Our nature-based preschool program combines hands-on exploration of Minnesota’s wildlife, weather, and seasons with Catholic faith-based lessons, nurturing a sense of wonder and gratitude for God’s creation. As children discover local animals and experience seasonal changes, they are guided to view these wonders through the lens of faith, learning about stewardship, respect, and kindness as part of God’s world.

Central to this program is loose parts play, where children use natural materials—such as sticks, rocks, leaves, and other found objects—to create, build, and explore freely. This form of play, integral to the nature-based experience, fosters creativity, problem-solving, and resilience, allowing children to make independent discoveries in an unstructured setting. Loose parts play encourages children to engage deeply with their environment, building motor skills, sensory awareness, and scientific curiosity. Together with our Catholic faith values, this approach to early learning nurtures not only academic and developmental growth but also a lifelong appreciation for God’s creation.