“Look deep, deep into nature and then you will understand everything better.”-Albert Einstein. Afton Nature School’s philosophy of early childhood education begins with a beautiful school environment of love, warmth, acceptance, and the understanding that each child is a special and unique individual. At Afton Nature School children ages 1-5 (to 7 in the summer) spend time breathing fresh air, bei
ng physically active and building an understanding of the world around them in our lush green playscape and on our 7 acres of nature trails. In a peaceful and stimulating environment Afton students create, develop and learn through play. Days are spent in our beautiful, rich classrooms and in our outdoor learning environments designed to challenge, support and celebrate childhood. Authentic learning and self-esteem develop when children grow organic foods in the school garden or bake fresh bread for snack. Afton’s respect for their young students is apparent in the use of high quality learning tools and authentic artist supplies. Afton Nature School uses the Reggio Approach to develop student interests into learning projects that educate and empower young learners. Teachers facilitate cooperation and collaboration skills that develop individuals that are comfortable leading, working, and socializing with others throughout life. While Afton assures that their students have mastered the learning objectives to transition to elementary school, they further value that the children have developed higher order thinking skills that will serve them throughout life. Small classes and teachers with high education levels assure the highest standards at the critical time when young children are forming their concepts of themselves as learners. Afton gives preschoolers a strong start educationally, physically and emotionally that will serve them long after they leave Afton Nature School.
