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When can my child start?​

You can join the waitlist anytime, even if your child is a few months old! Our waitlist helps us consider the best candidates for our program, but keep in mind we prioritize Baltimore City families and other factors. You will be contacted if you are in consideration. 

NOTE: We are full for the 2026-2027 school year. Spots may open during the school year if there are changes in enrollment. 

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Will my child be outdoors daily?​

Yes, your child will navigate the forest in all types of weather. It is absolutely necessary that children have appropriate outdoor gear to keep them healthy and comfortable. 

Indoor spaces are available for short breaks throughout the day, bathrooms, and nap times. We bring children inside during inclement weather. ​

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Does my child need to be potty-trained?​

Full-Day: No. Since it is a mixed age class, typically the older kids will split off from the younger kids. Children would not be eligible to move up into the older group until they are 4-5 and potty trained. 

Half-Day: Yes. Though there will be frequent potty breaks throughout the day, this program is nearly 100% outdoors and the group will likely on trails without access to toilets.

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Do you offer tours?​

We offer tours to families who are being offered a spot in the preschool. Unfortunately, we cannot offer tours outside of prospective families. 

Our campus is free and open to the public Sunday-Saturday, 8:30am-4:30pm. We encourage you to visit and take part in our community programs!

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Do you close for inclement weather? â€‹

Sometimes. We loosely follow Baltimore City Public Schools and must follow BCRP’s closure guidelines. The most problematic weather is the snow and rare windstorms! When there are thunderstorms close to the area, we move indoors. With proper gear, we are ready to tackle most weather! 

In the summer months, heat advisories are actively on our radar, and we ensure that our preschoolers are resting, hydrating, and cooling down in the heat of the season. 

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Can I volunteer?​

Yes! Our volunteers help clean, sanitize, and help things run smoothly behind the scenes. Education support volunteers are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and must be discussed with administration. See our Volunteer page for more information. 

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Can't find the answers you're looking for? Contact Lilli Banks, lillian.banks@baltimorecity.gov​

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FOREST PRESCHOOL

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Carrie Murray Nature Center

1901 Ridgetop Road, Baltimore, MD 21207

Nature Center Hours
Open Daily: 8:30am - 4:30pm

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410-396-0808​​

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Carrie Murray Nature Center is operated by Baltimore City Recreation and Parks (BCRP)
 

©2025 by Carrie Murray Nature Center.

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