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Welcome to Dogwood Nature School

Midlothian's Premier Private Preschool for Children Ages 2-5

(Strictly a Preschool... NOT a Daycare)

Your child will make friends, have fun, and get ready for kinder!

At Dogwood Nature School...

You're Family!

If you want your child to make friends, be prepared for Kindergarten, and develop a love of learning that will last a lifetime... you’ve come to the right place!
Our warm, home-like environment sets the standard for how you’ll feel.

Our premier private preschool offers exceptional education to children ages 2-5. We feature small class sizes for maximum 1-on-1 learning, fun hands-on activities to make learning fun, and a “whole child” and nature-based curriculum that helps develop your child’s social, emotional, physical, language, and cognitive skills.

The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) creates the standards for high-quality preschool programs. We’re proud to say our preschool meets all of NAEYC’s 10 Standards for High-Quality Preschool Programs.
Your Child Will:
  • Have Fun and Stay Engaged while Learning!

  • Receive Individualized Curriculum to Be Prepared for Kindergarten!

  • Be Taught by an Experienced and Loving Teacher!

  • Develop a Love for Life-Long Learning and nature!

  • Make Close Friends!

  • Thrive on a Consistent Schedule!

  • Wake Up Wanting to Go to Preschool EVERY Day!

  • Gain Confidence in a Healthy & Safe Environment!

  • Be Part of a Small Class to Get Lots of 1-on-1 Attention!

  • Be Assessed 3x/Year with Progress Reports!

Meet Your Teacher:

Miss Ashlee!

Picture of teacher

Hi! I'm Miss Ashlee and for as long as I can remember, I've always wanted to work with children.

I’m a mom, former foster parent, have a Bachelor degree in psychology with master level classes in child development, and have taught online for five years! I envision our preschool as a nature-based haven with small, intimate class sizes where children can joyfully explore and learn. My goal is to create a warm, inviting space that thoroughly prepares your child for kindergarten through a fun and engaging nature-focused curriculum. Here, every child will thrive, sparking their curiosity and nurturing a lasting love of learning. We are committed to helping children develop a deep connection with the outdoors, encouraging them to spend more time in nature and less time on devices, all while finding excitement in every learning moment.

Now, I get to teach YOUR child! I can't wait!

Top 10 Reasons You'll Love Us

Check Out Our Premier Program!

#1: We’re a Family!

We want to get to know your family, so please invite your whole family to attend our free fun family events: Meet ‘n Greet, Fall Fest, Holiday Party, and Spring Clean Up. You are always welcome to volunteer in our classroom and/or at any of our events.

#2: We Care About You!

Our friendly manner of open communication helps you feel wanted, needed, and appreciated. Our warm, home-like atmosphere sets the standard for how you’ll feel treated as we quickly address your questions and concerns. We can't wait to get to know you better at our Meet 'n Greet before school starts!

#3: Your Child will Make Close Friends!

Our small preschool classes of just 4 children allows your child to be comfortable and grow valuable friendships with the other preschoolers and teacher. Because conflict-resolution skills are super vital to learn at this age, we help your child work through their problems with other children. Pretty soon they’re using the same strategies and words we’ve taught them, all by themselves!

#4: Your child will be more than ready for Kinder!

Your child will receive individualized instruction through our thorough assessments and curriculum. Our teachers will guide your child in the areas they need to improve, and challenge them when they’re ready for more. Our balance of teacher-directed and child-initiated hands-on activities follows the NAEYC guidelines to strengthen your whole child’s development: Social, Emotional, Cognitive, Language, and Physical.

#5: We keep your child healthy & safe!

Teaching children is a huge responsibility, and we take that responsibility seriously! Not only are we CPR/1st Aid Certified, but our distinct policies and procedures regarding health and safety help to keep your child in a safe, clean environment. We’re constantly cleaning, washing hands, and monitoring all activities to prevent any accidents.

#6: Your child will love our preschool!

I'll help your child come out of his/her shell, gain self confidence, and grow in all areas of development. I'm excited to help your child grow and learn!

#7: All of our events are free!

To extend our learning we go on several field trips each year, and you get to join your child on them. We’ve gone to places like: the Zoo, Cabela’s, Apple Orchard, Police Station, Fire Station, Popcorn Store, Grocery Store, Taekwondo, Domino’s Pizza, Pumpkin Patch, and more! We’ll also celebrate special occasions with parties for holidays and your child’s birthday!

#8: Your child gets a shirt and portfolio!

Each year, your child will receive a different t-shirt for that school year to wear on Spirit Days. Some of our families have been with us so long they are t-shirt collectors! We also save some of your child’s artwork for a special portfolio you get at graduation.

#8: We help you preserve memories!

We offer you the opportunity to enrich your preschool experience by enjoying school pictures, class pictures, graduation pictures, cap ‘n gown pictures.

#9: We celebrate with graduation!

Bring your entire family to our yearly graduation where we celebrate your child's accomplishments in a big way! It'll be a night to remember! Your child will graduate every year, so be sure to bring your entire family for a fun family experience for free!

Choose Your Preschool Class:

You can choose from a variety of our preschool classes to better accommodate your family’s schedule. Whether you want your child to attend 2, 3, or 5 days/week at preschool, (or even AM or PM) we have a class for you!

2 DAYS PER WEEK:
M-W

Nature School Only: $40/class (unaccompanied)

Nature School Only: $20/class (accompanied)

Choose Your Class:

  • M 10-2 p.m.

  • W 10-2 p.m.

2 DAYS PER WEEK:
T-TH

Tuition: $300/month

Reg. Fee: $100

Choose Your Class:

  • T-TH 9-11:30 a.m.

  • T-TH 12-2:30 p.m.

3 DAYS PER WEEK:
M-T-TH

Tuition: $380/month

Reg. Fee: $100

Choose Your Class:

  • T-TH 9-11:30 a.m.

  • T-TH 12-2:30 p.m.

  • M @ Nature School 10-2 p.m.

4DAYS PER WEEK:
M-T-W-TH

Tuition: $460/month

Reg. Fee: $100

Choose Your Class:

  • T-TH 9-11:30 a.m.

  • T-TH 12-2:30 p.m.

  • M-W @ Nature School 10-2 p.m.

When should I call to register my child?

It’s never too early to call, so call as soon as you even think about registering, because our classes fill up ridiculously fast!

What is nature school?

Nature schools, also known as nature-based, outdoor, or forest schools, are educational programs that integrate nature as the central theme, offering significant developmental and environmental benefits.

These programs promote child development and environmental literacy by spending a substantial portion of the day outdoors and adopting a child-led, play-based approach tailored to children's interests, abilities, and environments.

Key characteristics include fostering socio-emotional growth, encouraging healthy risk-taking, and improving cognitive, physical, and mental health outcomes.

Nature schools enhance brain development, academic performance, executive function, emotional resilience, and physical activity while providing therapeutic benefits for conditions like ADHD and autism.

Research confirms the effectiveness of nature-based education, showing it supports comprehensive development—including cognitive, social-emotional, physical, language, and environmental literacy.

Studies highlight that nature reduces stress, enhances attention, and provides a rich, engaging setting for learning, particularly benefiting students who struggle with traditional instruction methods.

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Why is it important for children to play outside regularly?

Ensuring children spend ample time playing outside is a simple yet powerful way to enhance their future health and success. Modern childhood increasingly takes place indoors, influenced by factors such as screen time, structured activities, safety concerns, and limited outdoor spaces.

However, outdoor play offers vital benefits:

Sunshine: Essential for vitamin D production, immune function, sleep regulation, and mood enhancement, moderate sun exposure supports overall health.

Exercise: Outdoor activities naturally encourage the physical activity children need daily for healthy development.

Executive Function: Unstructured outdoor play fosters planning, creativity, problem-solving, and independence, critical for life skills.

Risk-Taking: Allowing children to take manageable risks builds confidence, resilience, and the ability to handle challenges.

Socialization: Outdoor play promotes collaboration, sharing, and interpersonal skills in informal, less structured environments.

Nature Appreciation: Experiencing nature firsthand instills a deeper connection to the environment, fostering care and understanding essential for preserving the planet.

Encouraging outdoor play equips children with physical, social, and emotional tools for a healthier, more fulfilling life.

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When does preschool start? Can I enroll mid-year?

We have a 10-month school year (Aug.-May) and a 2-month summer camp (June-July). If we have spots available, you can enroll mid-year. Please call us to see if we have any spots available.

Nature School is year-round, rain or shine!

How old does my child need to be to attend?

Preschool classes are for children who are ages 2-5. Summer camp is for children who are ages 3-8.

Does my child have to be potty trained?

We prefer if your child is potty trained, but we are willing to work on potty skills at preschool.  If you have any questions about whether or not your child is ready, feel free to give us a call. 

All nature school students are required to be potty trained due to the added complexities of managing diapers in outdoor settings. Exceptions can be made if a parent or guardian accompanies the child to provide necessary support.

What is your teaching philosophy and approach?

At Dogwood Nature School, we provide a unique, child-led learning experience rooted in nature. With small group sizes, we foster a close-knit, supportive environment that encourages habits of observation, discovery, questioning, and problem-solving. Our emergent, play-based approach allows children to explore their surroundings, ignite their imaginations, and learn at their own pace. Through hands-on experiences in nature, we focus on building strong connections to the environment, while also emphasizing social-emotional learning, social-environmental justice, and healthy risk-taking. Here, children are free to be curious, creative, and confident as they grow into compassionate, thoughtful stewards of the world around them.

For preschool, we also incorporate Fundamentals Preschool Curriculum and Blossom and Root Curriculum. Your child will learn to socialize, make friends, develop social and emotional skills, and be more than ready for Kindergarten! 

Are there additional fees during the preschool year?

No.  Your registration fee covers all your child’s supplies and reserves a spot in our program.  Your child won’t pay anything to attend our field trips and activities.

What if my child has food restrictions?

No worries.  Several of our students have food intolerances or severe allergies.  We ask these families to bring in their own snacks, and we create nut-free classrooms any time a child’s allergy is severe enough to require an epi pen.

Is the registration fee refundable?

No.

How many students do you have per class?

We have the smallest class sizes in town so your child gets lots of 1-on-1 time. We only have 4 students per class!

Where does the nature school meet?

For 2025, we will meet at Rockwood Park, 3401 Courthouse Rd, Richmond, VA 23236

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What should my child wear when it's cold?

Three layers: 1-base layer 2- mid layer 3-outer layer

Layer one (base layer) is to regulate body temperature and wick moisture. Ideal clothing materials: wool, merino, polyester. Base layer shirt and pants; socks (not cotton).

Layer two (mid layer) is to trap heat, breathable. Ideal clothing materials: fleece, merino, polyester. Mid layer shirt and pants.

Layer three (outer layer) should be windproof and waterproof (not just water resistant). Insulated hooded jacket, waterproof rain pants and jacket.

Accessories to keep ears, fingers and toes warm. Warm hat or balaclava; waterproof mittens; classic boots 

EXAMPLES Base Layer Examples:

L. L. Bean Wicked Warm Underwear Set 

REI Co-op Merino Base Layer Patagonia Capilene

Non-Cotton Sock Examples: Smartwool Kid's Hiking Socks

Mid Layer Examples:

Tops: L.L. Bean Mountain Classic Fleece Patagonia Baby Micro D Snap T

Bottoms: REI Co-op Toasty Fleece Pants

L.L. Bean Mountain Fleece Pants Patagonia Micro D

Fleece Bottoms

Outer Layers: REI Co-op Down Jacket

Columbia Powder Lite Hooded Jacket

Columbia Humphrey Hills Jacket

Reima Waterproof Rain Jacket & Pants

Accessories: Polarn O. Pyret Insulated Mitten

L.L. Bean Cold Buster Mitten

Reima Insulated Mittens

Bogs Classic Boots

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How do students go to the bathroom at DNS while out in the woods?

Classes at Rockwood Park will utilize available restrooms or portable potties. Additionally, we will provide a travel potty and privacy tent for convenience. Biodegradable bags, toilet paper, flushable toddler wipes, and cedar chips for absorption will be used to maintain hygiene.We also have a portable hand washing station, equipped with soaps from Melaleuca that are free of parabens, formaldehyde, and phthalates, ensuring a safe and eco-friendly cleaning process.

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Can parents come to nature school classes, or is it a drop-off only program?

DNS offers two sign-up options:

Unaccompanied: $40 (for one child).

Accompanied: $20 (for one child with a parent or guardian) + $5 for each additional child (3 years and older).

Parents are warmly encouraged to participate in classes! We hope all attendees actively engage in the activities and set a positive example for others.

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Can I bring my younger kid to class?

Younger siblings (age 2 and under) are welcome to attend with parent supervision. However, if a younger child becomes distracting, you may be asked to step away temporarily to allow the group to focus on their activities.

Keep in mind that the class is designed for children aged 3-6, so some activities may not be suitable for very young children. Please introduce younger siblings to the instructors at the start of class and provide a signed Participation Waiver for them. Parents and grandparents are welcome to join classes, but all visitors must complete a Medical and Release form and actively participate in the day’s activities.

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What are your expectations of my child during class?

DNS Class Rules:

  1. Treat each other with respect and kindness.

  2. Show respect for the places and properties we visit.

  3. Treat animals, plants, and natural objects with care and respect.

  4. Stay with the group at all times under the supervision of DNS instructors.

  5. Disrespectful behavior, violence, and property destruction are strictly prohibited.

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What happens if my child breaks a rule?

Behavior Policy:

Instructors will address inappropriate behavior with the child in the moment and inform the parents after class, or during class if immediate action is required. A solution will be collaboratively developed between the child, parents, and instructor.

Second Incident: Parents and instructors will meet with the child to encourage behavior change and create an agreement for improvement.

Third Incident: If the behavior persists, DNS may limit the child’s involvement or remove them from the program.

DNS aims to allow children to resolve minor conflicts independently, fostering essential conflict-resolution skills. However, all participants must maintain respect and kindness toward others.

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What should I pack for my child to eat?

Nature School Lunch and Snack Guidelines:

Each child should bring their own lunch and snack to every class. While we respect individual nutritional needs and choices, we request that you pack healthy, nutritious food for your child. Please avoid sending candy or junk food.

Outdoor activities often make children extra hungry, so include a substantial meal, snacks, and plenty of water in a refillable container. To avoid allergy or dietary issues, food sharing is not permitted.

Preschool: NO LUNCH. Please just pack a snack and drink since class is only 2.5 hours.

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Reducing Waste Practices

Sustainable Lunch Packing:

To align with Earthroots teachings, we encourage packing lunches in reusable containers and water bottles that can be washed and reused throughout the year. Please aim to reduce or avoid single-use disposable plastic bags and bottles whenever possible, supporting sustainability and environmental stewardship.

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What does my child need to bring each day for nature school?

All children at DNS are required to bring a small, durable backpack each day that includes the following items, all labeled with your child’s name:

  1. Covered water bottle. Water bottle should be one that is easily transportable for your child and easy for them to operate and use on their own. Please ensure the bottle does not leak when inverted. 

  2. Lunchbox with lunch. Must be a sealed lunch container (Bento Box, Yummo Lunch Boxes, metal thermos) that is small enough to fit in your child’s backpack, or in a bag that can be hooked to the wagon. Sealed boxes prevent bugs and animals from taking an interest. We do not have refrigeration or re-heating capabilities at our school, so please be mindful of hot and cold weather when packing your child’s lunch. Insulated zipper bags are welcomed.

  3. Two seasonally appropriate extra changes of clothes. 

  4. Two pairs of socks.

  5. Two pairs of underwear.

  6. Sunscreen.

  7. A snug fitting hat, appropriate to the season.

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What if my child has allergies or a medical condition?

Families must notify DNS in writing about any food or environmental allergies their child has. For children with diagnosed allergies or asthma, parents/guardians must provide an individualized health care plan signed by the child’s physician. This plan should include symptoms, reactions, treatments, care instructions, and any required medications. While we strive to minimize risks, it is not possible to eliminate all allergens or prevent food sharing entirely. Families of children with severe allergies should carefully consider whether group care is appropriate, given these unavoidable risks.

Please note that DNS is not a nut-free school.Additionally, we ask parents/guardians to inform us of any medications or medical conditions their child may have so we can collaborate on a plan to meet their needs during class.

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How do I register my child?

Follow our simple 3-step process below to register your child into our preschool!

A Day in the Life at Our Preschool

Your child will develop ALL the skills needed for success and will be more than ready for kindergarten!

Check Out Everything We Do Each Preschool Class!

Circle Time

We practice our communication skills and make friends.

Child writes A in green sand

Snack Time

We practice our manners and social skills.

Child waves at laptop

Recess Time

We practice our gross motor skills indoors and outdoors.

Child with headset smiles as he engages with laptop

Story Time

We practice our literacy and rhyming skills.

Girl folds paper while watching teacher on laptop

And Each Day We Play In Our Learning Centers Too!

Writing Skills

We practice our letter and number writing skills.

Girl stretches to the side while watching teacher on large screen TV

Reading Center

We practice our pre-reading skills and read lots of stories.

Boy picks paper out of different colored liquids

Music Center

We practice our rhythm and repetition skills.

Girl follows directions during arts and crafts time.

Sensory Center

We practice our fine motor skills with our hands.

Girl watches a lesson about the alphabet on a laptop

Math Center

We practice our sorting, shapes, and colors.

Girl stretches to the side while watching teacher on large screen TV

Science Center

We practice our problem solving skills using science.

Boy picks paper out of different colored liquids

Art Center

We practice our creativity and fine motor skills.

Girl follows directions during arts and crafts time.

Building Center

We practice our construction and math skills.

Girl watches a lesson about the alphabet on a laptop

PLUS A SPECIAL BONUS JUST FOR YOU:

In addition to our amazing in-person preschool classes... During the school year, you'll also get access to Preschool Club for FREE! It's our safe, online library of 600+ engaging preschool classes with our certified, worldwide preschool teachers! Simply click play... and your child will have fun learning at home or on the go!

Click play below to learn about our Preschool Club!

Testimonials

The greatest compliment we can receive is your referral. Thank you!

We have 10+ 5-star reviews on Facebook and Google. Thank you for your support!
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Tamara R.

“Ms. Ashlee and Mr. DJ are an absolutely amazing team! My child absolutely adores them and talks about them constantly. They are both incredibly easygoing and patient, creating such a warm and welcoming environment. Their gentle approach makes the children feel seen, valued, and loved. I’ve noticed such excitement in my child every day, eager to go back and learn with them. It’s clear that they genuinely care about each child’s happiness and growth. I couldn’t ask for better educators for my little one!”

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Sarah D.

“I had the privilege and honor to have Ashlee care for my children for almost two years. She is gentle, compassionate, empathetic, and a fantastic listener. She’s taught my children lessons that they’ve consistently applied to their daily lives and memories that will last a lifetime.”

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Demetrius S.

"My daughter is a student here and I can honestly say from the very first day she has shown amazing development. This is the best school out there hands down!"

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Candice C.

"We love Dogwood Nature School! Ashlee and DJ offer a non- traditional learning space that promotes healthy and creative learning. They allow our daughter to explore and be inquisitive which we appreciate. We are beyond happy we have a home/nature based setting for our daughter outside of a daycare setting. We appreciate you both more than you know!"

HOW TO REGISTER IN OUR PRESCHOOL:

Due to high demand, our classes fill up ridiculously fast. Follow our simple 3-step process below to register your child into our preschool.

STEP 1:
Call to Reserve Your Spot and Take a Tour

Call us today at (412) 510-8129 to reserve your spot and take a tour. Let us know you saw our website promo to save 50% on your registration fee!

STEP 2:

Schedule Your Tour to Register Your Child

At the end of our call, we'll ask you to schedule a tour so we can tell you all about us and ensure we're a good fit.

STEP 3:

Register Your Child During Your Tour

At the end of our tour, we'll ask if you'd like your child to attend our preschool. If so, you'll fill out the registration form and pay the registration fee.

CONTACT US

Walnut Wood Ct, Virginia 23112, USA

We would love to answer all your questions and tell you more about us.

You may reach us by calling or texting:

412-510-8129

You can also email us at:
[email protected]

We are conveniently located at:

11725 Walnut Wood Ct

Midlothian, VA 23112