About Us







Annette De Ville Kanchan Maher

In our outdoor classroom, we create a nature-based program that fosters a deep connection between children and the natural world. By immersing students in hands-on experiences, our goal is to inspire curiosity, wonder, and environmental stewardship from a young age.

Using natural materials, outdoor exploration, and engaging activities, we encourage children to observe, explore, and appreciate the beauty and intricacies of nature. Through this approach, they develop a sense of awe, empathy, and respect for the environment.

We strongly believe in the power of nature to ignite creativity and stimulate holistic development. By incorporating elements of art, science, and sensory experiences, we help children develop a sense of wonder, critical thinking skills, and a strong foundation for future learning.

Collaboration with parents is also crucial to our success. We actively involve families in our nature program, providing resources and suggestions for nature-related activities at home. Together, we create a supportive and nurturing community that encourages the love for nature to flourish both inside and outside the classroom.


Meet the Staff

Hello! My name is Annette De Ville and I have over 25 years of experience in Early Childhood Education as a teacher and director.  The biggest influence on my style of teaching today comes from the preschools and educators in Reggio Emilia, Italy. My work with children focuses on integrating elements of the fundamentals of the Reggio approach and Forest School principles to our learning environment. 

I am dedicated to my professional growth and constantly seek new opportunities to enhance my knowledge and skills in nature-based education. By staying informed about the latest research and best practices, I ensure that my teaching approaches align with the evolving needs of young learners.

Teaching in a nature-focused preschool program brings me immense joy and fulfillment. Guiding children as they discover the wonders of the natural world is a privilege. I look forward to embarking on this journey with your child, fostering their connection to nature and nurturing their love for learning in a meaningful and eco-friendly way.

Konnichiwa!  My name is Kanchan Maher.  It is my 9th year working with preschool children.  Prior to this, I worked with school aged children with learning differences and taught Japanese to Americans and English to Japanese students of all ages.  My biggest mission as an Early childhood educator is to create a safe nurturing environment where children feel LOVED and VALUED.  I believe it is only when children feel love and trust from their educators, they can freely express themselves and explore the world with confidence, away from their families. I am committed to making CNP a place where children can be children, building a foundation of learning for life by following their curiosity in the beautiful natural environment.