Ferncliff Nature School Mission Statement
“Our mission is to provide the highest quality child centered education, while strengthening the child’s connection with the natural world through daily immersion and discovery in nature.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any special eligibility requirements for the program?
We are requiring that all children be independent with their potty skills upon enrollment in the program. Children also need basic safety awareness skills as well as practice with consistent rhythms and routines in their home environment. ex. consistent wake up, play, meals, rest, and bedtimes routines.
What curriculum are you using?
We will be using an emergent curriculum when we are out in the woods on our daily explorations. We will allow the children’s interests to lead their learning, so we will not have predetermined lesson plans for each day. Research shows us that if a child is interested in a topic then they will internalize so much more about a subject. If the children become interested in a decaying log, we will explore it. We will ask questions about the process to get them thinking about what has caused the log to be in that state. We will make observations about insects that are present, if the log is wet or dry, and how long it takes the log to decompose, in order to extend their knowledge of natural processes. They will use engineering and problem solving skills to build structures for quiet or pretend play while out in the woods. We will sing songs and read books under the shade of trees. We will climb on fallen logs and swing from limbs to gain age appropriate motor skills.
For children who are interested in writing we will create activities in the dirt with sticks and stones to create letters or practice copying them. What the natural world gives us to expand knowledge is endless! These are only a few of the activities your child will be engaged in while attending nature school. We also have an indoor space that will be used for quiet/rest time as well as inclement weather when needed. As teachers we will be facilitators of learning, taking our lead from the interests of our students.
We believe that all children develop at their own pace and that they learn through play, our program will be set up to meet those fundamental needs. With our small class sizes, teachers are able to really focus on each child’s needs. We feel like the social and emotional support we are able to provide to kiddos is our greatest benefit. Laying the foundation for “root” skills that all of us need to function within our communities.
What does the daily schedule look like?
Do you provide snacks and meals?
Snacks and meals are not provided for students.
Are there early drop off and late pick up options available?
Depending on need each year, we will determine if we can offer after school care.
What should my child bring each day?
Your child should come dressed in weather appropriate clothing each day. They should have a lunch, snacks, water bottle, and a change of clothes in their backpack upon arrival to school. Each child will need a nap mat that will be sent home weekly. We ask that you send your child in an insulated outdoor pair of boots (we highly recommend Bogs) for exploring each day. We provide families with a supply list each year of gear items needed to participate in the program. This includes winter gear that we have found the most helpful in our experience over the years.
What indoor space is available in bad weather?
We have a building that is licensed by the state of Arkansas for use during inclement weather and during the required rest time for the day.
Do you have medical staff on duty?
We do not have medical staff on duty during the school day, but all teachers will be required to have current CPR certification and 50% of staff are shallow water lifeguard trained.
What does communication with families look like?
Our staff send out a monthly newsletter to update families on what we have been up to. Our program also uses the Storypark app to communicate daily needs as well as tracking learning for each child in the program. Our staff create a digital portfolio of stories about what your child has learned while at Ferncliff Nature Preschool.
How is Spiritual Development incorporated into the program?
The focus of this program is the connection between the child and nature. We aim to provide our young learners with many experiences communing with creation and learning about the interconnectedness of the natural world during their formative years. Like our summer camp programs, the Nature Preschool welcomes families and children from all faith traditions. Ferncliff itself is a Presbyterian-related organization. We feel that wonder, curiosity, and awe are the foundations of any spiritual walk and nature preschool works to build those skills everyday.
Is this program a certified child care center?
The program is licensed by the Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education.
My child has allergies and special dietary needs, can you accommodate them?
Ferncliff is a nut aware organization. You will provide your child’s snacks and lunch so you will be able to address food allergies or dietary needs. Our program is a nature immersion program requiring children to be outside the majority of their day. Please keep this in mind if your child suffers from severe seasonal allergies.
Can your staff accommodate special needs children?
We will accommodate any child that we feel we can safely meet his/her educational needs.
Can I come for a tour and meet the staff?
Absolutely! Click here to fill out an application and set up an enrollment visit.
Ferncliff Nature Preschool Application 2023-24 School Year
