The mission of Sol Shine Nature Preschool is to provide a natural setting for children to attend an exceptional preschool where they will learn and grow while at the same time inspiring them to love nature. With a Forest Kindergarten program, our students are encouraged to play and learn based on their interests. Teachers act as guides who provide naturalist information, ask probing questions, and inspire students to be curious in a safe and nurturing environment. 

We believe that the ideal classroom for preschool age children is outside in nature. Nature plays an important role in the cognitive, creative, physical, emotional and social development of young children. Children who spend time in nature are healthier, can think more clearly, have an easier time paying attention and have the ability to cope more effectively with stress. 

We believe in the inherent value of play. Children learn best through direct hands-on experiences. At Sol Shine, our students fill their days with authentic play experiences led by their own interests. These experiences help our children to grow and refine their skills in problem-solving, persistence, invention, and initiative. 

We believe that children need time to just be themselves. Not only do they need to time to play, but they need time to work on social skills with other children in a safe and nurturing environment. We help our students become socially competent and have self-confidence which gives them a solid foundation for future success.  

We believe that an inquiry-based teaching style is best. Asking probing questions gets children thinking at higher levels and promotes curiosity. 

We believe in regular reflection with our students about their experiences at Sol Shine. We set aside time for our students to discuss, ask questions and document things that have happened and what we’ve observed.

Sol Shine is a true Forest Kindergarten (or Waldkindergarten) program, where learning happens almost entirely outdoors. Our students spend their days outside—rain or shine—immersed in nature. To ensure every child thrives in all seasons, we educate both parents and students on proper outdoor gear so that every day is a success, no matter the weather.

Sol Shine’s founder, Colleen Smith, was trained and certified by Erin Kenny, the late founder of Cedarsong Nature School, the first Forest Kindergarten in the U.S. Guided by “The Cedarsong Way,” our program is built on key principles that shape our approach to outdoor education:

• Total Nature Immersion (unstructured free time in nature)

• Interest-led Flow Learning

• Emergent Curriculum

• Place-Based Education

• Inquiry-Based Teaching Style

• Positive Reinforcement Approach

• Emphasis on Individual Empowerment and Group Bonding

• Respect for others, self and the living earth

• Small class sizes (10 students max per class)

• Low student : teacher ratio 

9:00 - 9:10am     Student drop-off

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9:10 - 11:00am   Outdoor learning and play

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11:00 - 11:20am   Lunch

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11:20 - 12:30pm  Outdoor learning and play

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12:30 - 12:40pm  Student pick-up

Sol Shine operates on a similar calendar to the Yakima School District.

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Our first day of school is in early September and we end mid- June. We break for federal holidays and two weeks in the winter. 

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Calendars can be found under the Parent Resources tab.

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Tuition is $299 per month for 2-day a week programs, and $439 for 3-day a week programs. Although some months have more school days than others, we spread the cost equally throughout the 10-month school year. 

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Tuition can be paid either privately or through Working Connections Child Care, the state child care subsidy benefit program. To find out if you qualify for WCCC, click here. 

Private pay is accepted via an auto-pay system for checking and savings accounts on  on the first business day of each month, September through June. 

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Yes! At Sol Shine, we embrace the Scandinavian saying: “There is no bad weather, only bad clothing.” Our year-round outdoor program helps children build resilience, adaptability, and a deep connection to nature—no matter the season.

To keep students comfortable, we work closely with parents to ensure they have the right gear for all weather conditions. We also have a cozy indoor shelter available for warming up and drying off when needed.

In cases of extreme or unsafe weather, we will cancel school to prioritize the safety of our students and staff.

Yes! At Sol Shine, we embrace the Scandinavian saying: “There is no bad weather, only bad clothing.” Our year-round outdoor program helps children build resilience, adaptability, and a deep connection to nature—no matter the season.

To keep students comfortable, we work closely with parents to ensure they have the right gear for all weather conditions. We also have a cozy indoor shelter available for warming up and drying off when needed.

In cases of extreme or unsafe weather, we will cancel school to prioritize the safety of our students and staff.

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For more in-depth information about our program, please check out our Parent Handbook