Frequently Asked Questions

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We accept students as young as toddlers who are steadily walking, and our curriculum extends to elementary and above. We tailor learning experiences to each unique child and our experienced educators can meet each student exactly where they are as we begin our learning journey together.

Our programs take place at the Riparian Preserve in Gilbert and a private residence located at Guadalupe and Lindsey.

Our Summer Camp program takes place exclusively at our private location, which includes a over an acre of outdoor space and an indoor classroom and bathroom so that we have access to air conditioning, an essential in the Sonoran summer! 

During the school year we visit the Riparian Preserve on a weekly basis, weather permitting. The abundant wildlife and plethora of unique plants make this the perfect environment for our nature school experiences. Athe Preserve, we abide by the Rules for Public Use established by the Town of Gilbert. 

Developed by Dr. Maria Montessori over 100 years ago, Montessori education is an educational approach devoted to respecting and encouraging each child's Inner Teacher. Also known as Child Led Learning, Montessori education is based on trust, respect, and courtesy and encourages children to develop and deepen their own natural interests. Our motto is, "Help me do it by myself!"

Our skilled educators weave an abundance of academic skills into the child's own areas of interest. We encourage and model asking questions, seeking answers, and making connections. We believe that children's innate curiosity is their best guide and we "follow the child"  as they navigate the wonderful world of learning with enthusiasm and delight.

We specialize in bringing learning to life. Our Montessori curriculum includes reading, grammar, mathematics, the sciences, cultural studies, art, and music. Because of our amazing natural setting, the sciences are a key academic focus and wildlife identification and botany are high on our agenda each day. 

Our reading and mathematics programs are led by Montessori learning specialists and take place on a one-to-one and/or small-group basis. 

Music classes are Suzuki based and emphasize ear training, pitch matching, rhythm fluency, and vocal training while supporting the development of every child's inner musician in a fun and enriching class structure that boosts confidence and camaraderie. 

We send a detailed packing list to each registered student, and here's a general guide:

Water bottle, filled and labeled

Lunch, labeled

Sun hat

Sensible shoes

Clothing for the weather

Optional: Sunscreen already applied

Each student is given a Nature Journal which we work in each day and and journalling supplies are provided. We transport waters, lunches, and other items in our Adventure Wagon. Our staff are trained in First Aid and we carry an extensive First Aid Kit. 

If you arrive 5 to 15 minutes after the pick up window there is a $10 fee. After that we charge $5 per minute. If your schedule makes it difficult to arrive on time, please contact us to make special arrangements.

Yes. Occasionally we need to relocate, postpone, and cancel classes. Please check your phone for a brightwheel message when there are severe weather conditions.

We create an environment that supports respect for oneself, others, and nature. Most of our effort goes into preventative measures to make sure this environment is sustained and supported by all participants. If a child is repeatedly breaking rules, we will go over the ground rules on-one-one with them. We will keep parents informed of any ongoing issues so that we can work together to develop the best pathway forward. 

You can register your Interest Form here! Once received, we will reach out to discuss the program and answer any questions you may have before moving forward with the enrollment process. 

We offer open enrollment pending availability. Tuition for our regular program is charged monthly and we ask for 30 days notice if you choose to unenroll before the end of the school year. Tuition for our Camp programs is due upon enrollment. For School Holiday program dates and rates, click here. 

We use brightwheel for all of our organizational and administrative needs. Your application and forms are all based there. All billing goes through brighwheel with your payment information securely on file.  We also use brightwheel to send you photos and other updates about our time at Gilbert Nature School!

Yes! We are a registered vendor and are listed as Gilbert Nature School. Please let us know if you are applying ESA funds to your account as this can take several weeks to show up in our system. 

When our programs take place at the Riparian Preserve in Gilbert,  as their retention basins contain reclaimed water  we must stay out of the water. 

During our Summer Camp program we provide ample opportunities for water play!

Probably! Please dress in clothing that is soil-friendly and always keep us stocked with a complete change of clothes. 

We provide snacks in the morning and afternoon. The food we serve will always be organic and we will check ahead of time to note children’s food preferences and allergies.

With the exception of "cooking days," each participant needs to bring their own lunch.

We host occasional  "cooking days" and on these days you are free to send your child without a packed lunch. These days will be communicated in advance. 

We appreciate your generous offer! Please check in with us prior so that we can see if it will be appropriate for everyone's food allergies and preferences. We do ask that any food that is shared in our programs be organic.

We will always check for allergies when a child joins our program. It is each family's responsibility to ensure that our staff are aware of any allergies.