Nature Preschool
The Chicago Botanic Garden’s nature-based, developmentally appropriate preschool provides a unique learning experience for 3- to 5-year-olds. The emergent curriculum focuses on exploration and discovery in nature each day. The curriculum promotes learning and prepares children for kindergarten as they develop an appreciation for the natural world.
Registration information for Nature Preschool Open House is found here.
If class is sold out, please email Ann Halley at to be placed on the waitlist.
How is a nature-based preschool different from a traditional preschool?
- The natural world is the catalyst for the curriculum.
- Daily time spent outdoors in all weather (approximately half of the class time) allows for discovery in an ever-changing environment.
- Discovery-based learning includes a hands-on approach to education.
- Time is built in for children to observe, explore, discover, and reflect in learning activities.
Please note: All children must be fully toilet trained before attending classes.
Any Questions?
Contact: Ann Halley, director of early childhood programs and preschool director
Email: Click here to show mail address
Phone: (847) 835-8238
Nature Preschool is a member of the Alliance for Early Childhood and a member of Natural Start Alliance.
Seeds Class
Age: 3 (by September 1, 2023)
Days: Tuesday and Thursday
Dates: September 5, 2023 – May 23, 2024
Class Time: 9 – 11:30 a.m.
Tuition: $3,444 or $2,755 with Household Plus membership; payment in full or in monthly installments.
Seedlings Class
Age: 4 (by September 1, 2023)
Days: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
Dates: September 6, 2023 – May 24, 2024
Class Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Tuition: $6,199 or $4,959 with Household Plus membership; payable in full or in monthly installments.
Stems Class
Age: mixed-age class, ages 3 – 5 (must be 3 by September 1, 2023)
Days: Tuesday and Thursday or Monday and Wednesday
Dates: September 5, 2023 – May 23, 2024 or September 6, 2023 – May 22, 2024
Class Time: 12:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Tuition: $4,133 or $3,306 with Household Plus membership; payable in full or in monthly installments.
Age: mixed-age class, ages 3 – 5 (note that children must be 3 by January 1, 2023, to attend this class)
Days: Monday through Thursday
Dates: September 5, 2023 – May 23, 2024
Class Time: 12:20 – 3:20 p.m.
Tuition: $8,265 or $6,612 with Household Plus membership; payable in full or in monthly installments.