Welcome to Thorne Nature Preschool

Thorne Nature Preschool is built on the simple belief that kids grow better in nature. The 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.

Now enrolling for the ‘25-’26 school year and beyond, based at our new Lafayette Nature Center, Colorado’s first custom-designed nature preschool facility.

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Our Program

Thorne Nature Preschool is for children ages 3 to 6 and is based in Lafayette, CO at the brand-new Lafayette Nature Center.

The typical school day runs from 9 a.m. until 1:30 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 preschool summer sessions in June and July.
Thorne Nature Preschool is a Universal Preschool (UPK) Colorado provider.
Click here to see the current program fees.

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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.

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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.

Meet Our Teachers

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 are excited to share our school with your family!

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Testimonials

“It’s in my daughter’s personality to be careful and deliberate, but I have seen her grow, change, and become so confident at Thorne Nature Preschool.”

- SARAH HAUCK, THORNE NATURE PRESCHOOL PARENT

“I cannot give a higher recommendation for Thorne Nature Preschool. My daughter’s curiosity and love for the Earth and science was born here.”

- Nashalla Nyinda, Thorne Nature Preschool Parent

“Every day my son literally rushes out the door to school, excited to explore nature, to learn with his friends, and to interact with his amazing teachers -- we love how fun, wild, safe, informative, and challenging this school setting is!”

- Michael, Thorne Nature Preschool Parent

“Not only is time outside and in nature beneficial to all kids, but we’ve noticed our son has more confidence physically and socially because of the teacher’s approach to child development and meeting the needs of all kids.”

- Amanda, Thorne Nature Preschool Parent

“My son just seems to thrive when he’s outdoors. Emotionally I think he’s grown so much. It’s just been such a wonderful experience for him and for us as a family.”

- LAUREN WINER, THORNE NATURE PRESCHOOL PARENT

“At Thorne Nature Preschool the children develop a sense of awe, care, and respect for these special places and all the creatures that live in them. This deep connection to place in nature matters.”