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Preschool without walls

We are Louisville’s first nature-based preschool, nestled in the beautiful woodlands of Creasey Mahan Nature Preserve.  We’ve removed the walls and brought child-led, exploratory learning to where it makes the most impact: outside. Forest schools (also known as “forest kindergartens”) have been well established for over 50 years and are among the fastest growing models in early-childhood education. Why? Because they work. Development and learning are enhanced when children are given the space and confidence to follow their curiosities, engage with peers, stimulate all senses, and test their limits. This fosters a love of learning which will serve them well beyond primary school and into their adult lives.

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More Physical Activity

During forest school sessions, both boys and girls are significantly more physically active than they are at a regular school, and their activity is both more intense and more prolonged. Physical activity from outdoor play can in turn contribute to better motor skills.

(SOURCE: MARKET WATCH)

Less Fidgeting

At forest school, active children are easily able to burn off excess energy, which can be particularly beneficial to children with ADHD. Researchers have also found that nature has a soothing, restorative effect that makes it easier for children to focus in a natural area or after spending time in one. And the more natural the area, the stronger the effect.

More Imaginative

Nature is the perfect setting for dramatic play and abounds with open-ended play materials like pine cones, rocks, sticks, logs, sand and leaves that encourage children’s imaginations to run wild. These creative skills are essential for problem-solving and succeeding at school and life later. Also, natural spaces are not gender-coded, which encourages boys and girls to play together.

Judging Risk

Children who are allowed to take risks in nature, for example by climbing trees, using tools and being near fire, naturally learn how to manage those risks. Risky play is also believed to nurture adventurousness and cultivate resilience and self-reliance, both traits that can help children overcome challenges.

Desire to Protect Nature

Children who spend time in nature have a better understanding of how it works and become emotionally attached to it. Several researchers have showed that this makes them more likely to want to protect nature later in life.

What do parents say?

VICTORIA M.

VICTORIA M.

MOTHER OF CALVIN, 4 YEARS OLD

Calvin now knows that every day, no matter the weather, is a great time to explore. He also is less reliant on toys and objects to entertain him. He will happily engage in imaginative play using sticks and leaves. He is much more confident of his own abilities and much more willing to persevere when he is having trouble doing something.
KAY E.

KAY E.

MOTHER OF JULIA, 3 YEARS OLD

I have seen growth in her confidence to try new things. Julia is naturally very cautious, and was not a climber before Forest School. Now she is eager to climb! I've also noticed growth in the way she understands animals, weather and Seasons. On the way to school yesterday, we had a long conversation about eagles and what kinds of things they catch to eat. She was able to tell me what things would be too heavy for an eagle, and what things they might like better. And she was correct! She is also very tuned into the weather conditions, and every day she is able to discuss the daily weather.  I also see huge growth in her resilience. She is not scared of any weather condition, and wants to play outside regardless of ice or rain!
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