Questions from families

A little clarity
before the adventure.

The everyday details help you picture your child here.

Explore common questions below, or reach out for a conversation about your family.

Children in yellow rain gear exploring the rocky shoreline.

Your questions,
answered.

Getting to know Tender Leaves.

  • Children learn through outdoor play, stories, science, movement, and close observation of the natural world.

  • Our school-year program serves ages 2.5–7. Children should be mostly potty-trained.

  • School-year hours are 9:00 am–3:15 pm, Monday–Friday. Choose two days (Tuesday & Thursday), three days (Monday, Wednesday & Friday), or five days (Monday–Friday).

  • Tender Leaves holds a Washington Outdoor Nature-Based (ONB) child care license. It brings state oversight and requirements for staff preparation, active supervision, health practices, and plans suited to outdoor conditions.

  • Early Achievers is Washington’s early learning quality recognition and improvement system. Participation connects programs with coaching, professional learning, and ongoing quality-improvement tools. Participation and a specific quality rating are separate statuses.

  • Our school commits to one teacher for every four children, supporting close relationships and supervision. This is Tender Leaves’ staffing approach, separate from general state licensing ratios.

  • Teachers help children settle in, learn routines, and build friendships at their own pace.

  • Children wear weather-appropriate layers. Covered areas offer shelter; severe conditions follow our emergency weather plan.

  • Rain boots, a waterproof jacket, and layers suited to the day help children stay comfortable. Warm layers are especially important in winter.

  • Our flexible routine includes circle time, outdoor exploration, stories, snacks, and small-group activities. The school day also includes an intentional rest period.

  • Staff are CPR and First Aid certified. We provide first aid, notify families, and follow emergency procedures.

  • Brightwheel updates, learning documentation, and parent-teacher conferences help families follow their child’s development.

  • We accept WCCC and MCCYN tuition assistance. Contact us about using your benefits.

  • Share your interest first. We’ll discuss availability and next steps; formal enrollment follows through Brightwheel.

Let’s talk about your family.

Sometimes a conversation is the best next step.

I’m Interested