Orchard's Early Childhood Team

At The Orchard School, we believe that a progressive education engages the natural curiosity of students in child-centered and experiential learning environments.  The promise of “Nature as Teacher” at Orchard extends the walls of our classrooms and supports our Early Childhood curriculum across all areas of child development.
At The Orchard School, we believe that a progressive education engages the natural curiosity of students in child-centered and experiential learning environments.  The promise of “Nature as Teacher” at Orchard extends the walls of our classrooms and supports our Early Childhood curriculum across all areas of child development.
Our Early Childhood program offers regular opportunities for children to connect with nature and their local environments.  Combining a child-centered curriculum with a focus on the natural world results in hands-on opportunities that help build stronger, smarter, and happier children. By supporting a love and understanding of nature, we believe that as children learn to care for themselves and others, they also learn to care for the world around them. Connecting children with nature at an early age includes physical, academic, and social and emotional benefits.
 
Playing in nature
Increases confidence
Improves problem-solving
Promotes social inclusion
Increases creativity
Provides positive social interactions
 
Increases activity levels
Improves agility, coordination, and balance
Develops risk assessment abilities
Lowers illness rates
Reduces childhood obesity
Heightens overall use of senses
 
Reduces childhood anxiety, stress, and depression
Increases attention span
Improves self-regulation
Provides children the opportunity to develop independence
Back