Gardening is a part of our day in every season.
Nature curriculum
At Little Red Playschool, nature is not an occasional activity — it is part of our daily rhythm.
Our backyard garden offers children the opportunity to slow down, observe closely, and participate in real, meaningful work. Through planting, watering, harvesting, and exploring, children develop:
• Patience and perseverance
• Responsibility and care
• Curiosity and scientific thinking
• Sensory awareness
• Respect for living things
In a city environment like Washington, DC, access to natural space is precious. We intentionally protect unstructured outdoor time so children can dig, build, imagine, and discover.
The garden teaches lessons that cannot be rushed — and neither can childhood.
Raking and collecting leaves for art projects in Fall.
Fall – Rooting & Gathering (September–November)
Fall is a time to settle in, build community, and plant roots.
In the garden: Harvesting vegetables, collecting seeds, observing leaves turn color, preparing soil for rest
In art: Nature collages, warm watercolor palettes, gratitude journals
In kindness: Food collections for families, cards for community helpers, thankfulness circles
Focus: Friendships, routines, responsibility
Message: “We are planting roots.”
Painting outdoors on a sunny winter day.
Winter – Care & Reflection (December–February)
Winter invites slowing down and learning patience.
In the garden: Observing dormant plants, indoor seed experiments
In art: Handmade gifts, winter crafts, outdoor painting, card-making
In kindness: Winter care bags for neighbors, Valentine’s visits to seniors, compliment circles
Focus: Emotional awareness, empathy, patience
Message: “Even when we can’t see growth, it is still happening.”
Pressing flowers from the Spring garden.
Spring – Growth & Discovery (March–May)
Spring brings energy, curiosity, and exploration.
In the garden: Planting seeds, caring for sprouts, observing insects
In art: Botanical drawings, nature printing, bright spring colors
In kindness: Planting gifts for neighbors, Earth care projects, appreciation cards for teachers
Focus: Confidence, curiosity, initiative
Message: “Look how much you’ve grown.”
Planting summer blooms and caring for the garden.
Early Summer – Celebration & Sharing (June)
Summer invites reflection and joy.
In the garden: Harvesting, sharing produce, celebrating effort
In art: Portfolio reflections, “Kindness memory” books
In kindness: Thank-you notes, community chalk messages (where appropriate)
Focus: Reflection, pride, confidence
Message: “You made a difference.”
Just as the garden changes throughout the year, so do children. At Little Red Playschool, we honor each season of growth — nurturing curiosity, creativity, and kind hearts along the way.