Nature Based Preschool educator

Benefits

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Responsibilities

• Implement a nature-based curriculum indoors and outdoors
• Facilitate literacy and early math through hands-on exploration
• Support social-emotional development through connection-based practices
• Create seasonal provocations using natural materials
• Document student growth through observation and portfolios
• Maintain classroom safety and licensing standards
• Communicate professionally with families and team members

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Nature-Based Education, Early Childhood Education, Environmental Education, Outdoor Education, or closely related field
• Experience in a nature-based, forest school, or play-based setting
• Strong knowledge of child development
• Comfortable working outdoors year-round
• Excellent communication and classroom management skills

About

Frog Pond is a one-of-a-kind nature program located on two acres in the middle of the urban enclave that is Alexandria, VA. It is an inclusive program that teaches and nurtures children, families, and the world, with a nature-based, science-rich curriculum.

We focus on creating socially and emotionally intelligent learning environments, character development, outdoor play, and learning about nature in a holistic, nurturing, and stimulating environment. Our center promotes growth in all aspects of each young person’s development, and we welcome employees, children, and families of all races, religions, and creeds.

Classes

• We offer four different classes for children based on their age group: Swimmers (18 months to 2 years), Tadpole (2 to 3 years), Frog (3 to 4 years), and Dragonflies (4 to 5 1/2 years).
• Our low classroom ratio ensures a maximum of 64 children with an adult-to-child ratio exceeding licensing requirements.
• We include children with special needs and those receiving financial assistance, aiming for a diverse population.

Our Roots

The non-profit corporation, Mother Nurture Company, under which Frog Pond operates, was founded in 1998 by Pam Tinker, a physical therapist and experienced health care manager. As part of her lifelong mission in the community to advocate for people who have disabilities, she founded this early learning center and designed it to be wheelchair and walker accessible.

Her deep commitment to respecting and caring for Mother Earth prompted the corporate name, “Mother Nurture.” The name has multiple layers of meaning since the school gives children and families the nurturing as would be typical of a loving parent. It sustains mothers and fathers by providing high-quality child care for an extended day that allows parents to work with the confidence that their children’s lives are being enriched and nurtured.