Infants
Infant care follows Emmi Pikler's approach: respectful, attentive caregiving that notices and keeps each baby's rhythms.
Explore InfantsNature based preschool in Stowe since 2011.
Rooted in place. Connected by relationships. Inspired by wonder.
THE LITTLE DETAILSAges
infants, toddlers, and preschoolers
HoursDrop off: 8 – 8:30 AM
A room for every age
Children move up room by room as they grow, from infants through our school-age programs.
Toddlers
In the toddler room, one teacher to five children, with movement, sensory play, and supported social moments.
Explore ToddlersPreschool
Preschoolers spend more time outdoors, taking long walking field trips into the community.
Explore Preschoolpreschool mixed age
Rogers
Rogers is preschool mixed age, with more academic skills woven in and a strong emphasis on social and emotional growth.
Explore RogersHow we see children
Since day one, we have been a nature-based school. Getting outside in all types of weather is a critical component to what we believe is good for children, ourselves, and our world. In 2011, Sarah and her husband, Nick, opened Mountain Village School with a commitment to providing high-quality care and education for the children of Vermont.
Infants, toddlers, and preschoolers attend school each day at Thomas Lane. Pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, and after school programs meet at the Annex on Mountain Road. Each room is set up so a child can reach what they need and put it back again. Children move between quieter corners and busier ones, indoors and out.
Families sign up with Procare and use it to keep communication going. Snacks come twice a day; families pack a healthy lunch each day, with no candy or sweets. Our kitchen is at Thomas Lane, and lunch is part of the day's rhythm there.
What a day looks like
Drop off runs from 8 to 8:30 AM. A child walks in, finds their cubby, and settles into free play in the classroom. Teachers are there at the door, ready for the handoff.
Morning holds snack and free choice or a structured activity, indoors and outdoors in all weather. Lunch comes from home, and the afternoon holds rest or quiet time for younger children. Then more play, more movement, more time together.
Pickup runs from 3:30 to 4:30 PM. After school children move into snack, games, and free play in the field until 4:30. On the way home, a parent hears about what happened, in the order the child remembers it.
How we work with families
Families and teachers talk at drop off and pickup, through Procare, and whenever something needs more than a quick word at the door. Questions about your child's day can go to their teacher first. Bring anything that needs a longer conversation, and we will find the time.
New children start with shorter days where that helps, and buildings fill slowly. Teachers stay close during the first weeks, and they check in with you about how drop off and rest are going. Routines at home and at school can be matched where possible.
How to join
01
Get in touch
Call us at (802) 253-3080 or email sarah@mountainvillageschool.com to start the conversation. When you reach out, tell us your child's age and the days you need so we can talk through what might work.
02
Tour the room
You will see the classroom your child would join and meet the teachers who run it. Ask anything: the day's rhythm, the food, the outdoor time, the rest routine.
03
Enroll and settle in
You complete the enrollment forms and plan a first week that suits your child's routine. Teachers will tell you what to bring and how the first days will go.
Good questions to ask first
What are the hours?
Drop off: 8 – 8:30 AM.
What ages do you take?
Children from infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
Can we visit before deciding?
Yes, a tour is how families decide whether a place fits. Children are welcome on tours; they can see the rooms, meet teachers, and get a feel for the day.
What should my child bring on the first day?
A change of clothes in a labelled bag is the usual first-day item. Many families add a comfort item for rest, and label everything: hats, mittens, boots, water bottles. Ask your child's teacher if you are unsure what a particular room needs.
Do you offer part-time or flexible schedules?
Schedules depend on the age group and what is open at the time, so the best thing is to ask. Tell us your child's age and the days you need, and we will tell you what is available.
What if there is no place right now?
Families can ask to be told when a place opens for their child's age. We will not hold a place or promise a date, but we will keep your details and call when something comes up.