Celebrating our 50th Anniversary!
About Us
Learning through exploration & play.
The natural world is our classroom.
Our programs are designed to engage children in hands-on learning, encouraging curiosity and fostering a love for the environment. From beachside adventures and wildlife observations to creative play and sensory activities, every day at our center is an opportunity for discovery and growth. We believe that by connecting children with nature, we can nurture their development, creativity, and well-being.
Get to know our 'why's.
At the Children’s Education Center, we believe that childhood is a time for wonder, curiosity, and discovery. Our mission is to foster early childhood education through play and the natural world. Nestled in the heart of the sanctuary island of Sanibel, our school offers a unique environment where children can explore, learn, and grow surrounded by the beauty and wonder of the outdoors.
- Nature-Based Learning: Our programs integrate nature into every aspect of learning, from outdoor classrooms to nature walks and wildlife observations.
- Hands-On Exploration: We encourage children to explore their surroundings, engage their senses, and discover the world around them through guided and self-directed activities.
- Playful Education: Play is at the heart of our curriculum. Through playful activities, children develop social skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.
- Outdoor Adventures: Our daily adventures in nature inspire curiosity, resilience, and a sense of wonder. Every day is an exciting journey of discovery.
A day in the life.
8:00am - 9:00am Early Care
Before care begins at 8:00am and goes until 9:00am. During this time, age groups will be mixed and either inside or on the playground. Children will be encouraged to play freely and interact with one another.
9:00 – 1:00pm School Day
During the average school day we have activities like morning circle, small group activities, nature hikes, out door open centers, and more.
1:00 – School Day Pickup
Children are signed out by an approved guardian and picked up from their classrooms. Mailboxes and cubbies are checked, and water bottles are taken home daily to be washed and returned.
1:30 – Rest Time
At the family’s request, children staying for the aftercare program will be offered rest time from 1:30pm to 3:00pm. We provide a resting mat and families provide a crib sized sheet and blanket.
1:00-5:00 – Aftercare
Children who stay beyond the school day ending at 1:00pm will participate in aftercare. During this time, student classes and age groups may be combined. Children will be encouraged to play in carefully curated play spaces or spend more time outside in nature on the playground, outdoor classrooms, or going on hikes. During this time students will enjoy a healthy snack provided by their parents.