Early Childhood Education Programs

Little Birds

(Caregiver & Child Classes for ages birth to 3)

Little Birds classes give your little one the chance to meet new animal friends, create nature crafts, sing songs, and explore outside. Perfect for parents, grandparents, nannies, and other caregivers who are seeking a unique and meaningful experience. While the seasons change before our eyes, Little Birds nurture their relationships with the natural world and with one another. New for school year 2023-34, Irvine will be offering a winter mini-session and Weekend Little Birds.

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Nature Preschool

(Nature-based classes for children age 3 to 5)

Our award winning, accredited preschool program helps children develop a foundation of academic skills through encounters in the natural world. We believe that empathy, love, curiosity, and respect are the truest foundation of learning.

Classes are nearly full for the 2023-24 school year. If you would like to be added to the waitlist for another class, please complete the online application. Families interested in 2024-25 or 2025-26 are encouraged to apply now.

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Registration Opens May 16th

Earth Friends Outdoors

(Outdoor learning and exploration for ages 4.5 to 12)

Irvine’s Earth Friends Outdoors offers an immersive outdoor learning experience for homeschool/unschooling/virtual learning families. We provide a tailored approach to learning for each student and documentation for their home school portfolio. Younger classes are modeled after the Forest Kindergarten model. New for school year 2023-24, Irvine is offering IRVINE DAYS, a full-day learning experience for students age 6-11.

Learn More: Earth Friends

What Families Are Saying

We couldn’t ask for a more amazing place for our son to start his schooling.  Your kind and welcoming approach has made such a lasting impact.  You have taught him how to embrace nature and respect his environment in a whole new and exciting way.  His first year was filled with wonder, love and friendship, and he cannot wait for next year.

Jackie, Bryan, and Christina Cimorelli, Nature Preschool Parents