Why outdoor preschool?

In a time when most preschool age kids live with a screen at their fingertips, if not glued to their face; we need to make a change. The statistics on the amount of time kids spend watching TV, playing video games, or on tablets is staggering. Now more than ever we need to help our children connect and foster a relationship with nature. We have all, as parents felt guilty for not getting our kids out to play as frequently as we wish. An outdoor preschool allows for total immersion. Kids operating in a rain or shine environment learn quickly (if they don't already know) that playing outside in the rain can be just as much fun as the sunshine. Nature is the absolute perfect playground for a child.

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The quote that constantly pops up is, "There is no bad weather, only bad clothes."- Unknown

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What will we do in inclement weather?

Because we are fortunate in Washington State to rarely have dangerous weather, this is not typically going to be an issue. However, in the event we have extreme winds or the threat of lightning, we will have contingency plans. There are places nearby to each of our meeting spots such as pavilions or other shelters we will default to. Classes will be planned around weather accordingly (i.e. if it's extremely windy, we won't be meeting under large trees). Because weather is not always predictable, we will occasionally make judgment calls. For example if there is a high speed windstorm, there is a chance class may be cancelled. 

 

In the event of snow, we will follow the North Kitsap School District. Because of our limited class hours, days when NK has a delayed start, we will not have morning class. As always, I will communicate throughout these situations and am always available to contact via email, text or good 'ol fashioned phone call.

The safety of our students is our first priority. Our attitude is rain or shine, but safety is paramount.

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Do Tuffo suits run big?

Yes! They are very roomy to accommodate clothing underneath. You can order the size your child wears in clothing, if they are very small we recommend sizing down one. Our 4 year old could probably fit in our 2 year old's 2T, but this way they can wear them for a long time.

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What will we do for a bathroom?

This is a major variable. Our solution is a lightweight portable flush potty similar to those used in RVs. This way squeamish kiddos can flush and more importantly go in a clean toilet bowl. We have a small pop up tent that the toilet is in for privacy, and think most kids will actually have fun using it (ours do!) We will make an opportunity for interested kiddos to try it at our meet & greet/orientation.

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We promote going in nature when nature calls (with some ground rules), but realize not every child is comfortable doing this. It is also important to establish boundaries, such as letting us know beforehand, and going a moderate distance from the rest of the kids for privacy.

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Do kids have to be potty trained?

Ideally, all kids would be potty trained (no kidding, right?) However, we understand there are many variables involved in potty training. We request that the 4 and 5 year olds in the afternoon class be fully potty trained. We are hopeful the 3 and 4 year olds in the morning class will also be using the potty, but if pullups are necessary that is okay. That being said, it will need to be mostly as a precaution, as we cannot be stopping class to change diapers on a regular basis. @#%& happens, and we'll make it work. Communication is number one between us and parents to implement a plan. Littles in the Friday morning class are not required to be potty trained, but on their way with a similar pullup situation is desirable.

Preschool is great incentive for potty training!

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Will the kids learn preschool curriculum?

Yes! We will be engaging in typical preschool activities, sometimes adjusted for the outdoors. Letters, counting, colors, shapes, story time, songs, dancing, make believe, free play time, art/crafts, snack time, guests, and show and tell to name a few. Being outside will allow for even more creativity and imaginative play. To an extent the outdoors will guide our day and conversations. We will be in an inspired learning environment where our materials all provide stimulation.