Welcome to Suncatcher Forest School
At Suncatcher Forest School, our mission is to provide a fun, safe, and enriching environment where children can learn, grow, and build lasting friendships through outdoor exploration. We believe that nature is the best classroom, offering endless opportunities for discovery, creativity, and adventure.
Our nature-based learning approach nurtures curiosity and confidence as children engage in hands-on experiences that spark a lifelong love of learning. Through child-led exploration and thoughtfully guided activities, we foster independence, resilience, and a deep connection with the natural world.
We follow the Knowledge Seeds curriculum and adapt our program to each child's unique interests and developmental needs.
Our flexible daily rhythm allows children to follow their passions while fully immersing themselves in the wonders of nature.
At Suncatcher, we prioritize safety, inclusion, and a strong sense of belonging. Every group is led by two experienced educators, ensuring attentive supervision, gentle guidance, and consistent encouragement throughout the day.
We also maintain an open-door policy and actively encourage family involvement, promoting clear communication and a vibrant sense of community.
In Suncatcher Forest School play-based education, curiosity, and nature come together to create meaningful early childhood experiences.
Why choose Suncatcher Forest Preschool
Enrolling Children Ages 30 Months & Up – We warmly welcome young explorers as they begin their journey into outdoor learning, offering a developmentally appropriate, play-based approach.
Knowledge Seeds Curriculum – Our hands-on, story-based learning program is designed to spark curiosity and foster a lifelong love of learning.
Inclusive & Accessible – We accept state subsidies, making our enriching, nature-based education accessible to more families.
Private & Scenic Location – Nestled on private land atop Cougar Mountain in Issaquah, our school offers a secure, peaceful, and inspiring environment where children can run, climb, explore, and connect with nature every day.
Supporting Bilingual Families & English Learners – We celebrate language diversity and provide a welcoming space for children from multilingual households, helping them grow confident in both English and their home language.
Family-Friendly Transition – Starting in a new learning environment is a big step! We offer a two-week trial period to support a smooth and positive transition for both children and parents.
At Suncatcher Forest School, we go beyond traditional early education—empowering children through knowledge, social-emotional growth, self-directed play, and a deep connection with the natural world.
Join our community and watch your child thrive in nature!
School Break Camps
Suncatcher Forest School camps are designed to be accessible, welcoming, and enriching for all children, providing a space where everyone can thrive, feel a sense of belonging, and create lasting memories in the natural world.
Benefits of Our Forest Camps:
Deep Connection with Nature – Children develop a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world through hands-on experiences with plants, animals, and seasonal changes.
Unstructured Play & Creativity – Time in the forest encourages imaginative play, problem-solving, and innovation, allowing kids to create their own games, build forts, and explore freely.
Physical & Mental Well-Being – Fresh air, movement, and sensory experiences help improve physical health, reduce stress, and boost mood, fostering resilience and emotional balance.
Strong Social Bonds – Through teamwork, storytelling, and group challenges, children build friendships, collaboration skills, and confidence in a supportive, mixed-age environment.
STEM & Hands-On Learning – Our activities integrate science, engineering, and environmental education, sparking curiosity through real-world experiences with fire, water, earth, and air.
Life Skills & Independence – Whether learning to safely start a fire, navigate the forest, or cook over a campfire, children gain self-reliance and valuable outdoor skills in a fun and safe setting.
A Lifelong Love for the Outdoors – By fostering respect and appreciation for nature, we inspire children to become stewards of the environment and carry these experiences into adulthood/ school break camps
Our Partners
