Snails & Turkey Tails Nature Preschool

At Snails & Turkey Tails Nature School, nature is our classroom and curiosity leads the way. Our nature-based, early childhood program for children ages 2-4, invites young learners to observe, discover, and adventure at their own pace. Each day is filled with rich sensory experiences, hands-on exploration, shared laughter, and quiet moments of awareness and connection.

Children take part in scavenger hunts to gather materials for crafting, as well as repurpose items that might otherwise end up in the landfill. Creativity is always unfolding, and students surprise us daily with their imaginative ideas and unique creations. They try new challenges like balancing on a slackline, build skills like working with hammers and handsaws, make blackberry paint with a mortar and pestle, and prepare imaginative dishes in the mud kitchen.

Mornings are spent exploring the creek and trails—following animal tracks, climbing logs, splashing in puddles, and creating with natural materials. We read stories, ride bikes, trikes, and scooters, observe seasonal changes, and learn through play guided by imagination, collaboration, and a sense of adventure. 

Location

Join us at beautiful Stolte Grove in Mill Valley. Stolte Grove is a serene, shady redwood sanctuary located in Homestead Valley, featuring towering redwood trees, oaks, and a small creek. This "hidden gem" offers a natural, quiet escape with hiking trails, local wildlife like hummingbirds and hawks, and, in early summer, wild plums. 

Our program is a wonderful complement to a preschool or homeschool schedule, offering rich outdoor experiences and small-group learning. Sessions run from September through May. We offer summer camps from June-August, as well as seasonal camps throughout the year.