Building Blocks Nature School is an award-winning, Reggio-inspired, nature-based preschool in Highland, Michigan. We believe every child has a right to a joyful, play-filled childhood and that children are capable, curious learners. Our philosophy honors the environment as the “third teacher,” values strong family partnerships, and supports social-emotional growth through connection and co-regulation.

Our curriculum is play-based and inquiry-driven, emerging from children’s interests and guided by thoughtful teacher observation. Literacy, math, science, and the arts are woven naturally into project work, nature exploration, and hands-on discovery. Children spend approximately 60-70% of their day outdoors, building resilience, confidence, creativity, and problem-solving skills through meaningful experiences.

What makes Building Blocks unique is our fully integrated outdoor classroom model in all seasons, our emphasis on loose-parts play and healthy risk-taking, and our commitment to restoring and protecting childhood. We are more than a preschool—we are a community dedicated to nurturing capable, compassionate, and confident children through play, nature, and strong relationships. Rain or shine.