forest preschool
At Wild Wander Forest School, our Forest Preschool program is designed for our youngest explorers, ages 2.5 to 4 years. Rooted in nature and guided by curiosity, this all-outdoor program blends project-based learning, Forest School principles, and California State Standards. We believe that learning is most powerful when it’s hands-on, child-led, and deeply connected to the environment.
What makes our Early Years program unique? It’s more than preschool held outside—it’s a rich, immersive experience where children build confidence, communication skills, and a true sense of belonging in the natural world. Whether they’re identifying animal tracks, negotiating with friends, painting with mud, or gathered in a story circle, every moment is grounded in joy and meaningful growth.
Our educators guide students through emergent, play-based learning while gently introducing rhythm, routines, and structure to support healthy transitions, cooperation, and self-regulation—laying the foundation for lifelong learning through nature, connection, and exploration.
Days & Times:
Mondays - Fridays
8:10AM - 12:10PM
***Can be paired with Afternoon Enrichment***
Mondays - Fridays | 12:10PM - 2:10PM
A Day in the Life of a Wild Wanderer
Each day at Wild Wander Forest School follows a gentle, nature-guided rhythm that provides just enough structure to foster security while leaving space for spontaneity and child-led learning.
Some of our Program Highlights Include:
Held entirely outdoors in thoughtfully chosen nature classrooms
Aligned with CA Early Learning Standards
Focused on foundational literacy, numeracy, social-emotional learning, and environmental stewardship
Emphasizes play, exploration, sensory development, and independence
Incorporates Positive Guidance and trauma-informed care practices
Supports whole-child development and school readiness
8:10AM - 8:30AM
Morning Arrival & Invitations to Play
Children ease into the day with nature-based provocations: pinecone sorting, mud kitchen, watercolor with natural brushes.
8:30AM - 8:50AM
Morning Meeting
Circle time with songs, seasonal storytelling, mindfulness, and a preview of the day’s focus.
8:55AM - 9:20AM
Literacy Play
Nature-themed letter scavenger hunts, storytelling stones, and tracing letters in the dirt with sticks.
9:25AM - 10:00AM
Snack & Open Exploration
A calm snack followed by child-led discovery: climbing logs, building forts, searching for insects.
10:05AM - 10:25AM
Numeracy Play
Counting pinecones, building symmetrical rock patterns, measuring puddle depth with sticks.
10:30AM - 10:50AM
Exploration & Discovery
Small group inquiry (e.g., "Why do mushrooms grow here?") or art in the field with natural materials.
10:50AM - 11:20AM
Observations & Nature Journaling
Children record what they see, hear, and feel—drawing leaves, dictating stories, or collecting textures.
11:20AM - 11:55AM
Lunch & Community Time
A shared meal followed by conversation, rest under the trees, or quiet storytelling.
11:55AM - 12:10PM
Closing Circle
Reflections, gratitude, and songs to mark the end of our time together.
Our Forest Pre-K Program is for children aged 2.5 - 4 Years and is a 12-week program with sessions beginning in September.
