Frequently asked questions.

Can my child visit before enrolling?

Yes! We offer trial classes to give children a chance to experience nature and the benefits of our program. During their visit we will monitor a child’s ability to follow instructions and stay with the group. Please ask about scheduling a drop-in class.

What is the minimum length of committed time you are hoping for from each family?

Our Preschool/Kindergarten program is 10-months long, while we expect children to complete the year, if for whatever reason you need to cancel your child's enrollment at our school, please email jtcano@ucdavis.edu. We just ask for notice to be given at least 30 days in advance. 

What are the plans for inclement weather?

Our programs are outdoors rain or shine. As long as children are dressed appropriately, they can learn a lot from most weather conditions. For sudden bursts of strong wind/rain, we will take cover in designated shelters. See our Family Handbook for more information. In cases of severe weather, we will follow DPS weather cancellations.

How does outdoor preschool prepare my child for kindergarten?

Embracing an inquiry-based teaching methodology, our children develop the social, emotional, and academic skills needed to thrive in kindergarten and life. For detailed information about what the scientific research shows and Kindergarten readiness, please visit our Home, Teaching Philosophy, and Outdoor Preschools pages.

What should my child wear?

Parents should expect children to get dirty after a day spent exploring the outdoors! Because the outdoors can get wet, (really wet sometimes!), our fully-enrolled preschoolers will be provided with a waterproof Trail Rain Suit. They will also receive a highly visible backpack with a built in safety whistle to use throughout the school year. Please prepare your child with the proper attire for the day and season. For a detailed description of our outdoor policy and dressing your child for the different seasons, especially winter, please refer to our Family Handbook.

What should my child bring?

Children should bring a water bottle, a healthy snack & lunch, as well as extra clothes including layers, fleece, shoes, socks, and other items to warm up in case a child gets uncomfortably wet/chilly. Please see our Family Handbook for detailed information. You may also choose to send sunscreen and bug spray. No toys please.

Where’s the bathroom?

We encourage our children to use nature's potty. For emergencies we carry a portable potty. Potty training is not required. Please have them visit the bathroom prior to drop off.

What are licensing requirements?

Many states including NC do not currently license outdoor preschools. This limits us to a 4 hour program.

What is the curriculum?

Our daily 4-hour curriculum will focus on pre-K readiness with an emphasis on social and emotional development.

What holidays/breaks are observed?

We are planning on following DPS schedule for major holidays and breaks with possibility for care during breaks.

Do you offer refunds if my child misses class?

We don't offer any refunds for when students miss class. 

How much is tuition?

Tuition is $750 per month. See our Enrollment and Tuition page for more information.

What will be the required notification period if/when families need to discontinue care, either partly or in full?

We ask for a months notice.

What is your vaccination policy?

We require students to have the following standard immunizations before starting the program: 3 each of Polio and DTaP, 2 Hep B, 1 MMR or MMRV, and 1 Hib.

How do you communicate with parents?

Weekly newsletters with photos and topics of interest from class will be sent out for families to enjoy together. We encourage you to use this opportunity to discuss the week’s adventures with your children and solidify their learning. 

What is your student privacy policy?

Families are asked not to post class photos of other children on social media. We use as few photos as possible for marketing and will first obtain permission from parents.