Discovering Maya Forest Preschool Manila

Choosing the right preschool for your child is a crucial decision, and Maya Forest Preschool Manila aims to make it easier for parents seeking a unique and enriching experience for their little ones. Located within the compound in Sampaloc, Manila, the 8,000 square meter school space was formerly Escuela Legarda. Maya Forest Preschool takes advantage of its natural forest surroundings, offering a distinctive learning environment for children.

The school boasts outdoor classrooms, a playground, a large tent for events, and a building for indoor activities and toilets. What sets Maya Forest Preschool apart is its forest trail, allowing children to explore native trees and rare plants right on the school grounds.

In an interview with Teacher Cherilyn Melgar, Assistant Directress of Maya Forest Preschool Manila, she shared insights into what makes the school stand out. The school is recognized as the first DepEd forest preschool in Manila, a concept that has been successfully implemented in other countries like Japan and Switzerland.

Nature-based learning

Maya Forest Preschool follows a nature-based, play-oriented educational approach. Teacher Cherilyn emphasized the benefits of this approach, particularly in a digital age where children are increasingly dependent on screens. She highlighted the importance of providing children with outdoor experiences, allowing them to move freely and connect with the natural elements around them.

Unlike traditional preschools, Maya Forest Preschool does not burden children with assignments, homework, or tests. Instead, the focus is on learning through play and hands-on activities. Teacher Cherilyn explained that children learn best when their whole bodies are engaged, emphasizing the school's belief in learning by doing.

Adapting to nature

One unique aspect of Maya Forest Preschool is its commitment to outdoor learning, regardless of weather conditions. Teacher Cherilyn shared that the school teaches children to be prepared for different scenarios. Even when it rains, learning continues, and children are encouraged to embrace the experience by wearing raincoats and boots. This adaptability is seen as a valuable life lesson for the young learners.

Class offerings and parent-teacher communication

The school maintains an open communication channel with parents through in-person updates, daily photo sharing via Viber groups, and regular parent-teacher consultations. Maya Forest Preschool offers classes for three-year-olds (Explorers), four-year-olds (Rangers), and five-year-olds (Kinder). Classes range from two to three hours a day, including free play, storytelling, indoor activities, forest skill learning, and snack time.

Inclusive education and tuition fees

Maya Forest Preschool prides itself on being inclusive, welcoming children with various disabilities. Regarding tuition fees for the upcoming academic year (23-24), the range is approximately P95,000 to P115,000, depending on the payment scheme and the level.

Maya Forest Preschool Manila offers a refreshing and unconventional approach to early childhood education. By combining nature-based learning with a play-oriented curriculum, the school provides a unique environment for children to explore, learn, and grow. If you're a parent seeking a preschool experience that goes beyond the traditional setup, Maya Forest Preschool may be the perfect fit for your child's developmental journey. Visit their Facebook page or Instagram for more information and consider a visit if you're in the Sampaloc area.