The Treehouse: a Forest Garden School is a forest preschool in Milwaukie that gives young children lots of time outdoors, in nature, and in play-based learning. It appears especially relevant for toddlers and preschool-age children who enjoy movement, hands-on exploration, and spending time outside in different weather.
Children at The Treehouse may spend their days climbing, running, jumping, and exploring uneven outdoor surfaces, along with observing plant life and learning through everyday experiences in the forest garden. That type of setting can be especially helpful for families who want their child to learn in a natural environment rather than a traditional indoor classroom. The school’s approach seems to emphasize connection to nature, practical exploration, and learning through play.
Parents may also appreciate the patient, thoughtful teaching style described by families, especially for children who need time to warm up or who benefit from a slower, more flexible pace. The school appears to support children as individuals, and the outdoor setting gives children room to move, experiment, and participate at their own level. Because the program is nature-based, families should be prepared for outdoor clothing and weather changes.
For families seeking a preschool in Milwaukie that combines outdoor activity, Waldorf-inspired learning, and a community-minded atmosphere, The Treehouse may be a strong option. Parents may want to ask about age ranges, daily routines, and how the school handles outdoor time in different seasons.
When my daughter first started daycare, I was beyond anxious, but after just a few days at the treehouse, she formed bonds with the teachers and now 8 months in she asks when she gets to go to “school” and when we get close the the parking lot she says how excited she is. The teachers are extremely caring and kind and quickly became part of her tribe. I was worried about winters at first, but she started in February all layered up and had so much fun. She also has never been sick, playing outside and wearing gloves keeps her well. They nap inside in temperature controlled rooms and the teachers take time to make sure they have what they need for their naps. During inclement weather, they do projects inside like making bread or painting rocks. They start their day with tea and honey and they sing sweet songs, help with potty learning and keep her day structured enough for her to know what to expect but fluid enough for her to play how she wants. I can’t recommend the treehouse enough!
We are SO lucky to have sent our little one to Treehouse. The teachers met her every day exactly where she was at, they were patient with her, they showed her love and kindness. Their time spent in the forest garden was why we were drawn to this particular school, and the way that they emphasize connection to the natural world. Our child knows so much about the stages of plant life, working with a community to create something, and how to have FUN in any setting, any weather. I recommend this school with the highest regards.
Our toddler has been going here for the past year and it's truly the magnificent, special, outdoor school that we were hoping for him. I remember how hopeful we were that we'd make it off the waiting list and when we received that email, we were simply elated. Our excitement about Treehouse has not waned — in fact, it's increased. The teachers are so thoughtful, intentional, attentive, kind, etc. The culture of the school is wonderful. Our little guy has been thriving at Treehouse and we couldn't recommend this school enough for those seeking what it offers!
We are so happy to have found The Treehouse! When we were first looking for childcare, we loved the philosophies and environment we were introduced to on our tour, and were excited when a space opened up! A few months after enrolling, our son was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. While we already loved that he spent so much time outdoors and learning through play, we never could have imagined how instrumental The Treehouse would be in his growth and development. The ability to run, play, climb, and jump on uneven surfaces allows him to naturally practice the skills he learns at physical and occupational therapy. Each member of the staff is dedicated to seeing the children thrive and it shows daily in their care and compassion. The teachers have wholeheartedly accepted the unique needs of our son and work to give him the tools and support he needs growing every day. We have seen his abilities grow by leaps and bounds--not in small part from his time here! While I believe any child would benefit from the Waldorf-inspired learning, there is truly something to be said about the application for a child with a disability, and the practice is executed so well at The Treehouse. We will be sad when our time ends here, but are looking forward to the next few years until he reaches school-age!
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