Santa Margarita Children's Center

Nature-based Preschool

Fostering Healthy
Child Development

Children use their whole bodies to explore, experiment, and solve problems. At Santa Margarita's, we use nature, in conjunction with multi-sensory active learning, to support whole-child development.

Our Philosophy

Developmentally
Appropriate Curriculum

Childhood is a time to move, play, and explore. In our safe and nurturing environment, we have a robust nature-focused, play-based curriculum.

Childhood is a time to move, play, and explore. In our safe and nurturing environment, we have a nature-focused, play-based curriculum.

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Learn More About Our Curriculum

Nature

Research shows that time outdoors in nature greatly benefits childrens’ learning and development, is critical for physical health, and promotes active, engaged, meaningful learning.

Play

Research on the effects of play continue to show positive benefits: play inspires creativity, builds confidence, and develops cognitive, critical thinking, and motor skills.

Outdoor Learning

The Benefits of Outdoor Learning

Children learn about and understand the world through their outdoor classroom experiences.

Physical

An increase in physical development, capability, and activity, which set up patterns for an active, healthy lifestyle.

Cognitive

Stronger problem-solving and communication skills. Developing an interest in science and math through connecting with nature.

Psychological

Higher, more positive self-esteem. Relationship building in a cooperative environment. Social-emotional mastery.

World View

Familiarity with and appreciation of nature and stewardship for the environment. Wide, expansive view of how the world works.

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Learn More About outdoor Learning

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Enrichment

Activities

At Santa Margarita’s, we understand that learning goes beyond the classroom and offer a variety of enrichment activites to enhance a child’s development. Our play-based approach is woven around a variety of mediums.

We understand that learning goes beyond the classroom and offer a variety of enrichment activites to enhance a child’s development.

Academic Enrichment

Gardening

Field Trips

Nature Exploration

Family-Lending Library

Spanish Class

Book Bag Program

Music Circle Time

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Programs

Our Childcare Programs

Our play-based approach is woven around a variety of mediums, with the give-and-take of child-and-teacher interactive play important in helping children expand their language, cognitive, and social development.

Redwood Trees

Children 2.9 years of Age by September 1st

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Eucalyptus Trees

Children 4 years of Age by September 1st

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Willow Trees

Transitional Kindergarten Mixed Age Group

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Summer Program

Mixed Age Group

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Redwood Trees

Children 2.9 years of Age by September 1st

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Eucalyptus Trees

Children 4 years of Age by September 1st

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Willow Trees

Transitional Kindergarten Mixed Age Group

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Summer Program

Mixed Age Group

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We'd love to hear from you!

1055 Las Ovejas Ave, Ste 5, San Rafael, CA 94903

(415) 497-8596

arleenu@smccenter.us

SANTA MARGARITA CHILDREN’S CENTER