Question 1

Your site sounds smaller than other outdoor preschools we’ve visited. Is that a concern?

Accepted Answer

We hear this question, and we think it’s worth answering directly. Many outdoor preschool programs are hosted in large public parks, which offer a lot of variety. Our site is different: a fenced meadow at the edge of a forest, intentionally compact.

For 3–5 year olds, a smaller, consistent space is actually a developmental advantage. Young children don’t need acres — they need depth. A child can spend weeks discovering what lives under a single log. The familiarity of a known space builds confidence, encourages independent exploration, and lets children take real ownership of their environment. After a full year of watching children in our forest, we’ve seen this play out every day.

Question 2

My child has never been in an outdoor program. Will they be okay outside for a half day?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and they’ll probably surprise you. Children adapt to outdoor environments faster than most parents expect. Our teachers spend the first weeks helping each child learn to read their own body: recognizing when they’re cold, when they need to move, when they need a quieter moment. That kind of self-awareness is one of the program’s most lasting gifts.

We also send every family a detailed gear guide before the year begins. The right waterproof layers really do make the difference between a child who’s miserable and one who’s thriving in the rain.

Question 3

What gear does my child need?

Accepted Answer

We send a full gear guide to every enrolled family before the school year begins. The essentials are waterproof rain pants, a rain jacket, rubber boots, and warm base layers for colder months. We’ll share specific recommendations for each season. You don’t need to buy everything at once — we’ll let you know what’s most urgent before fall.

Question 4

What ages do you serve?

Accepted Answer

Children must be between 3 and 5 years old on their first day of attendance. They must also be potty trained and able to follow simple instructions.

Question 5

Does the Outdoor Preschool lead into The Island School’s K–5 program?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and that connection is one of the things we’re most proud of. Our preschoolers share a campus with K–5 students, which means they already know the school, the culture, and many of the faces by the time kindergarten arrives. Families who continue into K–5 consistently tell us the transition feels seamless. Admission to K–5 follows our standard admissions process, but preschool families are welcome to begin that conversation with us at any time.

Question 6

How do I apply?

Accepted Answer

The first step is submitting an interest form (linked below). Once we receive it, we’ll reach out to schedule a personal site tour. Tours are the best way to see the space and ask questions — we’d love to show you around.

Question 7

What happens if there’s an unexpected closure or delay?

Accepted Answer

We communicate any closures or delayed starts via Brightwheel and email. Please make sure your contact information is up to date once you’re enrolled.

PS-5TH GRADE

FAQs

FAQs About Our Preschool