Curriculum​

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At Lake Edge, learning happens through nature and play.

 

Lake Edge uses the Wisconsin Model of Early Learning Standards (WMELS) to ensure children are meeting state requirements for growth and development—but we do it in a nature-based way! The naturalists at Heckrodt Wetland Reserve helped us to create a curriculum that is unique, one of a kind curriculum, that is unique just for us. This curriculum follows the rhythm of the seasons, keeping children connected to the world around them. We also draw from engaging curriculum models such as Project Learning Tree, Project Wet, and Project Wild.

As a nature-based play school, we give families the promise of daily outdoor experiences and the freedom for children to learn through play. We believe play is a child’s work—the most natural and meaningful way for them to grow.

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The benefits of a play school are woven into every day at Lake Edge:

•  Learning through play builds language, problem-solving, and early academic skills.

• Social-emotional growth happens as children share, cooperate, and build friendships.

•  Creativity and imagination flourish through art, music, dramatic play, and hands-on exploration.

•  Cognitive development emerges through problem-solving, sorting, and open-ended questioning.

• Physical growth strengthens fine and large motor skills through active play indoors and out.

• Communication and language skills grow as children explore letters, numbers, and sounds in meaningful contexts.

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At Lake Edge, children are encouraged to be active, creative explorers who try new ideas, think independently, and discover their unique voice. This foundation helps them grow into independent, self-confident, and inquisitive learners—ready to take on the world.

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"If we really want children to thrive we need to let their connection to nature nurture them." Claire Warden

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