In the Pines is a nature-based preschool located in Summit Park, Utah, established in 2019. We are committed to facilitating a healthy environment for children to play and learn through exploration and risk taking. Our play-based approach to learning will help them to build important and lifelong skills, such as: emotional regulation, problem solving, communication, team work, logic, creativity and empathy for others.

In nature, children learn to take risks, overcome fears, make new friends, regulate emotions, and create imaginary worlds.
— Angela J. Handscom

featured in the Park Record


Explore our Programs

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Summer

Fall

School Year


  • Parent testimonials

    “We were fortunate enough to have our son start with the pilot program at In the Pines 5 years ago and we immediately fell in love. In the Pines hits every component of a preschool that we searched for. The ability to be immersed in nature, breathing fresh air, completely away from screens and most importantly, surrounded by teachers that love and care for them. We had 2 sons go through the program and are bummed that after 5 years with Jess and Jackie that are kids have aged out of the program. We watched our boys confidence grow while at In the Pines and can’t say enough amazing things about this program.”

    -Allie Wells

  • Parent Testimonial

    “We can’t recommend In The Pines enough!! Jess and Jackie have been instrumental in the growth and development of our active, adventurous young boy. The program allows the kids freedom to explore the mountains around them and we love to hear about the songs, stories & information they learn during their time In The Pines. Can’t wait to send our 2nd born to them in the spring when he turns 3.”

    -Chris & Sarah Colpitts

  • Parent Testimonials

    “In the Pines Nature School is amazing and has been a great experience for our family. This program has allowed our girls to explore, socialize, adventure, and learn in a natural environment. Jess, Jackie, and Colleen are so kind and spend every day fostering curiosity, encouraging social/emotional connections, and teaching the importance of being stewards of the environment. I think our oldest said it best…“school in the forest is magical!”

    -Anna McTish

  • Parent testimonials

    “From the opening day of this magical nature school I can vividly remember dropping off Layla with the first group of kids and she seemed so little. What transformed for our family over the 5 years of full time attendance was something that we will be forever grateful for. Consistently immersing our children in nature and allowing their creativity to shine set the foundations to who our kids are becoming, it helps them with social emotional regulation, kindness and has taught them to respect the places they play. Jess & Jackie are truly amazng teachers and it is such a gift to have this in our community.”

    -The Driscoll Family

  • Parent testimonials

    Forest school was the best gift I could have given my children. Beyond developing an appreciation for nature, the skills they learn via teamwork with the other students are so important. There really isn't anything much better than watching a three year old proudly march out of the forest covered in dirt, with a roly poly in one hand and a hiking stick in the other. You're the best! Thank you so much.

    -Katie Rothe

  • Parent Testimonials

    “We are grateful for the kind, caring and energetic staff of In the Pines for creating a safe and positive experience for so many children in our community. The teachers share their personal love for the natural world around us while helping our children understand their place in it; they challenge them to be fearless; they show them the peace, beauty and lasting enjoyment to be found in the natural spaces we are so fortunate to have at our fingertips. Our son has thoroughly enjoyed two summers of camp at In the Pines and we are overjoyed to recommend this special place for fun and growth.”

    -Sara Skille