Discover what parents are saying about Apex’s newest nature preschool

At NC Nature + Nurture Preschool, we take immense pride in the unique learning journey we offer to our little explorers. But don’t just take our word for it—see what some of our parents have to say! Here’s a glimpse into the heartfelt experiences shared by families who have embraced the beauty of nature-based education:

“We love NC Nature & Nurture. Having sent my children to other more traditional daycares/preschools, this is simply the best for young minds and bodies—physical movement, sunshine, and natural exploration. My son comes home every day happy (and tired!). He never puts up a fight about leaving for school in the mornings which was not the case in previous programs. I wish we had found it sooner.” C.F. Apex, NC

“If you are looking for a nature/ play-based alternative to preschool NC Nature and Nurture is a game changer. Ms. Jess is absolutely fantastic and so passionate about the kiddos that she works with. Since attending NC Nature and Nurture my 3-year-old daughter has grown and learned so much emotionally, motor skills, and her ability to adapt to new sensory experiences. The curriculum that Ms. Jess has created encourages her to be curious about all things and grounded in nature. (BONUS: she hasn’t been sick since she started since they are playing outside!) She comes home every day full of stories of fun and looking forward to going back. Ms. Jess and Ms. Analee have created an amazing community and safe space for my daughter to gain confidence and learn. I could not recommend NC Nature and Nurture more!” J.W. Angier, NC

“My 3 yo joined in November 2024 and it has been fantastic for us. At first, we were skeptical as I am not an active outdoor person. When we went to visit the school, we were very impressed with how Jess made our LO feel comfortable exploring her surroundings. For a week after all we heard from our LO was “I want to go to new school and play!”. She LOVES Miss Jess and is learning so much about being outdoors, observing nature, and having fun. Jess, the owner, is amazing at what she is doing for the school/kids. My LO had been in day care since 15 mo of age and had always been down with cold-fever-ear infections….Currently she has not had an active infection thanks to all the outdoor fresh air she gets. This is a HUGE plus for me”. – G.A. Apex, NC

“My 3 year old son started in the spring of 2024 and has done camp in the summer and has had the most amazing experience. Ms. Jess has created an environment where he can explore and use his imagination while learning and growing in nature. I have seen such a positive shift in how he interacts with the world around him and most importantly, he wakes up with a smile to go each morning and comes home with an even bigger smile. I couldn’t be happier with the experience we have had with Nature & Nurture.” S.T. Cary, NC

“NC Nature + Nurture has been such an amazing summer camp experience! Our child has had so much fun learning through play outside. He has even learned how to take care of a garden and is now tending to our tomatoes and basil at home. The teachers are phenomenal and really know how to help the kids feel comfortable in their new setting. They really care and learn about each individual child. We can’t wait to start preschool in the fall!” K.B Apex, NC

“100 million times recommend! Jess and her nature school are magical. My son loves every second he gets to spend at NC Nature and Nurture. Jess has the kindest heart. She teaches my son so much and he has so much fun at the same time. He loves her dearly. Jess sends home pictures and emails and updates often so I was always in the know. My son gets to hike in the woods, make magic potions and playdoh, hunt for critters, and play with his friends. Jess had them adventuring and learning every second of the day. I highly recommend this school to anybody and everybody! Jess is THE BEST. We’re going back for summer camps this year too!” – L.F. Holly Springs, NC

“It’s everything you want for your child that you feel like you might not be able to provide. Time outdoors, exploring and being curious, learning through play and getting messy in nature! The class size is small which is perfect for these little humans, getting their feet wet through being away from home. Jess brings so much joy, wonder, silliness, and life to each day and I can tell that she is entirely in her element and truly enjoys guiding children through nature and play. My son says she is his best friend—what more could you want?!” – L.R. Apex, NC

“My son has gone to summer camps here 2 years in a row now and LOVES it! They have fun activities every day and he asks to go back every time.” E.C. Apex, NC

“My three year old son loved going with with Ms. Jess every day!! He enjoyed carefully crafted activities with the luxury and freedom to safely explore. He experienced a verity of tactile testing and teamwork which matched his developmental ability. He loved the pretend play area and making “potions”. As a parent and former teacher, I loved how he was able to align with nature in such a safe and loving environment.” K.S., New Hill, NC

“My daughter has been in the preschool program since September and she has loved all of her outdoor adventures! The owner, Ms. Jess, is super sweet and great with the kids. She is a mother of 3 and has a degree in psychology. Easily checks off all of the mama wish list boxes! 10 out of 10” – L.G. Pittsboro, NC

“My daughter has so much energy going to preschool every day! She loves to go to school and HATES to leave. This preschool is a truly unique experience – our only complaint is that it isn’t all day!” R.Y. , Apex NC

“My 4 year old daughter absolutely loved it! Ms Jess made every day an adventure full of fun and learning. My daughter would always come home with exciting stories of what happened throughout the day”. S.S., Fuquay Varina, NC

“My 3 yo LOVES it! He comes home discussing frogs, turtles, worms, and squirrels!” C.B. Apex, NC

“NC Nature and Nurture is exactly what I was looking for! My son has been home with us for his first 3 years of life and I was worried about the transition to school and wanted something that aligns with my son’s personality! He loves being outside and this was the perfect spot for him! Ms. Jess and Ms Analee are great with my son! He is shy at first and they have helped him so much to open up! He is now himself at school and I can’t believe the year is already half over! I highly recommend the school especially if looking for something where your kid isn’t stuck inside all day! I can’t recommend it enough! He even has fun on cold or rainy days! They make sure he is safe and still he has fun!” C.S. Apex, NC

“My daughter had the best week at nature camp with Ms Jess! She was so warm, friendly, organized and fun! We will be back :)” F.H., Apex, NC

“We went for a week for summer camp. My daughter really loved it!” J.L., Apex, NC

“My daughter went to camp last summer and absolutely loved it. I know the owner/teacher Jess very well and she is an amazing teacher, amazing with kids, and just a wonderful person. It brought me so much joy to see my daughter come home from her camp each day with such happiness and excitement over the day. Definitely a must do!” A.L. Apex, NC

“My grandchildren (ages 3&2) loved every second of nature camp this summer and cried when they had to leave! I love that Jessica sends an email with pictures—gave us a lot to talk about over dinner! Great activities, took precautions with heat advisories and rain, great communication. Highly recommend!” G.T., Fuquay Varina, NC