Our outdoor program is the only program in Kitsap County to operate longer than 4-hours a day. This flexibility allows us to pack more into a day as well as accommodate families that need longer days for their child.

We intentionally build our classes to be the smallest in outdoor schools in Kitsap (just 12 students with 2 teachers) to ensure each child receives individualized attention. With our 1:6 teacher-to-child ratio, every child is truly known and supported. This intimate setting allows teachers to bond with each student and tailor learning to their needs, while also closely guiding social interactions so kids develop great social skills in a safe setting.

Our teachers are experienced early childhood educators with specialized training in outdoor education as well as a WA State teaching certificate. All staff are CPR/First Aid certified and background-checked. More importantly, we are deeply committed to nurturing confident, curious learners. From circle time to forest hikes, our teachers bring patience, creativity, and warmth to every moment. (And yes – we love what we do!)

Our program is committed to not only participating in the Early Achievers program but achieving a level 5; something only 1.6% of licensed programs in all of WA achieved.

We believe in purposeful play. That means we follow the children’s interests and weave in gentle structure to achieve key learning goals. Our curriculum is designed to build early skills in literacy, math, science, and the arts through hands-on activities. Whether it’s counting pinecones, learning letters in the sand, or experimenting with water flow, our teachers guide play toward rich learning. By the time our kids head to kindergarten, they’re ready to shine – all gained through joyful, play-based exploration.

Why stay indoors when the best classroom is outside? Our “campus” is the great outdoors – including forest trails, beach tide pools, grassy fields, and covered picnic shelters. We chose our site at Salsbury Point Park for its natural beauty, safety, and endless learning potential. Children might observe sea creatures on the shore in the morning, then climb mossy logs in the afternoon. Rain or shine, our environment engages the senses and encourages adventure. (And don’t worry – we have sheltered areas for wet weather and always put safety first.)

We support every part of your child’s development – physical, emotional, social, and cognitive. Our program includes active movement (like yoga stretches, balance games, and cooperative play) to develop gross motor skills and coordination. We also nurture social-emotional growth through teamwork, stories, and routines that build empathy and self-regulation. By integrating movement, play, and nature-based learning, we make sure your child’s body and mind are growing strong.

When you join Tender Leaves, you join a family. We foster a warm, inclusive community where parents are partners and children build lifelong friendships. We love bringing families together through park playdates, seasonal celebrations, and parent involvement opportunities. As a local Kitsap County preschool, we pride ourselves on creating a supportive village for your child. You’ll get to know the other parents and feel connected as we all watch our “tender leaves” grow.

Climbing trees, balancing on logs, exploring nature – it all comes with manageable risks that help children learn and gain confidence. We take safety seriously by conducting detailed risk assessments and maintaining active supervision at all times. Our approach is “risk-aware” rather than risk-averse: we allow children to test their limits in a thoughtful way. Kids learn how to navigate challenges and solve problems, but we’re always right there ensuring everyone stays safe. Your child will build resilience and independence, and you can feel secure knowing we’ve got a careful eye on them.