Growing Roots announces limited fall enrollment

In an era where the average preschool-aged child in the U.S. spends significantly more time with screens (often up to four to five hours a day compared to the American Academy of Pediatrics’ guideline of one hour or less) and averages only four to seven minutes of unstructured outdoor play per day (Outward Bound, 2020), Growing Roots Preschool in Custer is championing a vital return to nature. Growing Roots Preschool, a fully licensed 501(c)3 early education program in Custer, is making waves with its innovative approach to early childhood development, highlighted by a summer program where 20 students are experiencing a return to a truly traditional, nature-immersed childhood.
This summer children at Growing Roots are rediscovering the magic of outdoor play, spending their days almost entirely immersed in nature, rain or shine. Their expansive outdoor classroom, nestled among towering Ponderosa Pines and natural rock outcroppings, has become a dynamic learning hub. 
Here, children are encouraged to engage in mixed-age, unstructured play, fostering genuine curiosity and a deep connection to the natural world. They are busy finding ladybugs, building forts, lounging in mud puddles and baking mud pies, embarking on nature walks and even enjoying naps and lunch outdoors. This direct engagement with nature naturally develops gross and fine motor skills, social-emotional intelligence, and critical thinking.
“Our outdoor preschool summer program was exactly what our family needed,” said Sonja Tennyson, a Growing Roots parent. “The flexible schedule made it easy to fit into our busy lives, and I loved knowing that every day my son spent there was filled with meaningful time in nature. He came home with stories of adventure, creativity, and teamwork—developing problem-solving skills, empathy and a real sense of responsibility. Most importantly, he looked forward to going every day. It’s been an incredibly enriching experience for him.”
“Fresh air and sunshine are good for the mind and body, and my girls got plenty of both this summer. They loved all the nature exploring,” said Jessica Hartmann, another Growing Roots parent.
Nora Smolnisky, a Growing Roots parent and board president, said “My kids love going to Growing Roots. They are never ready to leave when I come to pick them up, and they are usually covered in mud. I love that they have this chance to learn and grow outside.”
Building on the success and philosophy of its summer program, Growing Roots Preschool is now announcing limited openings for its Fall 2025 program, set to begin Aug. 18. 
The fall program for children ages 2-1/2 to 6 years old (potty-trained) will continue this holistic approach, offering a Montessori-focused indoor classroom in the mornings and enriching outdoor experiences and rest in the afternoons. Growing Roots provides flexible childcare options, including full-time, partial-day and partial-week care, to support the diverse needs of local families.
“Over the past year, I’ve seen so many positive changes in our daughter. The Montessori environment is the perfect fit for her love for the outdoors and learning by doing,” said Jennifer Yousey. “Just the other day she started singing the seven continents song at just 5 years old. She loves to help fold her clothes and the bathroom towels. She has developed habits that most 5-year-olds do not have the opportunity to learn. When we remove the plastic toys and brick walls, we build up their self esteem and confidence for years to come.”
“Growing Roots is the result of parents seeking a different path for early education,” said Smolnisky. “We believe children are naturally curious and intelligent. Our teachers are guides, fostering each child’s innate development in a child-centered environment.”
Families interested in learning more about the Growing Roots Preschool program and securing one of the limited fall openings are encouraged to visit growingrootssd.com or contact the preschool directly at 605-574-1773. 
Early applications are encouraged as spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.