Nature Preschools

Nature preschools are a growing trend in education, and Natural Start is happy to support the role they play in developing happy, healthy children. If you are a nature preschool or want to help support the work they do, join our Alliance to help this movement grow.

Nature-Based Preschool Professional Practice Guidebook

The first resource in the United States to provide guidance on the unique professional practices of nature-based early childhood education is now available! Intended for teachers, administrators, policy makers, and parents, the Guidebook is an essential resource for anyone interested in nature-based early childhood education. Learn about the Guidebook and its applications to your practice, download the introduction and summary, or purchase a copy on Amazon.

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Forest School in Public School: Is It Possible?

Feature Story

Are nature-based programs possible in public school settings? Several teachers give us new hope that public schools can use the forest as a classroom. Read more

Five Ideas for Making the Most of Mud

Bright Idea

Spring is mud season, and while most children heartily embrace it, parents and teachers can be wary of the mess or unsure of the benefits. Read more

Chippewa Nature Center

Member Spotlight

Chippewa Nature Center’s (CNC) Nature Preschool in Midland, Michigan is a high-quality early childhood program for 3- and 4-year olds that teaches children literacy, math, science, and social-emotional skills in the context of nature. The children regularly hike to wooded areas, ponds, fields, and the Homestead Farm. Read more

Photo by The Nature Preschool at Irvine Nature Center

A Natural Partnership

Feature Story

A new partnership between the Irvine Nature Center and the Ark Preschool that serves homeless children in Baltimore, Maryland, aims to give homeless children and their parents a place and time to take a break in nature. Read more

The Nature Preschool at Irvine Nature Center

5 Pro Tips for Water Wear

Bright Idea

We asked some of our nature preschool friends for their best tips for keeping kids comfortable outside on a rainy day. Read more