A Place Where Childhood is Treasured
The Dewey School is a nature-based, Reggio Emilia inspired preschool where children are trusted as capable, curious learners.
The Dewey School was born from a belief that childhood deserves time, space, and freedom to unfold.
Nestled within the natural beauty of Canterbury Shaker Village, Dewey was created as a place where children could experience the wonder of the world around them. Where muddy boots, curious questions, creative expression, and meaningful relationships are at the center of learning.
Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, Dewey views children as capable, curious, and full of ideas. We believe children are active participants in their own learning, and that their voices, interests, and discoveries should guide the journey. Our classrooms are not defined by worksheets or predetermined outcomes, but by exploration, collaboration, and the endless possibilities found in play.
What began as a vision for a different kind of early childhood experience has grown into a vibrant community of children, families, and educators who believe in learning through connection, curiosity, and belonging.
Dewey continues to grow while staying rooted in its original purpose: creating a place where children are known, valued, and inspired to wonder.
A place where childhood is honored.
A place where curiosity leads.
A place where children belong.
Our Mission & Values
Respect, Play and Community
The driving values of Respect, Play and Community are not unique to the Dewey School, but our distinctive perspective and approach is.
Respect
Children are capable individuals who thrive when treated with respect and encouragement. By recognizing their potential to face challenges and master new skills, we foster an where they can grow and succeed. Let's celebrate accomplishments and support their journey towards confidence and competence. Together we can cultivate a brighter future for our children.
Play
Play embodies freedom, allowing individuals to explore their interests while enhancing problem-solving skills and learning. It invites joy in discovering the natural world encouraging the ability to take physical risks and understand personal limits. Embracing play fosters growth and resilience, creating a space where learning thrives through exploration and experience.
Community
At Dewey, we believe that every child deserves a supportive community where learning thrives. Our spaces fosters respect and collaboration, equipping our children with essential skills in negotiation and conflict resolution. Together, parents and teachers create a strong network that connects and empowers our children, ensuring they have the village they need to grow and succeed. Join us in building a nurturing environment for all!
How Children Learn at Dewey
At Dewey, children are active participants in their own learning. Through child-led exploration, play, and hands-on experiences, children’s ideas and interests guide our emergent curriculum.
Our teachers serve as observers and guides, carefully listening, noticing, and creating opportunities that support each child’s growth. Through documentation of learning, we make children’s thinking, discoveries, and creative processes visible.
At Dewey, learning grows from curiosity, connection, and the joy of discovery.
Our Place: A Classroom Without Walls
Surrounded by 700 acres of natural beauty, Dewey children explore, investigate, and learn through meaningful experiences in the outdoors.