our philosophy
Learning
Connecting
Learning
We see education as a lifelong process that begins in early childhood. We hold a deep respect for the child's autonomy, dignity, and innate potential. We value the child's voice, interests, and ideas, promoting a sense of agency and empowering them to actively participate in their own learning. We emphasize the importance of a supportive
We see education as a lifelong process that begins in early childhood. We hold a deep respect for the child's autonomy, dignity, and innate potential. We value the child's voice, interests, and ideas, promoting a sense of agency and empowering them to actively participate in their own learning. We emphasize the importance of a supportive and nurturing environment, where teachers act as guides and facilitators, promoting the natural development of each child's individual interests and abilities.
Engaging
Connecting
Learning
We believe that children learn best through active engagement with their environment. We emphasize the importance of play and hands-on experiences, considering them essential for a child's physical, intellectual, and emotional development.
We value the role of play in fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, social interactions, and i
We believe that children learn best through active engagement with their environment. We emphasize the importance of play and hands-on experiences, considering them essential for a child's physical, intellectual, and emotional development.
We value the role of play in fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, social interactions, and imagination. Play is considered a natural and meaningful way for children to explore and make sense of the world.
Connecting
Connecting
Connecting
We view the world as a unified whole, where everything is interconnected. We believe that children should develop an understanding of the interconnectedness of nature, people, and ideas, promoting a holistic approach to education. We are home in nature, encompassing both living and non-living components, including plants, animals, and th
We view the world as a unified whole, where everything is interconnected. We believe that children should develop an understanding of the interconnectedness of nature, people, and ideas, promoting a holistic approach to education. We are home in nature, encompassing both living and non-living components, including plants, animals, and the environment as a whole. We belong here. We use our environment to foster exploration, independence, and self-discovery.
Meet the teachers
Jenny Walker
I am delightfully at home in the presence of children, valuing the unique perspectives and innate wonder that they possess. I have a deep appreciation for the natural world and feel a sense of serenity and connection when immersed in the magic of the outdoors. I love to share my thirst for adventure, whether it be hiking through forests, camping under the stars, or relaxing by the fire in my backyard. To be able to spend my days with these wonder-filled learners is truly a privilege in my life.
Outdoor Educator
Master Naturalist
Wilderness First Aid Certified
Leave No Trace Trainer
Lissa Egan
Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, I enjoyed a childhood filled with playing on the beach, building forts and spending countless hours wandering and exploring the woods. Those years helped to foster my love of the environment and my desire to share the awe and wonder I find in nature with children. I love being a part of Catkins Nature School and look forward to the different seasons of learning and growing together. It’s magical.
