Bitterroot Early Learning Network

Evergreen Kids Corner Preschool, part of BELN, offers a nature-based, play-centered curriculum for children aged 3 to 5. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, outdoor exploration, and the development of academic, social, and emotional skills. Guided by Montana Early Learning Standards, the curriculum nurtures children’s curiosity and love for nature while maintaining a low teacher-to-child ratio to ensure personalized care and attention. The goal is to foster environmental stewardship and prepare children for future success.

BELN's Infant & Toddler Care program offers a nurturing, play-based environment for children from birth to age three. Focused on personalized learning and family engagement, the program promotes early development through nature immersion and hands-on activities. With low teacher-to-child ratios, it aims to support each child's holistic growth, preparing them for future learning. This care program reflects BELN’s commitment to quality early childhood education.

Our program in the Bitterroot Valley offers engaging activities that develop life skills like self-confidence, teamwork, and decision-making, while promoting physical fitness and environmental awareness. By emphasizing place-based learning, we incorporate the valley's natural beauty into our curriculum, strengthening community connections. We also collaborate with local partners for field trips that enhance practical learning experiences. Children are grouped by age (0-3 and 3-5 and 6-8) to ensure activities are fun and developmentally suitable during the summer months.

BELN offers family workshops aimed at reconnecting with nature and strengthening family bonds through shared experiences. These workshops promote personal growth, skill development, and emotional intelligence in children. Participants can choose workshops based on their child's age and interests, with options like Wilderness Bonding and Social Emotional Workshops. The activities are designed to help families unplug from technology and enjoy meaningful time together outdoors.

Wild Beginnings emphasizes nurturing the whole child through social-emotional learning (SEL) practices like Conscious Discipline and the Zones of Regulation to help children manage emotions. Wild Beginnings offers resources for outdoor activities, fun home projects, and workshops for parents and caregivers, fostering community support. Families can schedule one-on-one sessions with BELN professionals to create personalized plans to help families create personalized plans for their children's development.