Frequently Asked Questions
What programs do you offer?
We offer two distinct programs: Wind Rose Montessori, an indoor work cycle program, and Magnolia Explorers, an outdoor program. Each program operates independently and runs for a maximum of 3.5 hours.
How long is each program?
Each program offers two sessions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Families can enroll their child in one session per day, with each session lasting no more than 3.5 hours.
Wind Rose Montessori
Morning:
8:30-12:00
Afternoon:
12:00-3:30
Magnolia Explorers
Morning:
8:30-12:00
Afternoon:
12:00-3:30
Can I enroll in both programs?
YES!
At Wind Rose Montessori and Magnolia Explorers, we offer a unique full-day learning experience by seamlessly integrating our two distinct programs.
Each program runs for only 3.5 hours, allowing children to spend half the day at Wind Rose Montessori, where they engage in the Montessori work cycle, and the other half fully outdoors at Magnolia Explorers, exploring flora, fauna, and community values.
If you choose to enroll in both programs—At midday, our dedicated teachers coordinate at the designated meeting point to smoothly transition children from one program to the other. This arrangement ensures that children enjoy a diverse and enriching educational experience from 8:30am to 3:30pm within our cohesive and nurturing environment.
Shire vs Rivendell
Wind Rose Montessori vs. Magnolia Explorers
Wind Rose Montessori is our indoor, Montessori-based academic program.
Magnolia Explorers is our outdoor nature-based learning program, rooted in exploration, seasonal rhythms, and Reggio-inspired provocations.
Shire Class
Morning: Montessori indoors (Wind Rose)
Afternoon: Outdoor exploration (Magnolia Explorers)
No nap/rest offered
Great for children who are ready for a focused morning followed by active outdoor time
Rivendell Class
Morning: Outdoor exploration (Magnolia Explorers)
Afternoon: Montessori indoors (Wind Rose)
Nap/rest is available
Ideal for children who benefit from a active outdoor start and still need an afternoon rest
Though Shire and Rivendell are technically two separate classes, they share the same space, follow a similar curriculum, and often combine for end-of-day play and school-wide events. It’s very much a shared community—just with different daily rhythms.
Tuition
Cost for Both Programs
Cost for One Program
Calendar
How much does waitlist cost?
Waitlist is free to apply. Completing the waitlist does not guarantee enrollment.
How do I know my place on the waitlist?
Our waitlist is completed on a first-come, first-served basis. We do our best to reach out to families as spaces open, but we also encourage families to check in periodically, as enrollment can shift quickly throughout the year. Please note that no spot is considered reserved until enrollment forms, tuition, and the security deposit have all been submitted.
Does my child need to be potty trained before enrollment?
Yes, we require children to be able to use the bathroom independently.
Here's what that typically means for our students:
Being able to let teachers know about bathroom needs
Managing clothing independently for bathroom trips
Staying dry throughout our adventure-filled day
Since one of our programs is spent exploring outdoors, we need to be a bit more particular about toileting independence than traditional indoor programs. When we're out in nature, managing accidents becomes trickier - we want to make sure everyone stays warm, dry, and fully engaged in our forest discoveries!
Outdoor Readiness Criteria
If you are interested in enrolling in our Magnolia Explorer’s program:
A child can join Wind Rose as early as 2.5 years old, as long as they meet the following outdoor readiness expectations:
Comes when their name is called
Can stay with the group during hikes and transitions
Demonstrates basic self-awareness and safety skills outdoors
Demostrates physical stamina of being able to comfortably walk at least one mile (at a very child friendly pace of course)
We know that not every 2.5-year-old — or any age kiddo — hits these milestones in the exact same way or on the exact same timeline. When you tour, we’ll have a kind, honest conversation together about your child’s readiness.
Our goal is simple: to make sure your child has wonderful, playful, safe days with us. Safety will always be our top priority, and we want every child to feel supported as they grow into these skills.
Do you serve lunch?
Families provide 2 snacks and a lunch for their child.
How do you support my child’s kindergarten readiness?
We see readiness as academics but also it’s about building confidence, independence, and a love of learning that lasts.
Reading & Writing
We use the Read, Build, Write approach alongside the materials from the Waseca Reading Program (link here). As children progress, they practice reading, spelling, and writing together as integrated skills. We document day-to-day progress through Brightwheel so families can reinforce concepts at home, and we share biweekly updates with specific notes about both academic growth and social-emotional learning. Most of our children complete at least 75% of the Waseca sequence before they leave, depending on when they start and how much at-home connection takes place.
Math
Children are introduced to concrete materials that support counting to 100 and beyond. For those eager for more, we offer opportunities in addition, subtraction, and sequencing up to 10,000 through Montessori’s “bird’s-eye view” approach - giving them a strong number sense and logical foundation.
Social–Emotional Development
Equally important is resilience, problem-solving, and relationship-building. We normalize “trying and failing” as part of every learning journey and use positive strategies to help children build confidence. Our daily outdoor time also strengthens social-emotional connections, as children navigate friendships, teamwork, and imaginative play in a natural setting.
Practical Life & Independence
Practical life skills - a Montessori hallmark - give children the independence they’ll need in larger classroom settings. Learning to manage their belongings, prepare snacks, and contribute to the classroom builds confidence and responsibility, which translates directly into readiness for kindergarten.
Physical Growth
Outdoor exploration further supports gross motor development, balance, and stamina — all vital for school success.
We also align with Washington State’s kindergarten readiness checklist, and we can confidently say your child will meet these baseline requirements. More importantly, our focus is on ensuring children leave with curiosity and a love of learning. Some may excel in reading, others in math or practical skills, but all are encouraged to follow their interests while being gently invited into new areas of exploration.