Natural Choice Academy

About Natural Choice Academy in Phoenix, AZ

Founded in 2011, Natural Choice Academy is a unique early childhood education center dedicated to providing a holistic, all-natural learning experience for children ages 1 through 5. Our philosophy is centered on nurturing the mind, body, and spirit of each child through a carefully crafted environment that blends organic nutrition, eco-conscious design, social-emotional development, and emergent, play-based curriculum. We serve families seeking a preschool experience that prioritizes health, environmental sustainability, and child-led learning.

Virtual Tour Of Our School

• Curious about our campus? Click here for a drone tour! 

Reggio Emilia–Inspired Learning

Natural Choice Academy follows a Reggio Emilia–inspired approach that honors children as capable, curious learners. Learning is guided by children’s interests, with teachers thoughtfully designing experiences that encourage exploration, creativity, and collaboration.

Our classrooms act as the “third teacher,” featuring natural materials, open-ended learning spaces, and opportunities for children to express their ideas through art, movement, conversation, and play. Teachers serve as guides and co-learners, supporting critical thinking, confidence, and meaningful learning at each child’s pace.

Programs Offered

Our program is designed to meet the developmental needs of toddlers through pre-kindergarten students in a warm, respectful, and enriching setting. Each classroom is tailored by age and follows a school-year advancement model, allowing children to remain with the same group and teacher for the full academic year, building strong emotional and social connections.

• Toddlers (Approx. 1–2 years)
  In our toddler classrooms, we focus on creating a safe and nurturing environment that supports early independence, motor development, and language acquisition. Activities are centered around sensory play, social interaction, and gentle routines that establish a sense of security and consistency.
• Young Preschool (Approx. 2–3 years)
  Young preschoolers are introduced to more structured routines while still learning primarily through open-ended play. Teachers guide exploration through thematic learning, hands-on materials, and outdoor experiences, helping children build confidence and foundational skills in language, math, and science.
• Preschool (Approx. 3–4 years)
  The preschool program deepens focus on early academic concepts through emergent curriculum themes inspired by student interests. Teachers integrate learning goals into play-based activities, encouraging experimentation, storytelling, art, problem-solving, and cooperative learning.
• Pre-Kindergarten (Approx. 4–5 years)
  Our pre-kindergarten classrooms support kindergarten readiness by balancing structured activities with exploratory learning. Literacy, math, science, and critical thinking are taught through real-world application and inquiry-based projects. Students develop emotional intelligence, leadership skills, and a strong sense of self.

Philosophy

Natural Choice Academy believes in honoring childhood by encouraging imagination, creativity, and wonder. We do not follow a rigid academic model but instead implement an emergent curriculum, allowing learning to be guided by the children’s interests. Our classrooms are filled with natural materials, loose parts, and open-ended provocations that inspire curiosity and problem-solving.

We embrace the whole-child approach, supporting emotional, social, physical, and cognitive development equally. Teachers act as facilitators, offering intentional support and documentation of each child’s growth.

Nutrition and Wellness

We are proud to serve 100% certified organic meals and snacks, prepared fresh daily in our fully equipped commercial kitchen. Our menus rotate seasonally and include a wide variety of whole fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and high-quality proteins. Meals are served family-style to encourage social interaction, self-help skills, and a positive relationship with food.

We accommodate common dietary restrictions and prioritize healthy eating habits by avoiding processed foods, artificial additives, and excessive sugars. Children are introduced to gardening through participation in our outdoor gardens, helping them understand where their food comes from and how to care for the earth.

Eco-Conscious Environment

Our facility was intentionally designed to promote health and sustainability. We use:

• Non-toxic, low-emission wooden furniture certified for indoor air quality
• Filtered air and water systems in every classroom
• Chemical-free sanitizers and cleaning agents
• HEPA air purification and frequent handwashing routines

Outdoor learning is a vital part of our daily routine. Children spend significant time in our large, natural playgrounds, which include climbing structures, sensory areas, shaded quiet zones, a working garden, and a chicken coop. These outdoor spaces promote gross motor development, collaboration, and connection to the natural world.

Social-Emotional Learning

We place a major emphasis on emotional well-being and respectful relationships. Our staff are trained in Conscious Discipline®, a trauma-informed, evidence-based approach that integrates social-emotional learning, discipline, and self-regulation. This model helps children:

• Identify and name emotions
• Practice empathy and compassion
• Solve conflicts with adult guidance
• Develop positive relationships with peers and adults

Rather than punitive discipline, our teachers model calm behavior, validate emotions, and teach peaceful problem-solving. Classrooms include social stories, visual routines, peace corners, and opportunities for community-building.

Family Engagement

We believe strong home-school connections are essential. Parents are regularly invited to participate in school life through:

• Family events and celebrations
• Volunteer opportunities
• Regular communication throughout the school year
• Conferences and developmental milestone updates

We also offer parent education resources, including workshops, Conscious Discipline® guidance, and nutritional support.

Visit Us Today

We invite you to experience the Natural Choice Academy difference firsthand. A visit to our school allows you to explore our thoughtfully designed classrooms, meet our dedicated and passionate educators, and see how we create a safe, enriching, and inspiring environment for young children.

Schedule a tour today to learn how our approach to whole-child development—through nature, nutrition, play, and love—can support your family’s goals for early education.