Business Details
Nature-Based STEM Preschool in San Clemente
At Gratitude Garden Preschool, we have dedicated ourselves to creating a nurturing environment where children thrive through nature-based, STEM-focused education. Founded on principles of curiosity, creativity, and gratitude, our program integrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into daily exploration while prioritizing social-emotional development and artistic expression. Our team of experienced educators cultivates resilience and compassion, guiding young minds to approach learning with confidence and joy.With a Reggio-inspired philosophy, we emphasize hands-on discovery in a non-toxic, nature-rich setting that sparks imagination and critical thinking. Parents consistently praise our warm, family-like atmosphere and the visible enthusiasm children show for attending school. Our commitment to holistic growth ensures each child develops a lifelong love for learning while building foundational skills for future academic success.
Services
Preschool Program
Kindergarten Prep
STEM Curriculum
Social and Emotional Development
Expressive Arts
Ecology Education
Technology Integration
Highlights and features
- We offer a Reggio-inspired STEM curriculum with experienced, degreed educators
- Our nature-based approach integrates science, art, and emotional development
- We cultivate gratitude, resilience, and creativity through meaningful play
- Parents consistently praise our nurturing, family-like environment
- Our program develops 21st-century skills through imaginative exploration
What people say
Magical environment
Nurturing staff
Creative approach
Nature-based learning
Thriving children
Services
Preschool Program
Our preschool program fosters holistic development through nature-based exploration and STEM integration. Children engage in hands-on scientific discovery while developing social-emotional skills and creative expression. The curriculum emphasizes character growth through gratitude practices and collaborative play in a non-toxic, Reggio-inspired environment.
STEM Curriculum
Our STEM-focused approach incorporates science, technology, engineering, and math into daily activities through natural experimentation. Children build foundational skills by exploring ecological concepts, simple machines, and creative problem-solving in outdoor and classroom settings that spark curiosity.
Social Development
We prioritize social-emotional learning through guided interactions that build empathy, communication skills, and conflict resolution. Our educators create supportive environments where children develop confidence, resilience, and compassionate connections with peers through structured and free-play activities.
Expressive Arts
Artistic development is nurtured through diverse media, music, and movement activities. Children explore self-expression using natural materials and recycled resources while developing fine motor skills and imaginative thinking in our creatively designed learning spaces.
Ecology Education
Our nature-based curriculum immerses children in environmental stewardship through garden exploration and outdoor discovery. Students learn ecological concepts by interacting with plants, animals, and natural systems while developing appreciation for sustainable practices in daily activities.
People
Dr. Rey
Director
Dr. Rey leads our educational team with extensive expertise in early childhood development and Reggio-inspired methodologies. Her innovative approach combines STEM education with character cultivation, creating a nurturing environment where children thrive academically and emotionally through nature-based learning.
Mr. Mitchell
Music Director
Mr. Mitchell develops our music curriculum, creating original compositions that reflect student creativity and collaborative learning. He guides children in musical expression through interactive sessions that reinforce classroom themes while fostering appreciation for collaborative artistic creation.
Questions
What makes your preschool program unique?
Our Reggio-inspired STEM curriculum combines nature-based exploration with scientific discovery, emphasizing social-emotional growth and creative expression in a non-toxic environment.
What age groups do you serve?
We provide preschool programs for toddlers through kindergarten preparation, focusing on age-appropriate developmental milestones and learning through play.
Are your teachers qualified?
All our educators hold relevant degrees and certifications, with specialized training in early childhood development and Reggio-inspired teaching methods.
How do you incorporate technology?
We integrate age-appropriate technology through interactive STEM projects that complement hands-on learning and creative problem-solving activities.
Can I schedule a school tour?
Yes, we encourage prospective families to schedule personalized tours to experience our nurturing environment and innovative educational approach firsthand.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Kelly Blaes
Feb 03, 2020
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Our 2 year old daughter just started going to this school in January and so far we are loving it!! When we searched for schools, we wanted a place that balances indoor and outdoor time as well as teaches children emotional intelligence. So far she loves the school and we cannot be any more pleased.
Ryan Squirrell
Jan 07, 2020
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Amazing Preschool. This will be the second year our daughter has attended this school. Our family could not be more pleased with the staff, facility, and the education she is receiving. We have all made loving relationships with the parents and other students. Best little community. Thank you Gratitude Garden.
Angel Howlett
Oct 03, 2019
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Gratitude Garden is an incredible preschool with unparalleled S.T.E.A.M. education and fantastic teachers who are passionate about encouraging children to grow and thrive. It's amazing how their holistic approach puts the emphasis on supporting each unique child and the full range of what makes a compassionate, resilient and of course grateful community member. A definite love of learning is instilled in every child who is lucky enough to attend school here!
Rebecca Stark
Sep 25, 2019
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The entire staff is wonderful, caring and nurturing. Our son loves this school so much we increased his schedule from 3 full days to 5 full days. Such an amazing school and encourages imagination and exploration of the world around them. My son has grown up so much since starting 7 months ago. We feel so blessed and grateful that our son is at this school and we know he couldn't be in a better preschool.
