Our schedule is a guide through which we maintain a safe and predictable routine, but at The Nook, the children’s needs ultimately guide our day. We are here to adapt and support each child’s well-being and growth.

Open Ended Play | Children engage with versatile materials such as blocks, magnatiles, fabrics, loose parts, shells - without a set outcome. Play is driven by the child’s ideas, fostering creativity, friendships, collaboration, and problem-solving.  These unstructured moments are protected, and where deep learning and curiosity unfold.  

Sensory Learning | Materials rich in texture are offered for exploration. From water, sand, and ice to bins filled with flour, pasta, or other textures. Children are invited to pour, scoop, squeeze, and experiment. Children develop fine motor skills and construct understanding through their senses. 

Process Art | Children are offered open ended creative materials without templates or expectations, giving them the chance to truly express their preferences.  They paint, sculpt, collage, mix colors, layer, press and splatter.  We focus on the journey, not the final product.

Outdoor Learning | We go outside everyday, rain or shine, traveling together through our neighborhood to the playground,  park or local community garden. We observe and enjoy the world around us. Children run, climb and dig.  Time outdoors is treasured, the neighborhood becomes an extension of our classroom, and we feel rooted in the place where we live and learn.

Meeting Time | Our gatherings are fluid, flexible, and respectful of children’s attention spans. Children and teachers come together to reflect, share, dance and move, sing songs, play games and read story books.  

Rest and Nap Time | Rest is a cherished time, and a vital reset and recharge for the remainder of the day.  Children have individual cots with cotton sheets, and are invited to bring in a blanket or comfort item that will help them feel safe and relaxed.  The lights are dimmed, the blinds are closed, and soothing white noise envelops the classroom for a calm atmosphere.