FACTS AND QUESTIONS
1.What does it mean to be licensed?
I meet, or exceed, the standards set forth by the Dept of Early Education and Care. This also includes attendance at orientation, training in First Aid and CPR , a physical exam, background check ( CORI), and taking additional education courses.
2. What kind of space do you have?
We have a log home with large, light filled rooms with many windows and doors that look out to nature. Our great room ( 25x31) and our kitchen (18x25) face south and west . They are both used for the children, allowing for a myriad of activities, both noisy and quiet, large and small, as well as alone time. This is a smoke free home and is clean, safe, healthy and hazard - free.
Our outside space consists of 12+ acres to explore,observe and discover. We have open space, woodlands, wetlands including a pond, a ridge and meadows. We have a teepee to play in , large rocks to climb, large and small adjustable basketball hoops, a long, winding, paved, driveway fit for ride-on toys, bikes, skates, wagons, sleds and chalk drawings,etc.
We do have a fenced in area that exceeds the minimum space requirements for licensing . It has a climbing structure/slide . We do not spend all our outside time in the fenced in area but we do have it available. We plan to expand our playground equipment.
3. Do you serve meals?
I serve two healthy snacks daily and the children bring their own lunches.
I am a member of the Nutrition Education and ChildCare Food program.
I serve natural and organic food as much as possible. The children take an active part in the preparation of food, and increase their awareness of the food pyramid and the nutritious foods needed to help growing bodies. I can accommodate vegetarian diets as well.
5. Why would I pull my child from a childcare at this age, one that he/she has been going to all along?
Perhaps you want something *more* for your child, a unique experience, to live and learn more with Animals, Nature and the Arts, or perhaps you want a smaller, relaxed atmosphere in which your child will receive more individual attention, or one in which your child is able to learn and grow at his/her own pace in which PLAY is of utmost importance.
6. What about safety?
Safety is paramount here at A Nest in Nature. We learn and practice what it is to be safe in ALL aspect of our daily lives. Safey with food, safety with animals, safety with the outside environment, safety with activities, and safety with each other and ourselves.
My house also had to pass strict standards to be healthy, child-proof and hazard free.
7. I am not an animal person, and am actually fearful of some animals, why would I choose A Nest in Nature for my child?
I feel it is important to expose children to ALL of the world, even areas we aren't all that thrilled with ourselves. They are their own persons and may have different interests and passions than we do, and who knows what childhood experiences can blossom into a joy-filled, productive adult life.
If you are not into animals, chances are your child won't have much exposure to them, and the more reason that A Nest in Nature can enrich your child's life.And if you are afraid of animals, your fears can transfer to your child even through your body language.
A Nest in Nature offers exposure to animals without having to be in direct contact. A child can learn so much from just observing others, and taking part when he/she feels ready.
8. I am a stay at home mom and don't need childcare.
Children can still come to our Nest even if their parents don't need childcare. They can come on a part-time basis to learn with animals and nature and play. I follow a gentle preschool guide and we experience the world hands-on and have fun!
