Admissions and Programs at OFS Bayview
The Bayview Nature/Wildlife Preschool offers a unique approach to early childhood education by immersing children in the natural world. This setting fosters a deep appreciation for nature and wildlife, igniting a lifelong passion for environmental stewardship and world conservation.
At Bayview, children explore and interact with their natural surroundings through hands-on activities and experiential learning. This approach enhances their cognitive and physical development while instilling a sense of curiosity and wonder about the natural world. By observing plants, animals, and ecosystems firsthand, children understand the interconnectedness of life and the importance of preservation.
Bayview integrates nature into all aspects of learning. Subjects like science, mathematics, art, and storytelling are enriched with lessons from the natural world. For example, children learn about plant growth by planting seeds or explore basic math concepts by counting leaves. This interdisciplinary approach makes nature an integral part of education.
Bayview emphasizes fostering a conservation mindset from a young age. Through projects and activities, children learn the importance of protecting wildlife and preserving habitats. Activities like recycling, composting, and participating in local clean-ups teach sustainability and environmental responsibility, helping children understand their impact on the world and empowering them to make positive changes.
Developing empathy and respect for all living creatures is crucial at Bayview. Caring for classroom pets, observing wildlife, and engaging in outdoor play teach children to appreciate the beauty and value of every life form. This empathy extends globally, fostering a shared responsibility for protecting the planet.
Incorporating technology, Bayview enhances its curriculum with wildlife live streaming and night cameras in the wildlife playground. These tools allow children to observe animals in their natural habitats, offering insights into nocturnal behaviors. Educational apps feature interactive games and virtual field trips, making learning about ecosystems, animal behaviors, and conservation efforts engaging.
In summary, Bayview Nature/Wildlife Preschool plays a crucial role in intriguing children and promoting world conservation. By immersing children in the natural world and integrating environmental education, Bayview instills a deep appreciation for nature and a lifelong commitment to protecting it, fostering well-rounded, globally-minded individuals ready to meet future challenges and opportunities.
Applications are given to families who attend a parent-only Open House (in January and February) or a tour. Tours are offered throughout the Winter and Spring. Spaces are normally offered in March (for Fall enrollment), or on a rolling basis should a space open up mid-year. The application fee is $55.
Children may attend 2, 3, 4, or 5 days a week. Full-time and part-time schedules are available.
Priority is given to families needing full-day care.
Call (415) 688-1764 or email us for more information.
The 2's Room
Autonomy and verbal skills are the core values of our two year old program. Two-year-olds are excited and curious about their world, and we help foster that need to explore in this classroom while giving them secure relationships. There are 12 children and two teachers in the classroom with a ratio of 1:6.
We offer both half-day and full-day programs in our 2’s classrooms. Half-day spaces are limited. Priority is given to families needing full-day care.
The Preschool Program
At Old Firehouse School we believe that initiative, language, and thinking skills predict much about each child’s future academic and social development. We have a ratio of 1:9 in our preschool classrooms.
