Wild Beginnings

About Us

Our Mission

At Wild Beginnings, we partner with the land to provide a safe, nurturing environment that supports whole child development. Rooted in play-based learning and land-centered rhythms, we inspire curiosity, creativity, and connection.

Our Philosophy

At Wild Beginnings Forest School, we believe that nature is the best teacher. We offer unique outdoor learning experiences that focus on environmental education, outdoor activities, and fostering a deep connection with nature. Our holistic approach to education combines nature immersion, art experiences, and community gathering to provide a well-rounded learning environment for children. We have a low teacher-to-student ratio and focus on social-emotional learning to ensure that each child receives individualized attention and support.

Our Values

Rooted in the land

Nature is our greatest teacher. Our program is land-centered which means our curriculum and rhythms are direct reflections of the happenings in nature. We hold space for emergent learning through direct experience of the land, encouraging both child-directed and teacher-guided play and exploration. In this way, we encourage feelings of belonging, respect and connection.

Nurturing connection

We love nurturing children’s innate ability to connect with animals, plants, and the living Earth- fostering compassion and respect for all life. Through stories, songs and listening practices, we encourage children to explore different perspectives and ways of being. We seek to illuminate the interconnectedness of life, cultivate gratitude, and build conscious relationships with self, others, and the natural world.

Guided by curiosity

Our curriculum holds space for the emergence and delight that occurs when children are given the freedom to follow their curiosity. Learning occurs through direct experience, creative problem solving and taking healthy risks. Our balanced approach includes both self-directed and teacher-led explorations. The teachers act as role models, guides, and observers of the student’s learning journey.

Holistic health and safety

We prioritize the health and safety of our students and land. Our teachers are trained in first-aid and CPR, and follow safety protocols to minimize the inherent risk of nature-based programs. We also prioritize environmental health and sustainability, and we teach our students the importance of respecting and caring for the natural world.

Our Teachers

At Wild Beginnings Forest School, our 6:1 student-to-teacher ratio ensures a personalized, holistic learning environment. Our team is made up of two experienced teachers with diverse backgrounds in early-childhood education, nature connection, forestry and environmental science and holistic health. We are dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing environment in which children can learn and grow. Come rain or shine, we prioritize role modeling kindness, curiosity, and optimism, grounded in an in-depth understanding of child development.

Co-director, Lead teacher

Mariah B.

With over a decade of experience in early childhood education, Mariah brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team. She is passionate about creating a learning environment that fosters a deep connection with nature and encourages children to explore their innate curiosity.

Co-director, Lead teacher

Kathryn J.

Kathryn is excited to work in partnership with the land to co-create a unique forest preschool program, drawing from her diverse background in Forestry and Environmental Science, dance and movement studies, and nature-based early childhood education. She comes to this work after spending the last two years in various roles as a mentee, assistant, and co-facilitator of two nature-based early childhood programs.