Hidden Valley

Forest School

Hidden Valley Forest School (HVFS) is a licensed nature-based program featuring both indoor and outdoor elements, for ages 4 through 8. The program was designed to combine a play-based approach to early childhood education with the many benefits of nature immersion.

Our Mission

To offer children a safe, nurturing space where they can develop their highest cognitive, physical, social, and emotional potential, naturally through play and nature immersion.

What We Offer (2024-2025):

Pre-K

  • Hours: 9am-2pm

  • Monday-Friday

  • Parents can select individual days of the week that work for them, depending on availability.

  • Aftercare available on Mondays (3:00-5:00 pm, $15/hour)

  • Ages 4-5, must be potty trained.

K-2 (2024-2025)

  • Hours: 8:30am - 3:00pm

  • Parents can select individual days of the week that work for them, depending on availability.

  • Younger siblings in the Pre-K program can stay until 3pm pick-up time.

  • Ages: 5-8

Our Setup and Approach

  • 9-acre wooded property that includes a large pond, hills, meadow, trails, creeks, and mature trees. Certified natural habitat by the National Wildlife Federation.

  • Direct access to the Crozet Trail System.

  • Indoor classroom spaces.

  • Outdoor learning and exploration all year round, in all weather conditions and terrains.

  • Natural playscape that includes mud kitchen, sandbox, creek, climbing dome, loose parts, and plenty of space for active, creative play.

  • We understand and protect children’s developmental needs, including their right to play freely and learn from play, providing plenty of play opportunities throughout the day, every day.

  • Tailored curriculum that reflects each child’s unique interests and learning styles.

  • Individualized attention in a mixed age, small group setting (teacher/student ration: 1/6).

  • No homework. (Let children be children and enjoy their free time for continued child-led exploration and precious family time.)

  • Teacher-student relationships guided by respectful parenting and circle of security principles (based on attachment theory). Our relationships and interactions with our learners are always guided by these foundational principles.