Who We Are
Mountain View Play School is a nature based, early childhood program, nestled within a quaint homestead in Asheville, NC.
Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that children are capable, curious, and worthy of deep respect. We create an environment where children are given the freedom to play, explore, build independence, and develop genuine connection with the people and world around them.
Inspired by Montessori and Reggio Emilia, our curriculum weaves together hands-on-learning, imaginative play, and practical life experiences through seasonal rhythms, forest exploration, art, animal care, and more.
Nature is the heart of our school.
Connection
We approach guidance with empathy, firm and loving boundaries, and respectful communication. Connection is our first approach when it comes to anything. It is here where your child will experience cause and effect with other people outside of their immediate family. We take this role seriously and hold it with honor. When children are met with a safe and predictable environment, they feel safe to express themselves, and while with trusted friends and adults they are able to explore and grow through conflict resolution. Cause and effect begins at a very young age. We build the container and offer the guidance, while giving your child the needed space to explore. This is where children are able to understand what it means to wait their turn, to work with others, gain confidence and independence, and make repair. We take great care in this aspect of our program. Each teacher strives to be a leading example for our children.
What makes us unique?
At Mountain View each moment is intentional. From the way we enter the class space, to how we play and interact, to how we plan our lessons. Each moment of our day is a part of a bigger rhythm. The in breath of coming together to begin our day with connection and song to the out breath of navigating the classroom and exploring our stations. In and out we breathe with our students through whatever the day holds. We keep each child in our minds eye and consider how we may best support them in their journey here at Mountain View. Each session we will offer parent teacher conferences to be able discuss any goals you may have for your child or discuss any concerns that come to mind. Outside of these conference times we are available to offer our expertise in education and child development to help you find balance and confidence in your own home. This is a part of being within the Mountain View Community. We as parents were never meant to walk this path alone. We are here for you.
In addition, we love involving our families when possible. We offer the opportunity to step inside of our class space to be a morning helper or even lead the occasional lesson or project. We take seasonal family hikes and arrange optional meet ups throughout the year.
What we offer:
Seasonally based curriculum focused on hands on learning
One acre of private land at the end of a quiet street just off of Tunnel rd. We are both easily accessible and removed from the hustle
Direct access to the surrounding Pisgah National Forest where we spend time hiking, exploring, and observing the world around us.
Highly trained and passionate teachers
A fully functional indoor and outdoor classroom giving space for all weather and all season play
A whole brain approach to learning
Animal care and gardening