With two great locations, there's so much to explore with Nature Preschool!
Learn more at the Virtual Open houses on February 17 and February 19.
If you are interested in availability for the 2020-2021 school year, please call 216-313-8057.
What is a Nature Preschool?
Nature preschools use the natural world to support dual goals that address both child development and conservation values. These include the development of the whole child and the development of an environmental ethic.
Nature preschools are based on high-quality practices of both early childhood education and environmental education. The children spend time outdoors every day (except in dangerous weather) connecting with the natural world and creating a sense of place and belonging.
Our Mission:
The mission of Cleveland Metroparks Nature Preschool is to provide an exceptional child-centered and nature-based preschool environment which meets the developmental needs of the whole child (physical, cognitive, emotional, social and perceptual) by utilizing the natural world around them.
Our Philosophy:
By immersing a child into nature at an early age, we believe children develop a deep-seated appreciation and understanding of the natural world and their place within it. Nature is the foundation for our curriculum, which is based on Ohio Early Learning and Development Standards and developmentally appropriate practices.
The teaching staff will promote development and growth of each child by:·
- fostering a sense of wonder.
- nurturing a sense of self.
- developing a respect for our natural world.
- encouraging problem solving and reflection.
- inspiring independent thinkers.
- instilling confidence.
- promoting skills necessary to transition to kindergarten:
- Math
- Science
- Language development
- Music
- Art
- Dramatic play
- Large and fine motor skills
Join us to learn how this unique, state-licensed program combines early childhood education with immersive outdoor experiences. This nine-month, nature-based curriculum meets the needs of the whole child, develops an appreciation of the natural world, and provides skills and concepts that build kindergarten-readiness. Visit the classroom, meet staff, talk with other parents, and learn more about how Nature Preschool is blazing the trail in fostering healthy and resilient child development.
To be qualified, a child or children must be 3 years old before August 1, 2021 and potty-trained before the start of the school year. Available locations include Nature Preschool at North Chagrin Nature Center and Nature Preschool at Rocky River Nature Center.
- 5 days, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from 8:30 - 11:30 a.m. ($5,115 annually/child)
- 3 days, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday from 8:30 - 11:30 a.m. ($3,069 annually/child)
- 3 days, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday from 12:30 - 3:30 p.m. ($3,069 annually/child)
- 2 days, Thursday and Friday from 8:30 - 11:30 a.m. ($2,046 annually/child)
Application fee of $25 per child to be assessed. To secure entry into the Nature Preschool program, selected applicants must fill out necessary paperwork and pay the tuition deposit ($341 for a 3-day class, $227 for a 2-day class) by March 8, 2021.
Registration dates:
- February 22 – Registration opens for all Cuyahoga County/ Hinckley Township residents
- March 3 – Registration opens for all other participants
The school year will begin September 7, 2021 and will run through the week of May 9, 2022. The preschool will follow the North Olmsted City School District Calendar. We are a 9-month program and require a commitment for the entire school year.