Business Details
Nature-Based Preschool in Atlanta
The Children's Garden Preschool is a heart-centered, nature-based early childhood education program dedicated to nurturing young minds through immersive outdoor learning and Waldorf-inspired practices. Founded on principles of sensory-rich exploration and rhythmic daily routines, our curriculum fosters holistic development by integrating creative play, natural materials, and seasonal activities. Our team of experienced educators prioritizes individualized care, guiding children aged 2-5 in cultivating curiosity, social skills, and environmental stewardship.With a low child-to-teacher ratio and a commitment to sustainable practices, we create a warm, home-like environment where children thrive emotionally, cognitively, and physically. Our program emphasizes relationship-based learning, intentional modeling of kindness, and partnerships with families to support each child's unique growth journey.
Services
Nature-Based Preschool
Outdoor Learning
Waldorf Curriculum
Mixed-Age Classes
Extended Care
Highlights and features
- We offer Waldorf-inspired outdoor education with 30+ years of combined teaching experience
- Our low 10:2 child-to-teacher ratio ensures personalized attention
- Daily nature immersion fosters environmental stewardship and sensory development
- We practice relationship-based care that complements family values
- Seasonal organic meals and natural materials prioritize child health and sustainability
Services
Nature-Based Preschool
Our nature-based preschool program immerses children in daily outdoor experiences that cultivate environmental awareness and physical development. Through structured nature walks, seasonal exploration, and outdoor classroom activities, children build resilience and ecological literacy. The curriculum integrates natural materials and weather-appropriate learning to create meaningful connections with the environment.
Waldorf Curriculum
Our Waldorf-inspired approach emphasizes imaginative play, artistic expression, and rhythmic routines that support holistic child development. Through storytelling, handwork, and sensory-rich activities, children develop fine motor skills and creative thinking in a nurturing environment that honors childhood's natural rhythms.
Mixed-Age Classes
Mixed-age classrooms foster social-emotional growth through peer mentoring and collaborative play. Older children develop leadership skills while younger ones benefit from observational learning in a family-like setting that mirrors real-world social dynamics and promotes emotional intelligence.
Extended Care
Our extended day program offers structured afternoon care from 1-4pm with lunch preparation, quiet time, and creative play. Available as reserved or drop-in options, this service provides continuity for working families while maintaining our educational philosophy through afternoon rhythms.
Parent Engagement
We require family participation through volunteer opportunities at school events and seasonal activities. This collaborative approach strengthens community bonds and allows parents to directly contribute to their child's educational environment while building school-wide partnerships.
People
Sally Hansen
Owls and Robins Teacher, Preschool Director & Founder
An Early Childhood educator since 1994, Sally brings extensive experience and warmth to classroom instruction and school leadership. She developed our Waldorf-inspired curriculum and oversees program implementation.
Jessica Conroy
Starlings and Young Robins Teacher
Jessica specializes in early childhood development with a focus on nature-based learning. She creates engaging sensory experiences that align with our outdoor educational philosophy and developmental goals.
Lori van Rossem
Assistant Director & Chief Finance Officer
Lori manages administrative operations and financial planning. With experience as both a parent and staff member since the school's founding, she ensures organizational stability and policy implementation.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve children aged 2-5 years in mixed-age classrooms, with specific programs for 2-year-olds and 3-5-year-olds.
What is your educational philosophy?
Our Waldorf-inspired approach emphasizes nature immersion, sensory development, and rhythmic routines that nurture holistic growth through creative play and intentional modeling.
Are meals provided?
Children participate in preparing daily organic snacks using seasonal ingredients. Families provide lunch for extended care participants.
What outdoor activities do you offer?
Daily nature exploration includes hiking in Grant Park, outdoor classroom activities, seasonal crafts, and structured play with natural materials.
Do you offer financial assistance?
Yes, our Garden Grow Scholarship Fund provides needs-based financial aid and flexible payment options for qualifying families.
What are your class sizes?
Our 2-year-old classes maintain a 10:2 child-to-teacher ratio, while mixed-age classes have a 12:2 ratio with additional support on field days.
