Nature Kids Preschool

Nature Kids offers a safe and welcoming environment for preschoolers to develop social, communication, and motor skills.

Nature Kids offers a safe and welcoming environment for preschoolers to develop social, communication, and motor skills.

Nature Kids Program

At Nature Kids, we believe that children thrive through hands-on exploration, curiosity-driven discovery, and meaningful connections with the natural world. Our nature-based program immerses children in outdoor experiences that engage all their senses, fostering a deep appreciation for nature while building essential skills for lifelong learning.

Using a nature-based curriculum, we create a positive and supportive environment where children are encouraged to play, create, explore, express ideas, and problem solve. By adopting a strength-based approach, we observe the world through each child’s perspective and adapt our teaching strategies to meet their unique needs. We focus on what children can do and how we can support them to reach their full potential in a nurturing and inclusive environment.

To ensure a comprehensive understanding of each child’s development, we get to know them individually and use documentation to identify their strengths. Guided by the Oregon Early Learning Division (ELD) Guidelines, we establish clear goals for learning and development that bridge early education and kindergarten. These guidelines encompass areas of development that emphasize practices that are developmentally appropriate, culturally responsive, and linguistically inclusive, honoring the diverse needs of children and families. We continue to evaluate and enhance our program and curriculum following the North American Association for Environmental Education Guidelines for Excellence and the Nature-Based Program Assessment Tool and Guidebook from Minnesota Children and Nature Connection.

Classes for 3-4 year olds provide a positive first school experience, focusing on developing social-emotional and cooperative play skills as they practice routines, listening to directions, and sharing. Children continue to grow their skills in the 4-5 year old class and build a strong foundation for entering kindergarten the following year.

This program is offered through the Tualatin Hills Nature Center and takes place at the Tualatin Hills Nature Center and the Jenkins Estate Gatehouse.

-For this program, children MUST be able to use the restroom independently before entering preschool. Pull-ups are not acceptable.

-Children must be the correct age by September 1st.

-Programs run September through May but students may enroll mid-school year.

-Tuition is paid on a monthly basis and is due by the 15th of the month prior (example: November tuition is due by October 15th). If payment is received after the 15th, a late fee of $30 will be charged. Tuition is eligible for Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) payments. For more information please visit: https://www.oregon.gov/delc/programs/pages/erdc.aspx.

For more information or to enroll, please contact Rachel Fort, Environmental Education Program Coordinator at r.fort@thprd.org or by calling the Tualatin Hills Nature Center (503) 629-6350.

2025-26 Preschool Class Information:

The following programs are held at the Tualatin Hills Nature Center located at 15655 SW Millikan Way, Beaverton, OR:

Chipmunks (Ages 3 to 4)
• T/TH 9 am - 11:30 am
• Cost: $290 monthly tuition

Ladybugs (Ages 4 to 5)
• M/W/F 8:30 am - 11:30 am
• Cost: $398 monthly tuition

Owls (Ages 4 to 5)
• M/W/F 1 pm - 4 pm
• $398 monthly tuition

The following programs are held at the Jenkins Estate Gatehouse located at 8005 SW Grabhorn Rd., Beaverton OR:

Hummingbirds (Ages 3 to 4)
• T/TH 9 am - 11:30 am
•$290 monthly tuition

Dragonflies (Ages 4 to 5)
• M/W/F 9 am - 12 pm
• Cost: $398 monthly tuition

Watch the THPRD Preschool Virtual Open House for the 2025-26 School Year

Other Nature Center Preschool Programs

Nature Kids Preschool Explorers

Embark on a weekly outdoor adventure filled with songs, stories, art, and imaginative play. Each session fosters curiosity, friendships, and a connection to the natural world. This is a drop off program for children of preschool age, without adult participation, ideal for those new to preschool or seeking a once-a-week enrichment experience. Offered at the Tualatin Hills Nature Center and Cooper Mountain Nature Park

Adult Participation Classes for Preschoolers

Get outside, meet other families, and explore the wildlife on these nature adventures. These adult participation preschool programs require an adult to attend and are offered at the Tualatin Hills Nature Center or Cooper Mountian Nature Park and include Knee High Naturalists, Creature Features, Pequeños Naturalistas, and Art in Nature.