Outdoor Nursery School

Outdoor Nursery School, also known as "In the Woods, " has been preserving childhood since 1933. Our mission is to prepare children to become independent, self-assured, and ready to meet the next challenge through play-based learning. We welcome children aged 2 to 4 1/2 years old and offer opportunities for them to experience the joy of life while they learn.

Located on 2 1/2 acres at our site in Chevy Chase, MD, we have four large, woodland play spaces, including The Jungle Yard. Our school is licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education and classified under the Internal Revenue Code as a 501(c)(3) public charity. We believe children are happier and healthier outside and that they can and need to learn through play.

History

Our school was founded in 1933 by Bertha Belt, a Bank Street College graduate, who recognized the importance of early childhood education. The school started with ten children and two teachers in the basement and backyard of Mrs. Belt's home. In 1954, we moved to our current site, which features an Arts & Crafts-style 14-room house built in 1910, surrounded by 2 1/2 acres of gardens, woods, and yards. Today, we have five preschool classes with teachers certified by the Maryland State Department of Education.

Philosophy

Our philosophy is centered around providing an environment that helps children feel confident in new situations, encourages creative and constructive activities, motivates them to work out their own problems, and includes opportunities for open-ended learning. We believe that children learn as they play and that this learning is essential for their future development.