Relationship-Focused Practice

​We understand that a child’s relationship with the Earth is deeply personal and begins with care. Our educators foster strong relationships not only between children and adults, but also between children and the land. Children are taught to treat all living things with respect and kindness. They learn to observe without disturbing, to handle plants and animals gently, and to give thanks for what nature provides. These everyday actions of mindfulness and gratitude reinforce the idea that the Earth is not a backdrop—it is a living, breathing companion. Through rituals, storytelling, and shared experiences, we nurture a culture of empathy and connection that forms the emotional root of sustainability.

Ian ---content from an Interactives/Connections training to include here?

Community Partnerships

​Our commitment to sustainability is strengthened through meaningful partnerships that bring learning to life. This season, we hosted a Recycled Art Show, where children created masterpieces from reused materials—and our amazing community partners made it even more impactful. Waste Free Dayton, the City of Dayton Sustainability Hub, Montgomery County, Five Rivers MetroParks, and the Hanley Sustainability Institute joined us to share resources, spark conversations, and lead hands-on activities with children and families.

Our friends at Five Rivers MetroParks also visited classrooms to lead a special presentation on animals and their homes, teaching children how to be caretakers of natural habitats. Meanwhile, Hanley student leaders introduced our young learners to composting—kicking off our new center-wide composting initiative! These meaningful connections show children that sustainability is a shared community effort, and that even the smallest hands can make a big impact.

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Community Event: Recycled Art Show

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Five Rivers MetroPark: Exploring Animals

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Hanley Sustainable Institute: Learning about Composting