If you’re a parent in the Reno area looking for a preschool that nurtures your child’s growth through hands-on exploration, connections, and outdoor discovery, Willow & Wonder Early Learning Center may be what you’re looking for.
We recently had the opportunity to take a closer look at what makes Willow & Wonder special—and we are sharing everything you need to know.
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Table of Contents
About Willow & Wonder Early Learning Center
Willow & Wonder Early Learning Center was founded on the belief that young children learn best through meaningful play, exploration, and relationships. Willow & Wonder’s educational approach nurtures all areas of development—social, emotional, physical, and cognitive—while embracing the natural world as an integral part of learning.
Whether it’s through guided nature walks, sensory-rich garden play, or art made with found materials, children at Willow & Wonder grow in confidence, creativity, and compassion. We love that their motto is “Rooted in curiosity & growing in wonder.”
Tuition
Tuition rates vary depending on schedule (part-time or full-time). For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, families are encouraged to contact the preschool directly to discuss options.
What’s included in tuition:
- All learning materials
- Daily snacks
- Outdoor gear storage (rain suits, boots, etc.)
- Enrichment activities such as yoga, music, and nature walks
Hours
Monday – Friday: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM
The center offers flexible full-day care to accommodate working families. Part-time schedules may be available depending on current enrollment capacity.
Location
Willow & Wonder Early Learning Center is located at 1675 Robb Dr, Reno, NV 89523.
What Makes Willow & Wonder Unique?
Nature-Based Curriculum
Unlike traditional preschools that emphasize structured indoor learning with scheduled outdoor breaks, Willow & Wonder weaves the outdoors into everyday experiences. The curriculum uses nature as both a setting and a teaching tool.
From scavenger hunts and sidewalk painting to planting seeds and building with natural materials, outdoor play isn’t a break from learning—it is learning. The curriculum adapts with the seasons, allowing children to experience changes in nature firsthand: crunching leaves in fall, observing snow in winter, planting flowers in spring, and enjoying long sunny days in summer.
Play with a Purpose
Every activity—indoors or out—is thoughtfully designed to encourage growth across developmental domains. Teachers create opportunities for problem-solving, empathy, teamwork, and communication. Whether children are building structures with sticks, experimenting with water, or participating in group storytelling, they are learning through doing.
Dedicated, Experienced Educators
Teachers at Willow & Wonder are more than qualified and they are passionate about early education. Staff members undergo:
- Background checks and fingerprinting
- CPR and First Aid certification
- Ongoing professional development
- Training in classroom management and curriculum planning
What Does a Typical Day Look Like?
Each day at Willow & Wonder balances consistency and freedom, structure and creativity:
Morning Yoga & Stretching: Helps children transition into the day with focus and calm.
Learning Centers: Children rotate through areas like art, dramatic play, manipulatives, science, and the library—some of which may take place outdoors depending on the weather.
Circle Time: Includes the theme of the week, letter and number focus, Spanish word of the week, story time, and group discussions.
Outdoor Play: Scheduled twice daily, plus additional time when activities are brought outside.
Music & Movement: Provides a joyful outlet for expression and coordination.
Rest Time (for full-time children): Allows for rejuvenation before the afternoon continues with snacks, more play, and learning exploration.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a place where curiosity and nature is celebrated and a part of the classroom, this might be your perfect fit.
If you are interested in learning more please schedule a tour and see for yourself how Willow & Wonder helps children become confident, compassionate, and curious learners.