Nurture House is happy to be in the company of several quality childcare programs in the North Hills. We converted an above-garage apartment specifically to develop it into a pre-kindergarten. We think the property is very magical, and we believe it will become even more spectacular as we continue to grow and incorporate the children's input. What might make us a little different is that the children get to be "in-charge" of what they're learning. One thing I love about Reggio Emilia is that as a teacher I get to stay fully present. When children decide the direction of a lesson, I get to find creative ways to incorporate the skills and practices that nurture their confidence, so every cohort is truly different. Sometimes people hear "play-based" and think children aren't engaged in meaningful learning, however the fundamentals are woven into their play. Play is the work of childhood, as Mister Rogers says. Speaking of Fred, another highlight of this philosophy, for me, is how naturally accepting, tolerant, and loving it allows us all to be. In this type of program, each child's ideas and interests are honored and celebrated. 

Beyond the emergent curriculum (which means there is no prescribed curriculum), I deeply value relationships, community and cooperation, so, students' families and other community members will play a huge role at Nurture House. Sharing talents, hobbies, interests, or areas of expertise is encouraged. Additionally, birthdays and holidays allow families to engage with the whole class so special cultural traditions can be shared and celebrated. I really want the children to feel like they truly know one another, and I want their families to feel supported by this community beyond their time at Nurture House. 

Besides the Town of McCandless saying so, ha, this number feels appropriate for the safety and individualized attention for each child's needs as the sole teacher in the space. 

While the rhythm of each day is flexible, children can expect two daily meeting times to deliver lessons, discuss investigations (topics of interest to be explored), practice mindfulness, and touch base on emotional and mental health. Free play is always offered throughout the day, as well as time outdoors in almost any weather. Opportunities for art, creativity, and sensory play are always available. 

 I have been working in early childhood education since 2005 in various roles, most notably as an educator and a nanny. I also hold a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling. I have received extensive training in mindfulness education and positive discipline and continue to take professional development and continuing education courses to maintain best practices. 

We are enrolling children aged 3.5 (confidently toilet trained) to 5 years old. 

Nurture House is situated on a large plot on Perry Highway, right over the hill from McKnight Elementary and Carson Middle School. The school house is set far back from the highway, nestled into the forest. We have a grassy area for running around, a large enclosed garden space where we will learn to grow food, and we’ve been adding new outdoor play areas throughout the property. We’re also continuing to work on the forest itself, creating little spaces, trails, and touches that make it feel even more magical and inviting for the children to explore.

Since this is our first year, we’re excited to open the space to our families and see how the children naturally use the land so we can continue adding features that nurture their curiosity. We plan to create a wildlife pond and dry creek bed in the near future. This year, we’ll also be working to connect our school to the library by creating trails that lead to a safe crossing area on a school-zoned street.

The inside feels very much like a cottage home, inspired by our love for New England, with honest materials and natural elements throughout. While we had to renovate much of the space, we tried to maintain its natural charm. We have a fully equipped kitchen, where the children will often help prepare meals, as well as a full bathroom and laundry area, because as a nature school, mud happens. A lot. We want the space to feel like a true home away from home.

The best feature of the property is our official school mascot, Reuben the Poodle! Children will have supervised visits with Reuben after a family meet and greet and signed waivers.

Tours of the space are available by appointment only. To schedule one, email hello@heretonurture.com.