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Welcome to
Nature's Child Preschool!
Northbrook's Premier
Home-Based Preschool for Children 2-5 Years Old
Your child will make friends, have fun, and get ready for kinder!
The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) creates the standards for high-quality preschool programs. We’re proud to say our preschool meets all of NAEYC’s 10 Standards for High-Quality Preschool Programs.
Meet Your Teacher:
Miss Amanda!
Hi there!
As a fellow parent and educator, I understand the journey you're on. Finding that perfect spot where your child can grow, learn, and flourish feels monumental. That's why I want to welcome you to Nature’s Child Preschool—not just as a place of learning but as a community where we truly believe it takes a village to raise a child.
When I first dreamed of the best educational path for my own children; Hailey, Ethan, and Riley - the idea of home-based education held a special allure. It promised not only a personal touch and a gentle pace but also a deep connection to the natural world, something traditional settings often overlook. Although life didn’t quite allow me to homeschool, it inspired me to fulfill a broader mission: creating Nature’s Child, a preschool that embodies the essence of home learning's warmth and individual care, all within a structured educational framework enriched by nature.
Our hearts and our home are open to your family. Here, nestled with my husband Josh and our lively bunch, we've woven an educational experience that marries the intuitive with the intellectual, blending nature’s spontaneity with nurtured growth. With over 19 years in early childhood education, evolving from a peer mentor to the proud director and owner of Nature’s Child, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of a setting that feels like home and reveres the natural world.
This home-based approach, intertwined with our focus on nature, is our cornerstone. We believe in an education that goes beyond academics—it’s about cultivating curiosity, empathy, and the joy of discovery in a setting as welcoming as your family's living room. We're committed to providing an environment where your child can explore, play, and learn about the natural world, supported by a curriculum that’s as dynamic and diverse as our environment.
Choosing the right preschool is a journey filled with hopes, questions, and dreams. I’ve been there, and I want to assure you that at Nature’s Child, we’re dedicated to making this experience as rewarding and reassuring for you as it is enriching for your child.
Thank you for considering us in your search. We're excited to potentially be a part of your child’s story and look forward to the possibility of welcoming you to our extended family.
Warmest regards,
Amanda Smith
Director and Owner
Nature’s Child Preschool
Our Mission
Our Mission is to foster a nurturing and engaging environment that bridges the warmth of home-based education with the enriching embrace of the natural world. We are committed to cultivating young minds through a holistic curriculum that encourages curiosity, empathy, and a lifelong love of learning. Together, as a tight-knit community of educators and families, we strive to prepare our children not just for kindergarten, but for a future where they can thrive as thoughtful, compassionate, and environmentally conscious individuals.
Our Vision
Our vision for Nature’s Child Preschool is to evolve into an immersive homestead where children learn and grow in harmony with nature. Starting from our current backyard, which hosts a delightful children's garden and chickens, we dream of expanding to a land abundant with crops, gardens, animals, and nature trails. This envisioned space will offer children unparalleled hands-on experiences to cultivate their ecological identity and prepare for their educational journey through real-life curriculum applications. We are dedicated to shaping future generations who are not only ready for kindergarten but are also environmentally conscious, compassionate, and deeply connected to the practical wisdom of living closely with nature. Join us as we work towards making this vision a reality.
Top 10 Reasons You'll Love Us
Check Out Our Premier Program!
#1: We’re a Family!
We want to get to know your family, so please invite your whole family to attend our free fun family events all year long! Family is always welcome to volunteer in our classroom and at any of our events or field trips!
#2: You'll gain community!
Our friendly group of families will help you feel wanted, needed, and appreciated. Many attend local events together and have made lasting friendships. Having others in the same stage of parenting is an unmatched benefit of our small community.
#3: Your Child will Make Close Friends Too!
Our small classes of just 6 children allows your child to be comfortable and grow valuable friendships with the other preschoolers. Because conflict-resolution skills are super vital to learn at this age, we help your child work through their problems with other children. Pretty soon they'll have built-in best buddies!
#4: Your child will be more than ready for Kindergarten!
Through our assessments and curriculum we will guide your child in the areas of growth and challenge them when they’re ready for more. Our balance of teacher-directed and child-initiated hands-on nature activities follows the NAEYC guidelines to strengthen your whole child’s development.
#5: We keep your child healthy & safe!
Teaching children is a huge responsibility, and we take that responsibility seriously! Not only are we state licensed and CPR/1st Aid Certified, but our distinct policies and procedures regarding health and safety help to keep your child in a safe, clean environment. We’re constantly cleaning, washing hands, and monitoring all activities to prevent any accidents.
#6: Your child will love our preschool!
I'll help your child come out of his/her shell, gain self confidence, and grow in all areas of development. I'm excited to help your child grow and learn!
#7: All of our events are free!
To extend our learning we go on several field trips each year, and you get to join your child on them. We’ve gone to places like: the Zoo, Lambs Farm, Apple Orchard, Police Station, Fire Station, Popcorn Store, Grocery Store, Pumpkin Patch, and more! We’ll also celebrate special occasions with parties for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, and your child’s birthday!
#8: Your child gets a shirt and portfolio!
Each year, your child will receive a different t-shirt for that school year to wear on Spirit Days. Some of our families have been with us so long they are t-shirt collectors! We also save some of your child’s artwork for a special portfolio you get at graduation.
#9: We help you preserve memories!
We offer you the opportunity to enrich your preschool experience by enjoying book orders, school pictures, class pictures, graduation pictures, cap ‘n gown pictures, and an end-of-the-year graduation video.
#10: We offer Summer Camp!
Embark on an epic journey through Nature in and around Northbrook! Join us for an action-packed summer filled with thrilling expeditions and educational FUN!
Choose Your Preschool Class:
You can choose from a variety of our preschool classes to better accommodate your family’s schedule. Whether you want your child to attend 2, 3, or 5 days/week at preschool, we have a class for you!
2 DAYS / WEEK:
T_TH
Tuition: $480/month
Reg. Fee: $100
9am-3pm
3 DAYS / WEEK:
MWF
Tuition: $640/month
Reg. Fee: $100
9am-3pm
5 DAYS / WEEK:
M-F
Tuition: $1,000/month
Reg. Fee: $100
9am-3pm
What is your teaching philosophy?
At Nature's Child Preschool, our teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that education should be a holistic, immersive experience that nurtures the whole child. We believe that the early years of education are critical for instilling a lifelong love of learning, curiosity about the natural world, and a strong sense of ecological identity. Our approach is built on three foundational pillars:
1. Connection with Nature: We integrate the natural world into every aspect of our curriculum, providing children with daily opportunities to explore, discover, and learn from the environment around them. This hands-on interaction with nature fosters environmental stewardship, teaches respect for all living things, and encourages a healthy, active lifestyle.
2. Holistic Development: Recognizing that each child is a unique individual, we tailor our educational approach to meet their physical, emotional, social, and cognitive needs. Through a blend of structured activities and free play, children develop critical thinking skills, empathy, and self-confidence. Our curriculum is designed to prepare children for kindergarten and beyond, emphasizing real-life applications and problem-solving skills.
3. Community and Family Engagement: We view education as a collaborative journey that involves educators, families, and the community. By creating a tight-knit community of support, we ensure that children feel safe, valued, and part of a larger family. Our home-based setting allows for personalized attention and fosters a sense of belonging and inclusivity.
As we work towards our vision of evolving into an immersive homestead, our teaching philosophy will continue to emphasize sustainability, practical life skills, and the integration of homestead activities into our curriculum. We are committed to providing an education that not only prepares children academically but also empowers them to become compassionate, environmentally conscious global citizens.
At Nature’s Child Preschool, we're not just teaching children; we're nurturing the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and guardians of the Earth.
How many students do you have per class?
We have the smallest class sizes in town so your child gets lots of 1-on-1 time. We only have 6 students per class!
When should I call to register my child?
It’s never too early to call, so call as soon as you even think about registering, because our classes fill up ridiculously fast!
When does preschool start? Can I enroll mid-year?
We have a 10-month school year (Aug.-May) and a 2-month summer camp (June-July). If we have spots available, you can enroll mid-year. Please call us to see if we have any spots available.
How old does my child need to be to attend?
Preschool classes are for children who are ages 3-5 (and "independent almost-3-year-olds") by Sep. 1.
Does my child have to be potty trained?
Yes. If you have any questions about whether or not your child is ready, feel free to give us a call. We even have a “How To Potty Train” your child handout we can give you. It’s helped many preschool moms quickly potty train their kids. We’re here to help!
Are there additional fees during the year?
No. Your registration fee covers all your child’s supplies and reserves a spot in our program. Your child won’t pay anything to attend our field trips and activities. And your family can come for free too! Your child will also receive at no extra cost: a preschool shirt to wear on Spirit Day and a graduation portfolio!
What if my child has food restrictions?
We understand the importance of ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for every child, especially when it comes to food restrictions and allergies. In fact, our own daughter has food intolerances, which has made us even more aware and prepared to handle such situations with the utmost care. Our home is a peanut-free zone, and we are committed to accommodating any dietary requirements your child may have, whether they relate to allergies, intolerances, or other specific dietary needs. We work closely with parents to understand and implement individual dietary plans, ensuring that all children can enjoy safe and nutritious snacks and meals while at our preschool.
Is the registration fee refundable?
The registration fee is a necessary part of securing your child's spot at Nature's Child Preschool and helps us prepare for their arrival by allocating resources, materials, and planning for our unique, nature-based curriculum. Because these preparations involve upfront costs, we are unable to offer refunds on the registration fee.
How do I register my child?
Follow our simple 3-step process below to register your child into our preschool!
A Day in the Life at Our Preschool
Your child will develop ALL the skills needed for success and will be more than ready for kindergarten!
Check Out Everything We Do Each Preschool Class!
Circle Time
We practice our communication skills and make friends.
Snack Time
We practice our manners and social skills.
Recess Time
We practice our gross motor skills indoors and outdoors.
Story Time
We practice our literacy and rhyming skills.
And Each Day We Play In Our Learning Centers Too!
Writing Skills
We practice our letter and number writing skills.
Reading Center
We practice our pre-reading skills and read lots of stories.
Music Center
We practice our rhythm and repetition skills.
Sensory Center
We practice our fine motor skills with our hands.
Math Center
We practice our sorting, shapes, and colors.
Science Center
We practice our problem solving skills using science.
Art Center
We practice our creativity and fine motor skills.
Building Center
We practice our construction and math skills.
PLUS A SPECIAL BONUS JUST FOR YOU:
In addition to our amazing in-person preschool classes... During the school year, you'll also get access to Preschool Club for FREE! It's our safe, online library of 600+ engaging preschool classes with our certified, worldwide preschool teachers! Simply click play... and your child will have fun learning at home or on the go!
Click play below to learn about our Preschool Club!
Testimonials
The greatest compliment we can receive is your referral. Thank you!
B. Baker
"This is the best place for your kids! Ms. Amanda is incredibly knowledgeable, caring, and creative."
M. Aviello
"My youngest goes here and we absolutely love it. Ms Amanda is amazing and my daughter's favorite person."
P. Steiner
"Miss Amanda conducts a structured program that will prepare your child for their entry into kindergarten. Her many years in the industry have given her unmatched professionalism. I highly recommend."
T. Berger
"Amanda is by far the best of the best. My kids love attending her activities. I would highly recommend her to anyone interested in sending their child. We love Nature's Child."
L. Marie
"Our son was excited to have fun each day. This has got to be hands down one of the best. We just fell in love with Amanda and her family. Excited to return for more adventures soon."
F. Emmert
"Miss Amanda is one of the few people that I trust to leave my children with! She is very attentive to the kids and treats them like family!"
HOW TO REGISTER IN OUR PRESCHOOL:
Due to high demand, our classes fill up ridiculously fast. Follow our simple 3-step process below to register your child into our preschool.
STEP 1:
Call to Reserve Your Spot and Take a Tour
Call us today at (847) 305-0958 to reserve your spot and take a tour. Let us know you saw our website promo to save 50% on your registration fee!
STEP 2:
Schedule Your Tour to Register Your Child
At the end of our call, we'll ask you to schedule a tour so we can tell you all about us and ensure we're a good fit.
STEP 3:
Register Your Child During Your Tour
At the end of our tour, we'll ask if you'd like your child to attend our preschool. If so, you'll fill out the registration form and pay the registration fee.
Summer Camp!
June 10th, 2024 - August 9th, 2024
Overview
Nature's Child Preschool Camp offers a unique, nature-focused summer experience, blending ecological learning with academic growth. Our program nurtures children as future stewards of the Earth, preparing them for kindergarten in a holistic manner.
Key Features
Nature Exploration: Children engage in immersive play and discovery in nature, fostering a lifelong connection with the environment.
Academic Development: We integrate essential kindergarten skills required by the state of Illinois all while having fun!
Environmental Responsibility: We emphasize the importance of respecting and caring for nature, instilling values of environmental stewardship in young minds.
Summer Camp Options
🮖 Tuesday and Thursday 9am-3pm $120/Wk
🮖 Monday, Wednesday, & Friday 9am-3pm $160/Wk
🮖 Monday through Friday 9am-3pm $250/Wk
Or
CONTACT US
We would love to answer all your questions and tell you more about us.
You may reach us by calling or texting:
(847) 305-0958
You can also email us at:
amanda@natureschildpreschool.com
We are conveniently located at:
1105 Midway Rd
Northbrook, IL 60062
© Nature's Child Preschool
Contact Us: amanda@natureschildpreschool.com