Welcome to Thorne Nature Preschool
Thorne Nature Preschool is built on the simple belief that kids grow better in nature. Our Preschool offers a unique early childhood education experience for children to learn, grow, and reach their full potential through daily immersion in nature with caring, attentive mentors. With dual goals of fostering the development of the whole child and nature connection, Thorne Nature Preschool prepares young children to succeed in school and in life.
Based at our Lafayette Nature Center, Colorado’s first custom-designed nature preschool facility. Thorne Nature Preschool is a popular program and has a waitlist. We encourage families to complete an interest form when their child is two years old or younger. If you are interested in attending an open house, please reach out to preschool@thornenature.org.
Our Program
Thorne Nature Preschool is for children ages 3 to 6 and is based in Lafayette, CO at the Lafayette Nature Center.
The typical school day runs from 9 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., with a full-day option until 3:30 p.m. and early care beginning at 8:30 a.m.
The school year runs from late August through May, with summer camp sessions available in June and July.
Thorne Nature Preschool is a Universal Preschool (UPK) Colorado provider.
Click here to see the current program fees.
How to Enroll in Thorne Nature Preschool
Enrollment applications are accepted year-round. Fill out an interest form to get started today, and click on the button below to learn more about the enrollment process. We encourage families to complete an interest form as soon as possible, when their child is two years old or younger.
Our Educational Philosophy
Thorne Nature Preschool provides an early childhood education experience that fosters growth of the whole child - cognitive, physical, social, emotional, and creative, while cultivating a profound connection to nature. Utilizing integrated academic and social curriculum grounded in nature, Thorne Nature Preschool nurtures the well-being of each child while preparing them to succeed in school and in life.
Our Teachers
Teachers play a very important role in a child’s preschool experience. We are lucky to have a team of teachers who are passionate about both nature-based education and giving children the support that they need to learn, grow, and thrive. All staff have the necessary early childhood qualifications but also have experience and training in mentoring children in nature.
Testimonials
Check Out Our Nature Blog!
Bring the Thorne experience home through our Better in Nature Blog. We’ve curated some of our favorite activities, places to connect with nature, gear recommendations, and articles about nature’s benefits.
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