Our Philosophy

Early childhood is a key stage of development that shapes how children perceive and interact with the world around them. At Cairn Hill Nature Preschool at Camp Fire North Shore we strive to provide a sensory-rich environment for young children to be able to safely discover that world.

We allow ample time for exploration of nature to foster in our young students  an appreciation for the earth and its creatures, and to delve into science at their own level.

We believe that when children spend time outdoors, they develop a sense of place, which in turn fosters a sense of belonging and a budding conviction that they have an impact on the world around them.

Our time in nature is balanced by classroom time learning of  pre-academic skills, which are presented artistically and creatively to assure kindergarten readiness. We interweave a Waldorf early childhood ‘wonder’ curriculum of arts, music, rhyme and storytelling with explicit and engaging learning in early literacy and math skills, satisfying the common core standards. We offer plenty of time for creative play to develop social skills, problem solving and imagination, the seat of creativity.  

At Cairn Hill Nature Preschool we believe that both the environment and the adults around a child shape how they relate to themselves and to others. Through the caring relationships that develop between peers and teachers, we hope to plant the seeds of respect for others and love for humanity which can accompany our students as they navigate life as young persons and as adults.

Above all, we seek to develop a lifelong joy of learning in our young students.