ACORN Nature School - Edu (NY)

5 /5 G H: I cannot recommend Acorn enough! First of all, the team of educators is outstanding: caring, thoughtful, supportive, and resourceful. Emily is a literal kid-whisperer, Sophie is a well of empathy and knowledge and the whole staff at Acorn is just harmonious and guides the children with a gentle but clear approach. The physical environment is also magical and unique, with a wealth of different outdoor spaces for kids to explore and learn about themselves, the world, and how to be with other kids. The indoor space is custom built, beautiful, and designed to encourage play, craft, and curiosity. My three-year old has been happier at Acorn than anywhere he went before. The team supported him through his difficult transition from his previous preschool, and now he comes home daily with "ten thousand thumbs up for school". Finally, Emily also communicates very clearly and openly with parents about everything, which is huge to us. I honestly feel that Acorn is not just a preschool, but a true partner in helping raise our child.

5 /5 Beth Leibensperger: My daughter has attended Acorn summer camp for the past two years and has absolutely loved her experience. What we have liked most is the open-ended, imaginative, independent approach to learning. Emily and her supportive, dedicated staff have made Acorn a truly joyful place. The kids spend tons of time outside in the forest at various playspaces. We also love the extensive playground which includes rope swings and a slack line. There is also a gorgeous indoor space for building with blocks, crafts, dress-up, etc. We highly recommend Acorn!

5 /5 Kristen Anderson: Our older child is part way through her first year at Acorn and will be an Acorn kid for the following school year as well—absolutely no doubt or question in our mind about her being here for another year! Not only has she grown in her independence, kindness, knowledge and relationship with nature, but I have grown as a parent too as I’m exposed to the way the teachers “parent” and help the kids navigate every day and every activity. We are so happy to be a part of the Acorn family and are looking forward to more years in the Acorn school for both of our children! It was very important to us that our child spend lots of time outside at school, but we also really appreciate the indoor and patio spaces at the school as well. It’s all very cozy and feels like a place you’d want to spend time in every day!

5 /5 Teri Hornsby: Acorn is such a magical place and we are so grateful our daughter is a part of it! Watching her grow and thrive over the past two years has been so wonderful. Every day embraces a new outdoor adventure and opportunities for learning. We have so much appreciation for the dedication of Acorns teachers and the amazing learning environment they provide.

5 /5 Meg Reichert: WE LOVE ACORN! We moved to Ithaca over the summer and wanted to find an afterschool program that allowed our kids to engage in play. And that is exactly what we have at Acorn. Emily and her team of amazing teachers have created an environment that encourages curiosity and learning. Our kids have grown in confidence during their time at Acorn. They are empowered to get outside in all weather, have new found independence, and have really formed a friend family with their classmates. They are excited everyday to go to Acorn and are tired when they come home. The instructors treat the kids with so much respect that my boys dont shy from asking questions and getting creative. I am so grateful that we found Acorn when we did. It has been a true gift this year.