New Childcare Facility ‘Little Forest School’ Offers Hands-On Learning in the Heart of Nature

November 25, 2024

On October 18th, parents in the Manitowish Waters area received devastating news: the only childcare center within 30 miles was closing its doors—for good. This unexpected closure left working families without any reliable options, creating immediate challenges and long-term concerns.

Without accessible childcare, families struggle, businesses face hiring challenges, and ultimately it has the greatest impact on the children’s development.

In response, a dedicated group of community members came together to ensure families and children have the resources they need.

Introducing Little Forest School: A New Chapter for Childcare in Manitowish Waters

Little Forest School is a new childcare center created to meet the needs of local families. It’s more than a childcare program—it’s a place where kids can explore, learn, and grow in a space designed just for them.

The mission is to provide safe, quality, and affordable childcare for the families in our community, fostering growth through play-based learning and nature exploration. By combining fun, learning, and the outdoors, Little Forest School helps children build a deeper bond with nature.

Believing that strong children come from strong communities, Little Forest School works closely with families and local organizations to support kids both inside and outside the classroom. With hands-on activities and plenty of room for curiosity, nature is at the heart of every day.

The organization is committed to making childcare accessible and welcoming for every family. With nurturing educators who receive ongoing training and collaborative growth, children feel supported and ready to develop in a positive environment.

“I am, and always will be, very passionate about the early childhood industry,” said Amanda Snow, Board Member of Little Forest School. “I wish for other families to have the opportunity to have access to quality care in our area.”

Little Forest School aims to be a key part of the Manitowish Waters community—a place where children are encouraged, families are supported, and the Northwoods community thrives.

Meeting Immediate Needs and Building for the Future

Little Forest School is tackling the childcare challenge head-on with a two-phase plan designed to meet the immediate needs of families while laying the groundwork for a long term solution.

Phase 1: Addressing Immediate Needs

The first phase focuses on ensuring families have reliable childcare over the next 1–2 years. Significant progress has already been made, including:

  • Formed a childcare committee of 30 dedicated parents, educators, and community members.
  • Established a passionate board of directors to guide the effort.
  • Partnered with the Manitowish Waters Presbyterian Community Church for a temporary location.

Now, the team is moving forward with key next steps:

  • Achieve 501(c)3 nonprofit status to focus resources on families.
  • Secure a childcare license to meet safety and quality standards.
  • Prepare the temporary facility to welcome children.
  • Fundraise to cover startup costs and operational needs.
  • Recruit skilled, passionate staff to lead the program.
  • Open Little Forest School to families in early 2025.

Phase 2: Building a Sustainable Future

While Phase 1 addresses urgent needs, Phase 2 looks ahead to create a sustainable program that will serve families for decades. The long-term goals include:

  • Secure land for a permanent, centrally located facility.
  • Design and construct a space tailored to the unique needs of an adaptive and nature-based childcare environment.
  • Collaborate with local organizations, schools, and businesses to provide expanded programming and resources.
  • Establish a perpetual operational fund to ensure childcare remains affordable and accessible for all families.
  • Strengthen the educational model to deepen connections with nature and build a shared future.

Little Forest School is a testament to what happens when a community comes together. The team invites community members, businesses, and organizations to join them in creating this future for children and families.

To learn more about Little Forest School or how to get involved, visit www.littleforestschool.net, email [email protected].

Press Contact:
Mike McKeon, Little Forest School Board Chair
[email protected]
847-732-7460