What is an Outdoor Preschool?

Our outdoor preschool program functions like a school in the sense that we have teacher-led, structured time throughout the day that focuses on standards based curriculum goals. However, all of our curriculum comes directly from what we witness happening outdoors coupled with the children’s interests. All of our learning is rooted in our parks and our children. We also differ from a more “traditional” indoor preschool because we hold space for ample child-led free play every day. And, most obviously, we don’t have a building! We spend the full school day outside, every day.

*When the weather simply isn’t safe to be outside, we implement an inclement weather plan.

If you are curious to learn more about Outdoor Preschools check out this article & video from REI.

What does it mean to be in a co-op?

At River Oak, we build a strong and tight knit community through co-op events and family participation. We ask folks to self-identify ways that they can support the Co-op. Currently, we have Co-op Committees and each family chooses which Committee best suits their strengths. We ask that folks dedicate a certain amount of time supporting the work of the Committee they have chosen.

*We do offer the option for families to opt out of participation.

Do you have an indoor space?

No, we do not! However, we have specifically chosen our neighborhood because there are many public indoor spaces within walking distance at all times (with bathroom facilities, of course!).

What do you do in the winter?

In the winter we gear up and get out there! To stay warm we:

• Use electric handwarmers

• Offer hot tea

• Utilize a tent for a cozy book nook, and to eat lunch

• Take warm up breaks indoors & visit local indoor spaces, such as the library

• Go on long walks

• Make sure each child has the correct gear at drop off

What about gear?

We offer comprehensive gear guides and individualized support to help ensure your child has the proper gear to be outside all day long! If you need assistance acquiring the gear, we are happy to work with you to provide financial support or lend you the gear your child needs from our school gear library. Currently, we have class sets of a few key pieces of gear that we loan out seasonally to all families.