preschool but can be coordinated separately through Mindful Motion Therapy if families are interested in additional support.