Programs

Nurturing every child through nature, play, and discovery

Growing curious minds through nature and play

At Nature Wanderers Childcare, we offer early learning programs that support children’s development from age 3 to 12. Our routine strikes a balance between structure and flexibility, with every day grounded in nature-based play, exploration, and hands-on learning. Certified educators guide children in environments that spark curiosity, independence, creativity, and well-being.

Age group availability may vary depending on location.

Preschool Program (36 months to kindergarten) and Full day Kindergarten

Our preschool program offers an immersive outdoor-focused experience where children learn through play, inquiry, and joyful discovery. The daily rhythm balances active time, quiet moments, and meaningful engagement to build confidence, independence, and social-emotional growth.

Sample of flexible daily routine: •7:00–8:00 AM – Early bird activities (child’s choice), play-based invitations •7:00–8:00 AM – Open breakfast (child’s choice) These two can be combined in one line •8:00–8:45 AM – Invitations to learn, explore, create based on interests •8:45–9:00 AM – Morning snack •9:00–9:20 AM – Circle time •9:20–11:30 AM – Outdoor play and nature-based learning (weather permitting) •11:45–12:15 PM – Lunch •12:20–1:00 PM – Relaxing and restful activities •1:00–3:30 PM – Outdoor learning and play (weather permitting) •3:45–4:00 PM – Afternoon snack •4:00–5:00 PM – Free play and learning invitations (weather permitting) •5:00–5:45 PM – Free play •6:00 PM – Program closes

Kindergarten to age 12 (Before & After School Care)

Our school-age program offers enriching care before and after school hours. Children experience nature-based learning, active play, and creative exploration in a relaxed and nurturing environment. Discover what a day looks like with us—routines vary by age group."

Learning through movement and physical development

Physical play is a core part of our day. Children develop gross and fine motor skills through free movement, structured games, nature walks, climbing, gardening, and other engaging activities. Activities promote coordination, strength, balance, and a love for healthy activity.

Our spaces are safe, age-appropriate, and designed to support both active exploration and calm, focused movement.

Creative expression

We nurture artistic and imaginative expression through:

Open-ended arts and crafts
Loose parts play
Dramatic play and costume creation
Music and movement
Building and designing with tools and natural materials

Creativity is seen as a key form of communication and self-exploration.

Language and communication

Language is celebrated and supported through:

Storytelling
Creating stories
Reading circles
Singing and rhymes
Puppet shows
Language games and riddles

We create rich environments where children are encouraged to express themselves, connect with others, and grow their vocabulary through meaningful play.

Supporting the whole child: mind, body, and creativity

Emotional development
and belonging

We help children:

Identify and express emotions
Build empathy
Develop self-awareness and resilience
Respect cultural diversity and celebrate traditions

Mixed-age play is encouraged to foster leadership and compassion. Educators offer consistent emotional support, validating each child’s feelings and perspectives.

Cognitive and intellectual exploration

Cognitive development is nurtured through play-based inquiry and challenge-based activities. We encourage:

Nature observation and detective work
Experiments and brain teasers
Puzzles and memory games
Hands-on learning (building, sorting, collecting)
Visits to natural spaces that spark curiosity

Outdoor play across seasons

Our programs happen outdoors in all seasons (weather permitting), because nature is a teacher. Children build resilience, awareness, and joy while engaging with real-world environments—rain, snow, sun, or wind.