Nature Based Preschool educator
Alexandria
Nature Based Preschool educator
Full Time • Alexandria
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
🌿 Nature-Based Preschool Educator
Full-Time | Outdoor Early Childhood Program
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Nature-Based Preschool Teacher to lead a classroom rooted in outdoor learning, child-led exploration, and social-emotional development. This position requires daily outdoor instruction in all seasons and a strong commitment to play-based, relationship-centered education.
Responsibilities
- Implement a nature-based curriculum indoors and outdoors
- Facilitate literacy and early math through hands-on exploration
- Support social-emotional development through connection-based practices
- Create seasonal provocations using natural materials
- Document student growth through observation and portfolios
- Maintain classroom safety and licensing standards
- Communicate professionally with families and team members
Required Qualifications
-
Bachelor’s Degree in Nature-Based Education, Early Childhood Education, Environmental Education, Outdoor Education, or closely related field (Required)
- Experience in a nature-based, forest school, or play-based setting
- Strong knowledge of child development
- Comfortable working outdoors year-round
- Excellent communication and classroom management skills
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health & Dental Insurance
- Paid Time Off
- Professional Development
- Supportive Team Environment
Compensation: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour
About
Frog Pond is a one-of-a-kind nature program located on two acres in the middle of the urban enclave that is Alexandria, VA. It is an inclusive program that teaches and nurtures children, families, and the world, with a nature-based, science-rich curriculum.
Frog Pond offers a joyful and developmentally appropriate learning environment in an atmosphere of consistent, affectionate care. We focus on creating socially and emotionally intelligent learning environments, character development, outdoor play, and learning about nature in a holistic, nurturing, and stimulating environment. Our center promotes growth in all aspects of each young person’s development, and we welcome employees, children, and families of all races, religions, and creeds.
Frog Pond offers a joyful and developmentally appropriate learning environment in an atmosphere of consistent, affectionate care. We focus on creating socially and emotionally intelligent learning environments, character development, outdoor play, and learning about nature in a holistic, nurturing, and stimulating environment. Our center promotes growth in all aspects of each young person’s development, and we welcome employees, children, and families of all races, religions, and creeds.
Classes
We offer four different classes for children based on their age group. The Swimmers class is for children aged 18 months to 2 years, the Tadpole class is for children aged 2 to 3 years, the Frog class is for children aged 3 to 4 years, and the Dragonflies class is for children aged 4 to 5 1/2 years.
Low classroom ratio
Low classroom ratio
On a daily basis, we have a maximum of 64 children. Our adult-to-child ratio is than the licensing requirements. We also include children who have special needs and those who receive financial assistance. Our goal is to have a diverse population.
Our Roots
The non-profit corporation, Mother Nurture Company, under which Frog Pond operates, was founded in 1998 by Pam Tinker, a physical therapist and experienced health care manager. As part of her lifelong mission in the community to advocate for people who have disabilities, she founded this early learning center and designed it to be wheelchair and walker accessible.Â
Her deep commitment to respecting and caring for Mother Earth prompted the corporate name, “Mother Nurture.” The name has multiple layers of meaning since the school gives children and families the nurturing as would be typical of a loving parent. It sustains mothers and fathers by providing high-quality child care for an extended day that allows parents to work with the confidence that their children’s lives are being enriched and nurtured.
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