Frequently Asked Questions 

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about our program. If you have any remaining questions, please reach out to [email protected].

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  • We have locations in North Olmsted at the Rocky River Nature Center, Mayfield Village at the Nature Education Building within the North Chagrin Reservation, and our newest location in Garfield Heights in Garfield Park Reservation. 

  • Our classes are ages 3-5 with all children together in a single group. Children must be 3 by August 1 prior to the start of the school year and fully potty trained by the start of school.   

  • We have very low ratios of no more than 12 children with two teachers.  

  • To provide families with flexibility, we offer several different class options. These are: 

    • Monday-Wednesday, 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. ($3,366 / child) 

    • Thursday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. ($2,250 / child) 

    • Monday-Wednesday, 12:30 p.m. - 3:30p.m. ($3,366/ child) 

    • Families can choose a 5-day option by selecting both the M-W and the Th-F 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. options ($5,607 / child) 

    • Our Garfield Park location offers Tuesday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ($10,000 / child) or two days per week 9:00 a.m - 4:00 p.m. ($5,000 / child)     

  • The school year begins in early September and ends in Mid-May with short breaks on in November, December and April. This is a 9-month program and requires a commitment for the entire school year. 

  • Cleveland Metroparks Nature Preschool is licensed through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. 

  • Nature Preschool teachers are early childhood professionals with extensive experience working with young children. Each teacher holds a degree in Early Childhood Education, a related field, or equivalent experience.  

  • An important part of the Nature Preschool program is a commitment to allow children to experience time outdoors in all types of weather, including rain, snow, and cold. We spend at least part of the day outside all year round (dangerous weather excepted). To help ensure children remain comfortable, families are provided with a recommended equipment list.  

  • Yes! In addition to other summer camp programs offered by Cleveland Metroparks, Nature Preschool holds mini sessions in the months of June and July. These are bite-sized versions of our school-year program. Look for these programs in the summer camp offerings.

  • Registration is in February prior to the start of the school year. It is online and is first-come, first-served. Visit our registration page for more details.