Nature Programs

Engaging outdoor activities fostering curiosity and love for learning.

Nature Preschool

Our full-time and part-time early learning nature preschool program immerses children in meaningful, hands-on experiences outdoors, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and deep-rooted connections to the natural world. Through daily exploration, seasonal rhythms, and child-led discovery, we nurture the whole child in an environment that fosters confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Homeschool Enrichment

As of January 2026, Oak Ridge Nature School will no longer be offering the Homeschool Enrichment (HSE) program on site. Instead, we are proud to partner with Mindfully Educated, a trusted homeschool support network, to continue serving families looking for enrichment opportunities, curriculum guidance, and a strong homeschool community. We highly encourage homeschool families to explore Mindfully Educated’s offerings, which align with our values of curiosity-driven, nature-based learning.

Summer Program

Our summer program continues the rhythm and values of our full-year nature preschool, offering enrolled school-year families an immersive, play-based experience throughout the summer months. Children spend their days 100% outdoors in safe weather, engaged in meaningful play, seasonal exploration, and hands-on nature-based activities that foster curiosity, confidence, and connection. This extended summer session is available to families enrolled in our school-year early childhood program as part of our year-round model.

MNECO Nest Programs

MNECO Nests are a local community that is inclusive of all educators and advocates with an interest in nature-based education.