Best practice and kindergarten-readiness research shows that children learn best when they have the opportunity to be hands-on with classroom materials and participate in small group activities with other children and a teacher. Nature education adds immeasurably to social skills and physical coordination. We incorporate these practices every day and do our best to make sure we are using research-based teaching methods.
Greenhouse Nature School adopts the growing nature education movement in a part of the world where rural preschoolers can learn in their own environment—growing vegetables, using tools to move earth, rocks, water and other local materials.
Teachers don’t use time-outs or other punishments, just consequences that naturally arise. (For example, if a child won’t put her boots on, she won’t be able to participate in the activities outside.)
At Greenhouse Nature School, children are able to explore and learn outdoors year-round (well, almost! This is Wisconsin!). We cultivate a community that supports children’s curiosity, imagination, and social skills, while also forming deep connections to nature. We create a home where children take pride in caring for their environment and themselves. Every day, we use routines that accentuate kids’ natural impulses: loving to learn, focusing on tasks, being helpful.