Nature-based Preschool
Ketcha offers unique outdoor programming in our nature-based preschool for kids 3-5. Our “outdoor classrooms” include 107 acres of forest, fields, a farm, streams, and a pond. Ketcha is tucked between the seashore and the salt marshes of Scarborough, Maine.
We practice place-based teaching, rooted in the Reggio Emilia approach, throughout our 107 acres of forest, fields, farm, and waterways. Our students are active in the outdoors year-round and in all types of weather. We know that learning happens best through play, so we schedule many opportunities for both structured and unstructured play throughout the day, allowing our students to immerse themselves in the diverse natural settings on our property.
We provide the freedom and support needed for child-led exploration, discovery, imaginative and creative play, risk-taking, problem-solving, socializing, and mindful moments. We believe that all children can learn and contribute to their community, so we cultivate an inclusive environment that honors the diversity of life in both our human cultures and the natural world. Our Program Overview focuses on our curriculum and day-to-day schedule. If you’d like a copy please contact kmills@ketchaoutdoors.org.
Curriculum
We focus on students’ interests and curiosities to pursue topics and develop activities following our Ecology ABCs throughout the year. We combine emergent topics with nature lessons to fulfill our mission for place-based environmental learning preparing them for a lifetime of stewardship and sustainability. To further support learning in the area of emergent literacy our circle times feature letter-of-the-week lessons on bugs and birds, farming, weather, seasons, plants and animals of Maine, connections and cycles of nature, geography, geology, and more.
Our teachers are trained to support students as they develop their social-emotional skills. Using our three rules at school of being kind, safe, and gentle we teach and guide kids through interactions with others and solve conflicts with kind and direct communication. As we move through our themes we teach correlating breathing exercises that can help them calm down when things are challenging. Supporting kids as they grow their relationships with teachers, peers, and all living things is an important piece of their social-emotional development.
Family Handbook
The Farm and Forest Preschool at Ketcha Outdoors emphasizes hands-on experiences, sensory exploration, and outdoor play in both farm and forest environments. Children engage in activities such as nature walks, gardening, animal care, storytelling, and creative arts and crafts using natural materials. The curriculum is designed to foster a deep connection with nature, promote environmental stewardship, and support children’s holistic development, including physical, cognitive, social, and emotional aspects. Each week we offer a deep-dive into behaviors, experiences and cognitive learning on our You Tube channel. Check out our Preschool Director, Kailina Mills’ Deep Dive Playlist.
Teachers
Our preschool and pre-k programs are taught by kind, qualified teachers who are passionate about the value of nature-based education for young children. They receive specific training in social/emotional learning, play based learning, and supporting children with problem solving. To learn more about our teachers, and the other wonderful staff at Ketcha, visit Meet Our Staff.
Schedule Options
Preschool runs Monday-Thursday mornings from 8:00-12:00 with the optional add-on of afternoons and/or a full day Friday session. The morning session runs from 8:00-12:00, and the afternoon session adds on 12:00-3:30. Full day Friday sessions run from 9:00-3:30.
Participation Requirements
Because we are based outdoors in unfenced woods it is a requirement of the program that children are able to stay with the group and not run away. Children are also required to be potty trained and independently using the toilet. We keep a 6:1 ratio of students per teacher.
We can accommodate children who require 1:1 support if their support professional is provided by the family or through another service. Please contact the preschool director Kailina Mills at kmills@ketchaoutdoors.org if your child requires additional support to discuss whether or not this program would be a good fit for your child.
Payment Policies
- Tuition payments are due on the first of each month starting August 1st and ending April 1st. A $25 fee will be charged for late payments.
- Monthly payments are equalized. The number of program days per month varies depending on holidays.
A visit is required before registration. You can schedule a visit with Kailina, our Preschool Director, by emailing her at kmills@ketchaoutdoors.org. When registering only check off September. This will hold your spot for the whole school year through May. Our system is set up as monthly sessions for payment processing. You need only pay $70 to hold your spot. Of that, $20 is a once yearly registration fee and the other $50 will be credited to your first month’s tuition. Enrollment is open throughout the year based on availability.