Our school · Our community

About Tender Leaves
Outdoor Preschool

A nature-filled childhood, with thoughtful teaching at its heart.

At Salsbury Point Park in Poulsbo, children ages 2.5–7 learn through movement, discovery, and purposeful play.

An adult kneeling beside a child as they look inside a small wooden chest outdoors.

Our mission
and vision.

Room to wonder.
Support to grow.

We blend child-led exploration with intentional early learning, nurturing curiosity, confidence, and connection.

Our whole-child approach supports physical, social-emotional, and academic growth—while respecting the joy and pace of childhood.

Meet our founder:
Calvin Frey

Person smiling, wearing glasses and a brown sweater, standing near a railing indoors.

Calvin brings a University of Washington Master’s in Teaching, Washington State teaching certification, and more than 12 years of teaching experience to Tender Leaves.

Outdoor learning,
with accountability.

Four children and one adult exploring rocks and shells on a pebble-covered shoreline next to the water.

    • Accountability: state oversight, including announced and unannounced inspections.

    • Prepared educators: background checks, qualifications, first aid/CPR, and training appropriate to staff roles.

    • Outdoor care: active supervision, site-specific benefit-risk assessments, and plans for weather, emergencies, and activities near water.

    • Everyday needs: standards for hygiene, drinking water, food, rest, and toileting outdoors.

    Licensing also lets outdoor programs participate in child care assistance such as WCCC. Family eligibility and program approval apply.

    • Responsive teacher-child interactions and learning environments.

    • Curriculum, children’s learning, and family partnerships.

    • Professional development and ongoing program improvement.

    Participation and a specific quality rating are separate statuses.

  • Our 1:4 staffing commitment: one teacher for every four children gives us time to know and support each child. This is Tender Leaves’ approach, separate from general state licensing ratios.

Start with a hello.

I’m Interested!