Field Station

Our Vision

Field Station Cooperative Preschool is a unique learning environment rooted in the natural wonders of the Indiana Dunes National Park. We believe in fostering a love of learning, critical thinking, creativity, and social skills in young minds through hands-on exploration and discovery in the great outdoors.

Our Mission

Our mission is to create sustainable educational programs based on nature study that cultivate:

• A love of learning: We encourage curiosity, exploration, and a passion for knowledge through engaging activities and investigations.
• Critical and independent thinking: We empower young minds to solve problems, ask questions, and think for themselves.
• Creativity and imagination: We nurture artistic expression, fostering a space where imagination and self-expression can flourish.
• Social skills: We promote respectful collaboration, teamwork, and social interaction.
• Self-confidence and self-esteem: We cultivate a positive learning environment that celebrates individual growth and fosters self-belief.

Our Approach

Our curriculum is designed to meet the diverse needs of young learners, with different programs tailored to pre-kindergarten and kindergarten enrichment. We utilize a nature-based approach that integrates exploration, discovery, and hands-on learning experiences in the outdoors.

What We Offer

We offer:

• Pre-kindergarten programs: Two-day and three-day classes for 3- and 4-year-olds.
• Kindergarten enrichment program: More advanced instruction for 4- and 5-year-olds.
• Summer camp: A four-day summer camp filled with outdoor adventures and learning experiences.

Join Us

Field Station Cooperative Preschool is a non-profit organization managed and run by dedicated parent volunteers. We encourage you to support our mission and join us in providing exceptional early childhood education rooted in the natural world.