What people are saying
Parent Testimonials & Reviews:
“We absolutely loved our 3 years at the NELAFS. Our kid went there from age 2.5 to 5.5, and it made us some of our happiest memories in Los Angeles. The teachers and admin actually care about your kid, and it shows. The quick responses of teachers and admin are unmatched. The morning drop offs in a beautiful tree lined shady forest, and the pick ups with our child running to us shouting "mommy!!" across a green field under the shade of ancient trees is something I will never forget. At school , our child learned to interact with others, and speak up for themselves. They learned to appreciate the mud, and love a bug. The outdoors are now a core part of our kids' memory, and I am so grateful for that. Our kid will have the rest of their lives to spend indoors. It is so nice that the first part of their life was spent in nature, with teachers who absolutely cared.”
“This school is fantastic. The pedagogy goes beyond your regular Forest school, with care and attention to the different kids depending on age, needs, abilities, etc. My older kid loved it and now my younger kid is there. I love dropping her off knowing she will be playing outside, in nature, with a focus on a word-view that is teaching her to feel empowered, kind, helpful, and caring. she comes home dirty and happy!”
“I'm so glad we discovered Forest School! My toddler and I attend the Hummingbirds program, and it's been a joy to watch him explore and engage with nature in new ways. He gets so much sensory play through the program. As a first-time mom, it's also been incredibly helpful to observe Becca's play-based approach with the kids. We definitely hope to continue with the preschool programs once he's old enough!”
“We are so grateful for our son's experience here! He attended the infant class (hummingbirds) and then graduated up to the toddler class (chickadees). This is so much more than kids just being left to their own devices outside, their nature-based approach is thoughtful and impactful! The director and teachers have created an environment and experience that is based on real educational principles, where kids learn and grow from the natural world around them. They kept my very active boy safe and engaged all while supporting his development.”
“Our son attended NELA forest school from ages 4-6, starting in the Sparrows class for preschool and continuing into the Hawks class for transitional kindergarten. Simply put: this school was one of the greatest gifts of his early childhood.
From the very first day, it was clear that this was not just a school -- it was a deeply thoughtful, child-centered community that honored who he was and helped him grow in the most meaningful ways. The teachers are exceptional -- warm, attentive, and deeply respectful of each child's individual rhythm. They truly see and celebrate each child.
The nature-based, play-driven curriculum allowed our son to thrive in a way that no traditional classroom ever could have. He became curious, confident, resilient, and deeply connected to the natural world around him. He learned how to ask questions, solve problems, collaborate with peers, and express himself -- all while climbing trees, building shelters, observing insects, and engaging with real life in real time.
By the time he moved on from the Hawks class, he was not only more than ready for the next step academically -- he was grounded, joyful, and full of love for learning. We are endlessly grateful for the foundation this program gave him, and would recommend it wholeheartedly to any family looking for something truly special.”