Policies and FAQ

Preschool Program Overview

 

What is Wild Nook Preschool?

Wild Nook Preschool is a play-based, nature-inspired early childhood program designed to support the whole child. Our days center around outdoor exploration, creativity, social connection, and gentle routines that nurture curiosity and confidence.

 

What does “learning in nature” mean at Wild Nook?
Learning in nature means using the outdoors as our classroom rather than our curriculum. Children might build, move their bodies, create stories, negotiate with peers, or observe what’s around them—but the focus is on play, relationships, and and whole-child development, not on mastering nature-based content.

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Educators thoughtfully guide children’s learning and conversations to include awareness of the natural world (such as seasons, plants, animals, and weather) while following children’s interests and developmental needs. Nature learning is intentionally woven in, but the heart of our curriculum is play, connection, and development—not formal nature instruction.

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What ages do you serve?

Wild Nook offers:

• A 3-year-old preschool class

• A 4-year-old preschool class

• Wild Roots Kindergarten Enrichment, a supplemental program for kindergarten-aged children

 

Age eligibility is based on a September 1 cutoff for each school year.

 

Is Wild Nook a full-day preschool?

No. Wild Nook is a part-day program designed to complement family life and other learning experiences.

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Philosophy & Approach

 

What is your educational philosophy?

Our approach is rooted in play-based learning, child development, and connection to nature. We prioritize social-emotional growth, creativity, and hands-on exploration over worksheets or academic pressure.

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Do children learn letters and numbers?

Yes—letters, numbers, and early literacy skills are introduced naturally through play, stories, songs, and meaningful experiences rather than formal instruction.

 

How much time do children spend outdoors?
Outdoor time is a central part of our program. Children spend time outside daily whenever weather allows, exploring nature, engaging in imaginative play, and building resilience.

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Mixed-Age Nature Class (Ages 2–8)

 

What is the mixed-age nature class?
Our mixed-age nature class is a weekly, family-centered experience for children ages 2–8 and their caregiver. This class is designed for shared exploration, connection to nature, and joyful time together outdoors.

 

Is this a forest school or survival-skills class?
No. While we spend time outdoors, this class is not focused on survival skills or formal nature instruction. Instead, children explore, imagine, and play in nature while we focus on developmental aspects of play such as creativity, social connection, problem-solving, and emotional regulation.

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What does “learning in nature” mean at Wild Nook?
Learning in nature means using the outdoors as our classroom rather than our curriculum. Children might build, move their bodies, create stories, negotiate with peers, or observe what’s around them—but the focus is on play, relationships, and and whole-child development, not on mastering nature-based content.

​

Educators thoughtfully guide children’s learning and conversations to include awareness of the natural world (such as seasons, plants, animals, and weather) while following children’s interests and developmental needs. Nature learning is intentionally woven in, but the heart of our curriculum is play, connection, and development—not formal nature instruction.

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Is this a drop-off class?
No. A parent or caregiver attends alongside their child. This class is intentionally designed to support connection, modeling, and shared learning.

 

What does a typical class look like?
Classes include open-ended outdoor play, nature exploration, simple group invitations (such as stories, songs, or seasonal activities), and time for families to connect. Activities are flexible and designed to meet children where they are developmentally.

 

Is there an academic focus?
No. This class does not have an academic focus. The emphasis is on curiosity, sensory experiences, relationship-building, and fostering a love of the natural world.

 

How do you accommodate such a wide age range?
Activities are intentionally open-ended so children of different ages can engage at their own level. Parents support their own child while the group benefits from the richness of mixed-age interaction.

 

What is the role of the parent or caregiver during class?
Caregivers are encouraged to participate alongside their child—observing, engaging in play, offering support as needed, and helping guide respectful interactions with others and the environment.

 

What if my child has a hard time participating?
That’s okay. Children may take breaks, observe from the sidelines, or leave early if needed. This class is meant to be supportive and low-pressure.

 

What should we bring or wear?
Families should dress for the weather and be prepared to get messy. Details about clothing, footwear, and optional items will be shared before the session begins.

 

Is this class right for us?
This class is a great fit for families who enjoy being outdoors, value unstructured play, and are comfortable with flexibility and exploration. If you’re unsure, feel free to reach out with questions.

 

Faith & Values

 

Is Wild Nook a faith-based program?
Wild Nook is a faith-informed program. Faith is woven gently into our days through simple, non-denominational prayers and expressions of gratitude.

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Is participation in prayer required?
Children are always welcomed to participate in ways that feel comfortable for them. Our goal is to create a respectful, inclusive environment for all families.

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Registration & Enrollment

 

How does registration work?
Registration is completed in two steps:

1. Families register for their child’s class and submit the non-refundable registration fee.

2. A required enrollment form is emailed after registration and should be completed within one week.

Once registration and payment are complete, your child’s spot is secured.

 

Is the registration fee refundable?
No. The registration fee is non-refundable and helps cover materials, planning, and administrative costs.

 

Does the registration fee apply to tuition?
No. The registration fee is separate from tuition and does not apply toward tuition costs.

 

What if my child is close to the age cutoff?
Children must meet the age requirement by September 1 for the applicable school year. If you have questions about placement, you are welcome to reach out.

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Payment & Tuition

 

When is tuition due?
Tuition is due on the 1st of each month.

 

Is there a registration fee?
Yes. A one-time, non-refundable registration fee is due at sign-up to secure your child’s spot. Registration fees are non-refundable unless a class is canceled by Wild Nook.

 

What happens if we need to withdraw before the session starts?
If you need to withdraw before the session begins, partial refunds may be available depending on notice given and whether the spot can be filled.

 

Are tuition payments refundable once the session begins?
After the session has begun, tuition is non-refundable except in cases of extended illness or emergency.

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Refunds & Withdrawals

 

What is your withdrawal policy?

• Registration fees are non-refundable.

• Tuition is non-refundable once the month has begun.

• If a family withdraws mid-month, no refund will be given for that month.

• A 30-day written notice is required to withdraw from the program.

 

Weather & Missed Days

 

What is your policy for weather and absences?
Wild Nook runs rain or shine—outdoor learning is at the heart of our program. Please send your child with appropriate weather gear each day.

 

There are no refunds or makeup days for absences due to illness, vacations, or typical weather. In the case of severe weather or emergency closures, families will be notified promptly and alternative meetups or home activity suggestions may be offered.

 

Photo Policy

 

Are photos taken during class?
During class, we may take photos to capture special moments. By default, your child’s image may be used in Wild Nook materials such as newsletters, social media, or future promotions.

 

Families may opt out of public-facing photos on the registration form. We will make every effort to keep opted-out children out of public images.

 

Liability & Emergency Medical Consent

 

What should families know about safety and medical care?
By enrolling your child, you acknowledge the inherent risks of outdoor play and release Wild Nook, its staff, and volunteers from liability related to injuries or accidents that may occur during program hours.

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Families also give permission for Wild Nook staff to provide basic first aid and to seek emergency medical treatment if necessary. Every reasonable effort will be made to contact parents or guardians first.

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This FAQ is intended to provide general information. Specific details may be updated as the school year approaches.​

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