Notchcliff Forest Preschool is a joyful way for young children, ages 3-5 to play and explore nature. This is a drop-off program led by two caring teacher guides with a maximum of 12 children. Class options include Mon./Wed. Chickadees class, Tues./Thurs. Spotted Fawns class, or Friday Foxes class from 9:30-12:30 p.m. Because we are a forest preschool, we are immersed in nature! 100% of our class time takes place outdoors.  (In case of sudden severe weather or emergency, we have access to a classroom in the main building of Glen Meadows Retirement Community.)

Community Building: Place-based education nurtures the very roots that connect us to our community, which is why our focus is on discovering local wildlife, traditions, culture, and natural history.  Each month, there are opportunities to join us in the forest classroom, attend events with Glen Meadows residents, or go on a local field trip. These special experiences encourage kinship among our learning community including our 'grand friends' at the retirement community. (See program calendar, which is sent in August before the start of the new school year.)

Tuition: We strive to keep rates affordable for families while offering a living wage for staff. Rates are based on what you might otherwise pay a babysitter. (approximately $12/hour). Please note that enrollment is for the full program year (Sept. 2022 - May 2023). When space is available, we offer a pro-rated January-May session.

Payment schedule: Initial, non-refundable payment is due upon enrollment. Second payment is due Nov. 1; third payment is due Feb. 1, and final payment is due Apr. 1. Reminders with individual balances will be sent approximately two weeks before payments are due.  If you join partway through the year, we will pro-rate your tuition. If you prefer monthly billing, we are happy to set it up for you.

Enrollment Requirements: Your child must be three years old by Sept. 1 of the program year s/he begins. Toilet-training is not required, but please let us know about this sensitive topic in advance so we can best support your child's needs.

We honor the diverse background and abilities of everyone in our learning community. We work closely with families to ensure that every child receives necessary accommodations to thrive. Please reach out to Monica if you have specific questions about our approach to inclusion director@erafans.org. 

Our Handbook, Family Agreement, and gear guide will be provided in your confirmation email. We look forward to amazing adventures with you and your child!