Nature-based early learning in Rhinebeck, NY. Small classes, big wonder.
Every program is capped at 12 children with two dedicated teachers. Because learning happens best when every child is truly known.
We believe the best classroom has mud, sunlight, and room to wonder. Our Reggio Emilia-inspired approach treats every child as a capable, curious, and creative human being from day one. Teachers here are listeners and documenters as much as instructors.
Children choose the direction. Teachers follow their curiosity and deepen the learning.
Two hours outside every day. Rain or shine. Garden, forest trail, and mud kitchen included.
Families are partners, not spectators. Monthly gatherings, weekly updates, open door policy.
No two days look exactly the same - that is the point. But every day includes time in nature, time for making, time for stories, and time to simply be a child.
Every teacher at Magnolia Grove holds a degree in early childhood education and chooses to be here. The turnover rate? Near zero.
Former Waldorf educator with 16 years in early childhood. Clara started Magnolia Grove in her backyard in 2012 with four children and a love of mud.
Former forest school educator from Vermont. James leads the garden program, teaches woodworking, and has the best caterpillar identification skills in the Hudson Valley.
Specializes in toddler transitions and attachment-based learning. Petra is the reason our youngest children arrive running through the door within a week.
Come walk the grounds, meet the teachers, and see the children at work. Tours run Tuesday and Thursday mornings by appointment. Bring your little one - they usually do not want to leave.
No spam. Just a warm reply from Clara or Petra.