Playgarden Preschool | Outdoor Program in Marin County

Our Philosophy:

A Home for Wonder

From redwood groves to puppet shows and farm chores, children at Tree Sprites Playgarden Preschool in San Anselmo are surrounded by rhythm, beauty, and gentle care. We honor each child’s natural pace, encouraging imaginative play and guiding through warmth, not instruction. Families are part of the journey too, joining in seasonal gatherings and community days that nurture shared growth and connection.

Rhythm of the Day

A steady flow of freedom, focus, and joy

Daily Schedule

9:00-9:10

Greeting & Arrival
‍We welcome friends with warmth, wash hands, and settle into the morning’s rhythm.

9:10-9:30

Art or Snack Preparation
‍Children help prepare food or explore a simple artistic activity outdoors.

9:30-10:20

Garden & Animal Care, Free Play
‍Time to tend the garden, feed the animals, and explore the play yard.

10:20-10:35

Circle Time
‍Songs, verses, and movement games attune our bodies and hearts to the day’s theme.

10:35-10:45

Preparing the Table
Children wash hands, visit the bathroom, and help set the outdoor table for snack.

10:45-11:15

Snack & Tidying
‍We share a wholesome snack together, then wash our own dishes.

11:15-12:15

Free Play on the Lower Playground
Creative play and nature exploration continue in our outdoor space.

12:15-12:25

Transition to Lunch
‍Time to wash hands and enjoy the nutritious lunch brought from home.

12:25-1:00

Lunch Outdoors
‍A simple, nourishing meal shared outside.

1:00-1:20

Story & Games
‍A quiet puppet show or circle game to close the day’s adventures.

1:20-1:30

Closing Song & Farewell
We gather together in gratitude before saying goodbye.

Aftercare

1:45 - 2:00

Puppet show or soft music brings the body into relaxation

2:00-3:15

Quiet Resting Time

3:15-3:45

Clean up make beds, enjoy snack and prepare to return home

Outdoor Life
& the Farm

Daily time outdoors caring for animals and tending the garden helps children build responsibility, empathy, and a living connection with the natural world.

Art, Story & Seasonal Magic

Watercolor painting, beeswax modeling, storytelling, and seasonal rituals invite children into a world of imagination, creativity, and joy.

The Role
of the Adult

Teachers guide by example, cultivating presence, warmth, and intention. Through their gestures and daily work, they create a safe and caring space where children feel free to explore, imagine, and thrive.

Our Playgarden

Learning through living soil, gentle animals, and helping hands

In our Playgarden, children care for animals, gather eggs, and tend the garden. Through these simple, meaningful tasks, they connect with the living rhythms of the earth and grow in patience, responsibility, and quiet joy.

Children at preschool gently feeding a fluffy white rabbit outdoors.

Our Community

Whole-family support for shared growth

At Tree Sprites, caring for children means caring for families too. Through our Parent Enrichment gatherings, we nurture reflection, connection, and community, supporting parents as they grow alongside their children throughout the year.

Seasonal Gatherings

Tree Sprites Playgarden Preschool hosts seasonal parent gatherings that foster connection, reflection, and celebration, strengthening community throughout the year.

Community Days

Families are invited to pitch in during garden workdays and festival preparations: co-creating the magic that keeps our school rhythms alive and thriving.

Shared Philosophy

Together, we shape a nurturing community rooted in trust, empathy, and a deep respect for the wonder of childhood.

A place for children to grow & families to feel at home

Enrollment is limited. We encourage early inquiries.

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