Ages 3 to 5
✰
Outdoor Preschool
✰
Chico, CA
✰
Ages 3 to 5 ✰ Outdoor Preschool ✰ Chico, CA ✰
Mighty Oak
Nature School
Outdoor Preschool
✰
Ages 3 to 5
✰
Chico, CA
✰
Outdoor Preschool ✰ Ages 3 to 5 ✰ Chico, CA ✰
“Mighty oaks from little acorns grow”
Nature-based learning that honors your child’s rhythm.
A soft, grounded place where little ones can flourish in their own time
… without screens, pressure, or one-size-fits-all routines.
About Mighty Oak
Rooted in Nature, Guided by Wonder
When our daughter joined an outdoor nature program at age three, it changed everything. She bloomed in ways we hadn’t expected—gaining confidence, curiosity, and a deep connection to the land. When that program closed, we knew something similar needed to exist here in Chico… so Mighty Oak was born.
— Daniel Hawk, Owner, Mighty Oak Nature School
Led by Daniel, a parent, guide, and lifelong mentor of young children, Mighty Oak Nature School is a calm and nurturing space for 3- to 5-year-olds to grow at their own pace—100% outdoors in the heart of Bidwell Park. With an intimate group setting and a warm, attentive adult presence, we offer a calm, screen-free rhythm of free play, songs, storytelling, and nature adventures that honor each child’s unique spirit.
We believe children don’t need to be hurried or molded—they need to be seen, trusted, and gently guided. At Mighty Oak, we hold space for that wild and wonderful unfolding.
Why Families Choose Mighty Oak
Deeply Personalized Attention
With small group sizes and a high adult-to-child ratio, each child is known, encouraged, and given space to follow their natural rhythm. This ensures your child gets the care and connection they need to feel safe, confident, and capable in every moment of the day.
Nature-Led Learning, Every Day
Our all-outdoor setting invites curiosity, movement, and joy—without the hum of screens or the confines of a classroom. Children explore, discover, and connect with the natural world, building real-world awareness, resilience, and wonder along the way. We meet rain or shine creating a space of reverence for nature’s myriad expressions.
A Safe Container for Wild & Free Play
We provide light structure and strong emotional safety so kids can chart their own adventures, with steady support always close. This balance of freedom and care helps children develop authentic social skills, emotional grounding, and a deep sense of belonging.
What Families Are Saying
We are so happy to have found Mighty Oak! Our three-year-old son was nervous to join a program but after the first day, he has been excited to go back! I’m grateful that my children get to spend the time outside exploring, and connecting with nature and their friends. Daniel and Amanda are warm kind humans that my kids love!
-Rachel (Oaken's mom)
We love Mighty Oak Nature School! This program has been a game changer for our family and we are so thankful that we found it! We absolutely love the teachers and feel very comfortable with everyone involved. Our daughter loves her school and is always excited to be there! It’s comforting to know that it’s a place where she wants to be. We can’t imagine our lives without Mighty Oak!
- Paul (Ginny's dad)
My daughter loved her teachers and classmates at Mighty Oak, and it was great seeing how much she grew in social interaction, communication, and safety awareness. Watching her discover magic and create memories in the same place I did when I was little is the best!
-Laura (Audrey's mom)
We LOVE Mighty Oak! The program promotes love for nature and play in a natural setting; encourages kid-directed learning; and feels safe and sweet. I notice how attentive Teacher Daniel and Amanda are to the children. I very much appreciate the low student: teacher ratio which if you've ever worked in child care you know the dramatic positive effect that small ratio can provide. All in all, I would recommend to anyone with young children who want to embrace nature based play and learning.
-Maureen (Lilianna's mom)
What We Offer
A nurturing outdoor community where young children thrive through connection and curiosity—fully outdoors, fully present, and always rooted in care. Our program is thoughtfully designed to support early childhood development.
Nature-Based Preschool Program
An all-outdoor experience in Bidwell Park, Monday through Thursday from 9am–1pm. Rain Or Shine! Children spend their mornings exploring meadows, forests, and creeks, with time for circle gatherings, songs, stories, and free play. Each child is encouraged to learn and explore at a pace that’s truly their own.
Flexible Scheduling
Families can choose 2, 3, or 4 days per week based on their needs. We offer a part-time rhythm that leaves space for family life, rest, and spacious transitions—all while creating consistency and belonging for your child.
Gentle Onboarding + One-Month Trial
We know this is a big decision. That’s why we offer a one-month trial period to ensure Mighty Oak is the right fit for your child and for you.
Small Group Sizes + Individualized Care
We keep our program intentionally small, with a high adult-to-child ratio. This allows us to build strong relationships, offer personalized support, and create a true sense of safety and connection within the group.
Inclusive & Supportive Options
We offer need-based discounts and are in the process of accepting homeschool funding. Our goal is to keep this experience accessible for families who align with our values and approach.
More listening, less rushing. With an intentionally small group and calm, caring guides, each child is met where they are—encouraged to explore with confidence.
Childhood is sacred. Let’s protect it.
If you’re seeking something quieter, gentler, and more attuned than traditional preschool, Mighty Oak might be the forest path you've been looking for.
Let’s Begin with a Conversation
We’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re full of questions or simply curious about whether Mighty Oak is the right fit for your child, reaching out is the best first step.
We’ll respond within a day or two—to answer your questions, share more about our rhythm, and help you explore if this feels like a good match for your family.
Fill out the contact form and let’s begin something meaningful, together.
