Program Overview
We are focused on taking the best parts from a progressive school and combining them with the best parts of a forest school, creating something entirely new.
Our Forest Preschool program is designed to positively connect children with nature, through immersion programs that stimulate their curiosity about the natural world. Our educational philosophy is that there is no predetermined curriculum, but instead craft the curriculum from what the students collective show an interest in. If the way the leaves and water move through the air catches their attention, we will design classes around the wind, with activities like building wind chimes from objects found in our natural surroundings.
The goal is to tap into the children’s sense of wonder about nature and connect it through to science, math, pre-literacy, and the arts. The children’s learning arises through play, and ensures their interests are guiding their education. In this way, their learning will be meaningful.
What's Included
All-weather Muddy Buddy coverall to keep dry and warm.
Daily materials activities and learning, such as paints, buckets, shovels, hammers, fabrics, etc...
Class Size
We keep our class sizes small, with one teacher to every three children. This ensures every student is well looked after, keeping them safe, and getting the attention they may need.
Weather
Our classes run through all types of weather, making rain, snow, and sun all a part of our learning and play. If dangerous weather is in the forecast, families are informed of an alternative drop-off for that day, such as the town Library.
A sample day at Maplewood Outside School
9:00 AM -
Drop Off
As children arrive, they place their water bottles into our wagon, and wait for friends to arrive. Once together we walk while chatting about the surroundings or singing a song.
9:30 AM - Morning Circle
Introducing friends and discussing the days activities.
9:40 - Nature Exploration
A roll down a hill or a walk to find insects and little creatures. On a typical day we search for flowers, mushrooms and herbs.
10:30 - Snack and Story
Gathering to listen to a story and have a bite.
11:00 AM - Art and Craft
Creating with tools, and found materials. Students can make paintbrushes from leaves and sticks, work with clay or dig in the dirt.
Application Process
We are an outdoor-based educational program that is open to all children aged 2 to 5. We have three sessions and each accepts applications on a rolling basis, with priority to families who enroll their children for the school year. Application for the 2024-2025 school year will open on January 8th, 2024. Please note, due to the size of our school, classes fill quickly.
Following the receipt of application, we will contact the family to set up a tour and class visit. If and when an open space if identified the family will be contacted. A non-refundable deposit of $450 is due within 1 week of notification of acceptance. It is our policy to hold the place for 1 week following written notification and confirmed with receipt of the deposit. If the deposit is not received during this period, the place will be released. A child is not enrolled at MOS until a deposit is received.
Maplewood Outside school is open to all children ages 2 to 5 and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, gender expression, national origin, or disability.
Tuition
An initial non-refundable deposit in the amount of $450 is due upon enrollment to secure your child's place. The remaining payments are divided into either 3 or 10 installments over the course of the year beginning in August. Each family may choose the payment option that works best for them.