What is a micro-school?

Micro-schools have been gaining traction as a new educational model that prioritizes small class size and individualized learning. This progressive approach honors children as whole people and active participants in their education.

How small is TLP?

Our learning community consists of four children ranging in age from 3-5 years old. Deidre guides and supports learners on their educational journey utilizing an emergent, play-based curriculum.

A diverse group of “guest teachers” visit from time to time to share their gifts and deepen engagement around specific topics.

What is a nature preschool?

Nature preschools can take many different shapes and forms. Ours is a learning environment that is rooted in the local natural world. We lean on nature as the organizing principle to address both early child development and the development of an ecological identity — care and concern for the natural world. Nature becomes both the classroom and the teacher, and learning happens almost exclusively outdoors, where there are endless opportunities to grow and learn.

At TLP, children have the time and space to be children: exploring, jumping, balancing, climbing, solving problems, learning empathy, cooperating with others, playing, and the list goes on. In this way, children investigate the wonders of the surrounding landscape, while also discovering their inner landscape through meaningful relationships with mentors, peers, and Mother Earth.

Where are you located?

TLP is held in Deidre’s home, located just steps away from Tower Grove Park. There is a designated “school house” separate from the main living space where the indoor magic unfolds. Learners also have access to Deidre’s kitchen and garden, where regular cooking & baking projects take place. 

What are your program hours?

We meet Monday through Friday from 8am-4pm.
School begins in mid-August and runs through mid-May.

How much time is spent in nature?

Aside from indoor play during our drop-off window, our time together is spent exploring the wonders of Tower Grove Park and our backyard food forest. On average, we spend about six hours in nature each day.

Will my child be outside in inclement weather?

“There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.”

We take this saying to heart and ensure children are dressed appropriately for a full day in nature. We spend ample time outdoors in rain, snow, wind and sun — staying indoors only when temperatures are deemed unsafe by the Child Care Weather Watch.

Do you offer half-days?

Our learners at TLP bond through shared challenges and experiences, and from participation in meaningful rituals and routines. At this age, consistency is important and learners develop a strong sense of belonging and trust in the time we spend together. For these reasons, half-days are not offered at this time.

Do you provide lunch?

Due to the unique nature of this program, learners are required to bring their own lunch each day. However, snacks are provided and are always organic as well as free of dairy/gluten/processed sugar. When possible, children eat from the backyard garden. During winter months, we make every effort possible to purchase food items from local farmers. 

Thursdays are a dedicated day of culinary education where we prepare snack as a group utilizing ingredients from the garden.  

What about technology in the classroom?

TLP is a screen-free zone. We believe that young brains develop best in an environment that encourages children to actively explore, play, discover and connect with their community.

How do I enroll my child?

TLP will be closed until further notice while we relocate to Upstate New York. Please send all inquiries via our Connect Page.
Thank you!