Our Preschool Program

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Preschoolhood is a unique and enchanting phase in a child's journey, marked by a whirlwind of growth and discovery. It's a time when the young mind is a canvas, absorbing knowledge and experiences with unparalleled vigor. The uniqueness of the preschool years lies in the rapid development of cognitive abilities, blossoming language skills, and the emergence of a social awareness that shapes the foundation for future interactions. 

At Ancaster Forest & Nature School, we believe in a whole-child approach to learning where children are immersed in rich, nature-based learning environments intended to foster a sense of community and encourage interpersonal skills, problem solving, goal setting, creativity, autonomy, and self-accountability. 

Our preschool programs are mindfully designed for children ages 30 months- 4 years of age.  Operating with small class sizes, we prioritize a focused and personalized learning environment to nurture the holistic development of for each child. 

At Ancaster Forest & Nature School, we hold a deep belief in the profound value of immersing children in real-life, nature-based experiences each day. From the simple yet essential act of planting vegetable seeds in our garden to measuring ingredients for delightful snacks, and the exploration of the vast, diverse forest that envelops us, we offer rich and engaging environments. Our aim is to consistently connect children to the wonders of the natural world, aiding them in making sense of their surroundings.

This commitment extends through all weather conditions—rain, snow, or sunshine—placing us in our outdoor learning environments as frequently as possible. Guided by the curiosity of the children, our days unfold organically, resulting in a dynamic learning atmosphere. The majority of our time is spent outdoors, meandering through acres of forest, which includes seasonal wetlands, cold-water streams, and a breathtaking array of rare plants, birds, and wildlife.

Indoors, our learning spaces are thoughtfully crafted, featuring developmentally appropriate, Canadian-made materials. These spaces serve as ideal settings for engaging children in practical life skills like cooking and baking. They also offer a comfortable haven for rest and rejuvenation. At Ancaster Forest & Nature School, every day is an immersive exploration, allowing children to connect with nature, learn practical skills, and find solace in an environment crafted for both curiosity and comfort

At Ancaster Forest & Nature School, we recognize the benefits of family-style dining extend beyond the table—it’s a holistic approach to mealtime that shapes the development of valuable life skills. All snacks and meals are vegetarian and are provided by Wholesome Kids Catering. Each meal is seamlessly included in our programs and ensures a holistic and nourishing culinary experience for every child in our care. 

The foundations of best practices at Ancaster Forest & Nature School are underpinned by a robust framework informed by several research-based documents such as: 

• Forest and Nature School Canada: A Head, Heart, Hands Approach to Outdoor Learning (2014); 
• How Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years (2014); 
• Early Learning for Every Child Today: A Framework for Ontario Early Childhood Settings (2007); 
• Think Feel Act Document: Lessons for research about young children (2013);
• Child Care and Early Years Act of Ontario (2014)

As the city of Hamilton is not entering any new child care agreements at this time, we are not able to participate in the Canada Wide Early Learning and Child Care program.