Frequently Asked Questions
What does the day look like? Do children just run around outside all day?
At FNNS, our days are intentionally designed to balance structured learning experiences with free play and child-led exploration. Mornings typically begin with community circle time, songs, and a story that introduces the day’s theme or inquiry. Children then engage in outdoor exploration and engage in building, creating, problem-solving, and observing nature guided by teachers who model curiosity and scaffold learning through conversation and open-ended questions.
Throughout the day, children also participate in small-group activities such as nature-based art, sensory play, gardening, storytelling, or early literacy invitations. We view play as a child’s work; what may look like free play is in fact rich learning in collaboration, communication, and creativity.
When is it too cold or too hot to be outside?
We believe that with the right gear and preparation, most weather is learning weather! Our outdoor time continues year-round, with modifications based on safety and comfort.
- Cold weather: We typically stay outdoors during the colder months. During that time, teachers consistently monitor the temperature and wind chill or "feels like" factor in real time. Teachers also refer to the American Academy of Pediatrics Weather Watch Chart for reference and regularly check children for signs of discomfort.
- Hot weather: During summer or high-heat days, we play in shaded areas, incorporate water play, rest indoors during peak heat hours, and monitor for hydration and sun exposure. If conditions are unsafe (lightning, high winds, extreme temperatures, poor air quality), we move indoors for nature-inspired play, stories, and creative projects.
How do you handle separation?
We approach separation with empathy, patience, and trust. It’s natural for young children to need time to feel secure in a new environment. Our teachers work closely with each family to create a gradual transition plan that honors the child’s pace. We stay in communication during those early days, offering reassurance and consistency. We believe that strong relationships are the foundation of learning, so helping your child feel safe and connected is always our first priority.
Do you use time-out as a behavior management tool?
No, we do not use “time-out” as punishment. Instead, we use positive guidance and restorative practices. Teachers help children identify feelings, understand boundaries, and find solutions together. If a child needs space to calm their body, we support that through a “cozy corner” or nature break - a place to breathe, reset, and rejoin the group when ready. Our goal is to teach emotional regulation, empathy, and problem-solving.
Does my child need to be toilet trained to attend FNNS?
Yes. All children must be fully toilet trained before beginning at Friends Neighborhood Nature School. This means children should be able to use the toilet independently and should not be wearing diapers or pull-ups during the school day. We encourage families to communicate openly with teachers before the school year begins to ensure readiness and to support a positive transition for the child. Our teachers partner with families to ensure consistency between home and school routines.
What do you do to prepare children for Kindergarten?
Everything we do prepares children for Kindergarten. Our focus is on developing the whole child: curiosity, confidence, emotional intelligence, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. Through daily experiences in nature, children practice the very skills that lay the foundation for academic readiness.
- Early literacy through storytelling, songs, and environmental print
- Math and science through counting, measuring, comparing, and observing
- Executive function through open-ended play, turn-taking, and following routines
- Social-emotional growth through cooperation, communication, and empathy
By the time they move on, FNNS children are not only “ready for Kindergarten” - they are ready for learning, relationships, and life.