Natureplay Preschools

Our Natureplay Preschools feature discovery-based learning with nature at the foundation of the curriculum. Our goal is to help young children develop a strong connection with the natural world at an early age.

The nearby streamways, parks and our outdoor classrooms will provide the children with extended periods of outdoor exploration. While indoors, child-initiated learning will increase awareness and appreciation of the natural world.

Unique Nature-based Program

These nature immersion preschools are unique to the greater Kansas City area and we are eager to advance early childhood environmental literacy through the introduction of these program. Natureplay is open year-round and licensed for 24 children ages 3 to 5 years. We are a Nature Explore Certified Classroom through Nature Explore! This certification requires programs to have well-designed outdoor spaces as well as a commitment to staff development and family involvement.

Fully Licensed

Fully licensed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment our programs maintain a 1 to 12 staff to child ratio. Our site program directors possess bachelors degrees from accredited colleges and universities. Staff training and education allows for a wide variety of interesting, hands-on, age appropriate activities that integrate science, math, literacy, and the arts through nature exploration while encouraging cooperative learning and social competence.

To schedule a tour and inquire about availability, contact the Program Director.

2023-24 Natureplay Weekly Fees

PROGRAM OPTIONS	WEEKLY FEE RATES
Enrollment Fee	$75.00 seasonally
Full Time Mornings (M-F)	$101.00/week
Part Time Mornings (M-W-F) Part Time Afternoons (T-W-TH)	$80.00/week
Part Time Mornings & Afternoons (T/TH)	$60.00/week

Weekly fee rates are 10% higher for non-residents.

EXTRA FEES	AMOUNT
Declined Payment Fee	$30.00
Program Options Change Fee	$15.00
Late Pick-Up Fee	$1.00/minute

*Fees will be paid weekly by recurring payment and are fully inclusive of all program activities.

*Fees are subject to change if programming is presented with extenuating circumstances that

increase the cost of programming.

*Natureplay at MCAC follows the De Soto School District's inclement weather closures and the Meadowbrook Park Natureplay follows the Shawnee Mission School District's inclement weather closures.

Parent Testimonials

---Hannah and I have had the good fortune to have both our daughters participate in Natureplay preschool. The Natureplay staff are some of the most kind, intelligent, and supportive caregivers I could imagine. They have helped our daughters learn more about the world around them. They nurtured our children and helped them to be inquisitive, confident, and brave- and have fun playing in the mud! Thank you for everything you do!

---You have instilled a love for school in her that you (and everyone else) get to witness when she doesn't want to leave at the end of the day. Transitions don't always come easy and there are lots of big feelings, but I want you to know the patience you've had with her through it all doesn't go unnoticed. Each of you has been named at different times as her favorite teacher and anytime we drive past the classroom she waves and says "Hi, school!" We love the photos and videos you post from your outings so we can follow along on your adventures.

---Today my daughter experienced her last day of camp at MBP Preschool Camp. She attended two weeks this summer and had an absolutely wonderful experience. This was her first time to be away from parents for more than one day/week. The teachers did an incredible job of welcoming her, helping her feel safe, and encouraging her to have fun! I couldn’t be more impressed or pleased! I’ve been an educator for many years and I’m happy to be able to recommend this trusted program to others. My son enjoyed it in 2019 and will plan to send our younger children as well. I especially appreciate the way that the teachers took time to speak with each parent at drop off and pick up. They were very personable, kind, and attentive to details and the needs of each child. I thought you should know what an incredible job they’re doing. Thank you for all the efforts you’ve put forth to organize a wonderful program.

---The teachers were kind, patient, and passionate, and the outcomes of their work is this realistic understanding of nature and how to interact with a would bigger than yourself and adjust with what that day/moment brings. Nature give the children a broader scope. They are aware there are other people using a sidewalk, there are plants we eat and plants we can't even touch, and that they can be comfortable in all types of weather as long as they are prepared. To see my child around a bee feels like a good metaphor of how they have learned to apply knowledge and awareness to handle a situation. They freeze, understanding that it's just looking for a flower, compared to the common reaction of freaking out and afraid to be stung. They also got to work on their physicality in a unique way, being flexible on what a day looks like, and being brave. I could go on and on, we love Natureplay!