Business Details
11 Years
experience
Nature-Based Preschool Programs in Hastings-on-Hudson
Little Leaf is New York State's first licensed Nature Preschool, offering immersive early childhood education for children aged 2-5. Our three locations in Hastings-on-Hudson, Yonkers, and Ossining provide unique environments where play, social-emotional learning, and nature form the foundation of our Reggio Emilia and Waldorf-inspired curriculum. Certified educators guide experiential learning through forest exploration, garden play, and intergenerational programs.Accredited by NY State Office of Children and Family Services, we're members of national early childhood associations and maintain partnerships with local nature preserves. With over a decade of combined teaching experience among our leadership team, we prioritize child-led discovery while maintaining rigorous safety standards and transparent communication with families.
Services
Nature Preschool
Summer Camp Programs
Intergenerational Learning
Forest School Curriculum
Garden Education
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- We offer NY State-licensed nature preschool programs with certified early childhood educators
- Our curriculum combines Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, and Coyote Mentoring methodologies
- Three unique locations with access to 40+ acres of natural exploration spaces
- We maintain 10:1 child-to-teacher ratios for personalized attention
- Our staff includes Master's degree holders with 10+ years average teaching experience
Associations and certifications
- NY State Office of Children and Family Services
What people say
Magical garden
Qualified educators
Nature exploration
Unique curriculum
Seasonal activities
Services
Nature Preschool
Our nature preschool immerses children in outdoor learning environments. Using Reggio Emilia and Waldorf-inspired methods, we foster child-led exploration through forest walks, garden play, and seasonal activities. Certified educators guide social-emotional development while maintaining state licensing standards. Programs operate year-round with appropriate outdoor gear.
Summer Camp Programs
Week-long summer camps combine nature exploration with creative play. Activities include forest classroom time, water fun, gardening, and artistic projects. Sessions run 8:30-14:15 daily with flexible week options. All staff hold early childhood education certifications and outdoor safety training.
Intergenerational Program
Our unique intergenerational curriculum connects preschoolers with senior community members. Located at Andrus-on-Hudson, children participate in shared music classes, storytelling, and nature walks. This program develops empathy while creating meaningful cross-generational relationships through structured outdoor activities.
Garden Education
Garden-based learning includes mud kitchen play, insect studies, and vegetable gardening. Children engage in sensory activities using natural materials. The program develops fine motor skills through outdoor easel painting, landscape art, and seasonal harvesting experiences.
Forest School Curriculum
Forest school methodology emphasizes unstructured nature play. Children explore woodland trails, build natural shelters, and identify local flora/fauna. The curriculum supports physical development through hiking, climbing, and seasonal outdoor challenges in maintained natural environments.
People
Theresa McCaffrey
Founder and Director
Masters-educated educator with 10+ years in inclusive classrooms. Founded Little Leaf in 2015 after teaching at NYC River School and KIPP Charter. Trained in Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, and Coyote Mentoring methods. Holds M.F.A. from Harvard and M.Ed from Pace University.
Allison Griffin
Head Teacher
Early childhood specialist with 20+ years experience. Certified yoga instructor and martial artist. Focuses on emotional understanding and nature connection. Developed parenting support programs and professional development workshops for preschool teachers.
Shaiza Zahid
Site Director
Former chemical engineer turned conservationist. Tinkergarten leader with three years experience. Combines STEM education with nature play. Holds chemical engineering degree and nature-based educator certification.
Monica Daly
Head Teacher
Master's degree holder from Teachers College, Columbia University. Former graphic designer turned outdoor educator since 2017. Specializes in child-led play and social-emotional skill development in 2-5 year olds.
Melissa Lohman-Wild
Head Teacher
Artist and educator with MA in Media Studies. Trained in nature-connected art discovery. Teaches creative communication through outdoor exploration. Holds BA from Hampshire College and early childhood education certification.
Questions
What are your teacher qualifications?
All lead teachers hold Master's degrees in education or related fields with 10+ years average experience. Staff maintain current early childhood certifications and outdoor safety training.
Do you celebrate traditional holidays?
We observe nature-centered holidays like Winter Solstice, Earth Day, and seasonal changes. Families participate in lantern walks, potlucks, and classroom celebrations throughout the year.
How does kindergarten preparation work?
Our graduates transition successfully to academic settings. The play-based approach cultivates curiosity and social skills that create excitement for formal learning environments.
Are indoor classrooms available?
Yes, all locations have indoor spaces with Reggio-inspired materials. Classrooms feature open-ended toys, loose parts, and natural elements that support child-led exploration.
What locations do you offer?
We operate at Andrus-on-Hudson in Hastings, Lenoir Nature Preserve in Yonkers, and Bethany Arts Community in Ossining with distinct environmental features at each site.
Are scholarships available?
Need-based financial assistance is available. Contact admissions for confidential application process and eligibility requirements.
