Discovery Woods Preschool, a nature-based preschool and after school education facility, will open at 67 St. Francis Ave. in Tiffin this month. The non-profit program aims to prepare children from 18 months to 5 years for school, teaching traditional childhood education combined with a nature-based approach.
Discovery Woods Preschool offers several programs in a nature based curriculum with an emphasis on project based learning in the areas of science, technology, engineering, art, and math.
The school is split into four different programs:
- Caterpillar Cove - Infant/Toddler Program for children 18 - 30 months - Provides children a positive environment to explore with the guidance and support of an infant toddler teacher who designs developmentally appropriate lessons to help children become more familiar with their world. Staff encourage communication, walking, exploring, and learning.
- Butterfly Landing - Preschool class for children 2.5 - 3 years - Introduces children to flexible routines with circle time, small group work, and center based exploration to develop their project based interests. Activities include dramatic play areas - such as a grocery store, hair salon, or flower shop - building with blocks and natural items, water table exploration, painting, and science lessons. Part Time and Full Day Program available.
- Rainbow Path - Kindergarten Readiness Program for children 4 - 5 years - Encompasses more structured play based routines with two circle times, small group and a morning work time to prepare children for Kindergarten. Children will be introduced to the Pre-K Ohio Department of Education Content Standards. They will learn the alphabet, letter sounds, patterns, numbers, and reading basic color and sight words. This program also includes the project approach where children participate in a year long project or two based on their interests, which guide the teachers lessons. The children's projects are displayed at the end of the year Watch Me Work at Night event.
- Tree Top Trail - After School Enrichment for students K-5th grade - Includes tutoring in a child's specific area of need, engaging STEAM projects such as creating robots, drawing in 3D, and tending to the school garden.
The staff is trained in childhood development and first aid, and the Kindergarten Readiness Program is taught by educators with an Elementary Teaching license. All staff also participate in continuing education classes related to the growth and development of the age level they teach.
While their official grand opening and family open house is set for August 12, families are invited to participate in a nature scavenger hunt at Hedges-Boyer Park on August 5 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. for a day of fun and to learn more about the programs.
For more information, visit their
website.
