Nature-Based Programs

Our Programs

In our nature-immersive program, children learn through hands-on experiences that address their developmental needs and nurture their innate curiosity about the world around them. Children are invited to explore, wonder, create, and develop their physical capabilities in Wheeler’s diverse outdoor environments. Our play-based approach encourages children, in partnership with teachers, to make independent discoveries about themselves and the natural world. What children discover outdoors will inspire circle time discussions along with math, language and literacy, science, and social studies lessons in our traditional preschool classroom.

ages 2.9 - 4

Nursery Program

In our Nursery program, we provide a language-rich, culturally responsive, anti-bias environment that instills a love of learning and stewardship of the Earth.

ages 4 - 5

Pre-Kindergarten Program

In our Pre-Kindergarten program, children will experience a more traditional classroom experience in a natural setting while building skills through play and teacher-directed experiences.

Indoor/Outdoor Curriculum

Each day, supported by our child-centered curriculum, students will be exposed to all aspects of development.

Spend time learning foundational social and emotional skills through play, collaborative projects, and teacher guidance.
Make new friends and explore what it means to be part of an inclusive and diverse community.
Develop an understanding of mathematical concepts as they collect natural materials, sort, compare, categorize, and count.
Be immersed in language and literacy through read-alouds, rhyming, word games, class discussions, and conversations with teachers and peers.
Gain knowledge of print and its uses, learn to recognize letters of the alphabet, write their name, and use writing tools to express their thinking.
Observe and interact with nature, giving them opportunities to develop science skills including an understanding of seasonal changes, cause, and effect, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.

Art Program

The Art Program at the Nest offers a dynamic curriculum where young students thrive. Lessons are designed to spark the imaginations of young students and help them connect with the natural world around them. Each project builds manual dexterity skills as well as engages students to experience a variety of materials. Songs, stories and chants come into play, as scissors talk, printing tools hop, and brushes mix colors and make marks. In this lively and nurturing environment students learn to give visual expression to their ideas, build on skills in fun ways, and maintain a connection to their creative spirit.

Spanish Program

Spanish at the Nest is all about learning a language in a fun and engaging way with a multisensory approach to classroom instruction. Students enjoy kinesthetic learning, exploring storybooks, music videos, rhymes and songs, and play traditional hand games. Child-centered lessons and activities highlight Hispanic culture, traditions, and special holidays.

Flexibility

At Wheeler we strive to offer quality educational experience to children of all ages. The Nest program was designed to develop the minds of tomorrow.

Flexible Enrollment Options
- Five Half Days: 7:30am-12:30pm
- Five Full Days: 7:30am-3:00pm
- Late Day Care (Add On): 3:00pm-5:30pm
After School Enrichment Programs
- After School Enrichment classes are available to students at the Nest who are enrolled in the full day program for an additional fee.
- Children will have the opportunity to join organized, curriculum-based elective classes that will dive deep into a variety of age-appropriate subject matters, interests, skills, and passions taught by members of the Wheeler community and outside partners and vendors.
Year-Round Care
- In conjunction with Wheeler Summer Camp, the Nest offers 12 months of care. Wheeler Summer offers 4 two-week sessions and 1 one-week session.
Flexible Afternoon Care
- Our After Care team on our Seekonk campus offers a fantastic variety of programs for students in nursery to pre-k. Families can register for daily after school care through our Nest CampBrain registration portal.
- Nest After Care Options:
  - 3-4:30pm Care: $30 per day
  - 3–5:30pm Care: $40 per day
  All after care registrations include a daily snack, along with age-appropriate activities, time outdoors, and creative play with friends.
  In addition to daily care, we are excited to offer a variety of enrichment programs throughout the year. Students will have the chance to explore new interests through offerings such as dance, martial arts, arts and crafts more!
  Families can use the same CampBrain portal to register for daily after school care and enrichment classes. More information about our enrichment offerings, including schedules and registration details, will be shared soon.
  If you have any questions regarding Nest after care, please contact Corinne O’Rourke at corinneorourke@wheelergmail.org.