Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Nature-Based Early Childhood Education in Takoma Park, MD
Founded in 1944, Takoma Park Cooperative Nursery School has been a leader in nature-based early childhood education for over eight decades. Our mission centers on fostering equity, community connection, and environmental stewardship through play- and place-based learning. We prioritize accessibility to nature for all children, integrating outdoor exploration with academic fundamentals in art, science, math, and literacy. Our unique co-op model engages families as active participants in education, reducing tuition costs while building stronger community ties. With a team of experienced educators, we cultivate curiosity, collaboration, and a deep sense of belonging in a diverse, inclusive environment.Our programs adapt to seasonal rhythms and environmental conditions, ensuring year-round learning beneath open skies. We serve families in Takoma Park and surrounding areas, offering mixed-age classes for children aged 2-5 and summer programs for elementary-age students. Our commitment to anti-racism, LGBTQIA+ affirmation, and disability inclusion shapes every aspect of our curriculum and community practices. As we enter our new space at 8204 Flower Avenue, we continue expanding our impact as a model for nature-connected, equitable education.
Services
Nature-based early education
Outdoor classroom programs
Family co-oping model
Equity initiatives
Summer camp (Tink)
Details
- Year established: 1944
Highlights and features
- We offer 80+ years of experience in nature-based early childhood education
- Our curriculum integrates outdoor learning with academic fundamentals
- Family co-oping model reduces tuition costs while building community
- Commitment to equity, anti-racism, and LGBTQIA+ affirmation
- New accessible outdoor learning space at 8204 Flower Avenue
Services
Nature-based Early Education
Our play- and place-based curriculum integrates nature exploration with academic fundamentals in art, science, math, and literacy. Children learn through hands-on experiences in outdoor classrooms, developing environmental stewardship and social-emotional skills. Programs operate year-round with weather-adaptive scheduling.
Family Co-oping Model
Families actively participate in classroom activities and school administration, reducing tuition costs while building community connections. Parents serve on committees or the Board of Directors, with flexible scheduling accommodating working and single-parent households through rotating classroom involvement.
Equity Initiatives
We prioritize equal access to nature-based education through anti-racist practices, LGBTQIA+ affirmation, and disability inclusion. Our programs actively address systemic inequities while fostering empathy and cultural competency in children and families through curriculum and community engagement.
Summer Camp (Tink)
Five-week summer program for elementary students featuring nature-based learning through tinkering and outdoor exploration. Designed for current kindergarteners through 5th graders, with improved accommodations for 2026 including enhanced facilities for diverse learning needs and seasonal adaptations.
Community Education
We extend learning beyond enrolled families through community outreach initiatives connecting children and adults to local ecosystems. Programs include urban nature exploration, environmental stewardship projects, and partnerships with neighborhood organizations to strengthen community ties through shared outdoor experiences.
People
Lead Teacher Morning Mixed-age Class
Lead Educator
Experienced early childhood educator with specialized training in nature-based curriculum development. Holds advanced degrees in education and regularly participates in professional development to enhance outdoor learning practices.
Lead Teacher Afternoon Prekindergarten
Lead Educator
Certified prekindergarten specialist with extensive experience in outdoor classroom management. Implements developmentally appropriate practices that integrate academic standards with nature exploration for 4-5 year olds.
Second Teacher
Assistant Educator
Supports both morning and afternoon classes with expertise in inclusive teaching practices. Focuses on individualized learning plans and facilitating social-emotional growth in mixed-age outdoor settings.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve children aged 2-5 years in our nursery school program and elementary-age students in our summer camp (Tink).
Is financial assistance available?
Yes, tuition assistance is available. Contact our office for more information about financial aid options.
What makes your program unique?
Our nature-based curriculum combines outdoor learning with academic fundamentals, supported by a family co-oping model that reduces costs and builds community.
How does the co-oping system work?
Parents take turns assisting in classrooms and school administration. This shared responsibility lowers tuition while creating stronger family connections to the learning process.
Are you accepting new enrollments?
We currently have openings for the Morning Mixed-age Class (2-3 year olds) for Fall 2025 enrollment.
What are your operating hours?
Morning class: Monday-Friday 8:30 AM-11:30 AM; Afternoon class: Monday-Friday 12:00 PM-3:00 PM during the school year.
