Catkins Nature School offers child-led, play-based early outdoor education designed around each learner’s interests and development. Its inquiry-driven approach uses an emergent curriculum, allowing children’s questions and discoveries to shape their learning. The school emphasizes hands-on experiences, time outdoors, and connection with the natural world, encouraging children to explore in different weather and build resilience through everyday adventures.

Programs include school-year offerings, the Kitkins Family Program, and summer programs. Outdoor education takes place at Dover Park, which is owned and operated by YRPA; the school also directs visitors to information about YRPA and John H. Dover Memorial Park. Families can submit an interest form, inquire about programs, or contact the school with questions.

Catkins describes its approach as starting with the place and resources at hand, helping children make sense of the world through experience rather than relying only on formal instruction. The school is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. It also invites applications from educators interested in facilitating place-based, phenological learning outdoors.