De La Madre (of the Mother) Daycare creates a community for young children which fosters free play and nurtures connection to nature. It is safe & simple environment where children can feel as though they belong.

We believe that structured academics (not of practical relevance; of only theoretical interest - Oxford Language) has NO place in early childhood, we allow plenty of play-based learning to unravel organically in a natural environment. Mother Earth is the best place to facilitate these events and our rustic daycare environment is primarily outdoors to do just this. Our outdoor learning environment is informed by the 12 best practice indicators developed b the Natural Learning Initiative at North Carolina State University.

We offer our gentle nature-based curriculum where child are exposed to a monthly nature-based module via art and stories. Here are just a few of the ways they will learn through playful exploration through the lens of nature:

• Sensory play with water, dirt and sand

• Fine and gross motor skill development through outdoor free play 

• Natural cycles such as weather pattern, seasons, moon cycles & more

• Gardening & animal care

• Food awareness through gardening & snack preparation

• Promotes physical activity

We implement the method of positive discipline, as created by Dr Jane Nelson; “To create a peaceful world by teaching Positive Discipline social emotional life skills for respectful relationships.”

Booklist:

Simplicity Parenting - Kim John Payne ***a must read***

Hunt, Gather, Parent - Michaelleen Doucleff

Positive Discipline, the first 3 years & Positive Discipline for preschoolers - Dr Jane Nelson

You are your Child’s first Teacher - Rahima Baldwin Dancy

Raising Good Humans - Hunter Clarke-Fields

Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids - Dr Laura Markham

Braiding Sweetgrass - Robin Wall Kimmerer

Women who run with Wolves - Clarissa Pinkola Estes