Learning In Nature
Our Program.
Welcome to the Outdoor-In at Takoma Park Cooperative Nursery School.
Learning begins outdoors and flows seamlessly indoors, guided by our Outdoor-In philosophy.
Outside, our classroom and play yard are purposefully designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Neighborhood green spaces are part of our learning landscape. Children explore, discover, and problem-solve through multi-sensory experiences every day, with the environment itself as a co-teacher.
Inside, light-filled spaces extend outdoor discoveries into art, literacy, math, and science activities, creating a continuous flow of exploration and reflection. Our approach emphasizes connection, to the natural world, to each other, and to our community, helping children develop confidence, empathy, and a lifelong love of learning.
Every moment, indoors and out, is intentionally designed to nurture curiosity, connection, and belonging, offering a truly one-of-a-kind early learning experience.
grounded in play
We are grounded in play, connected with place, all weather, with floating clouds and tree branches above us, grass, paths, and sidewalks beneath our feet, surrounded by friends and neighbors with birds calling out their hello, hello, hello!
Parent Involvement
For over 80 years, the Cooperative School has built a community rooted in shared purpose. Generations of children, parents, and teachers have taken their first steps in learning together—outdoors, through play, and in partnership.
Family involvement is central to how we grow and sustain our school. In return, parents gain access to a vibrant community, parent education, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Serving on the board or a committee supports school operations, keeps tuition lower, and ensures fair pay for our professional staff. In the classroom, parents co-op alongside teachers—deepening their connection to the children, each other, and the curriculum.
This hands-on model strengthens trust, builds resilience, and reinforces our shared commitment to protecting children’s right to nature, play, and art.
Summer Camp Program (Tink)
Tinkering at the Cooperative School, known as Tink, is a summer day program. It does not require co-oping. Tink is designed for elementary school-age children, rising first graders through 5th grade.
Summer Camp registration will launch January 2026!