The Nature Explore Classroom at
West Valley College Child Development Center Lab School
The West Valley College Child Development Center (WVC CDC) Nature Explore Classroom is a uniquely vibrant learning environment that blends teacher training, outdoor education, and family partnership into one thriving community.
As the Lab School for the West Valley College Child Studies Department, we employ Child Studies students who receive paid, hands on training from Mentor Teachers. This model ensures that future early childhood educators leave with a deep understanding of outdoor learning and carry that knowledge into the broader ECE field. Many of our students also complete the college’s one unit Outdoor Classroom course, and our site has served as an Outdoor Classroom Project (OCP) Demonstration Site since 2013.
Our program is committed to accessibility and equity. The majority of our enrolled children are considered low income and receive tuition assistance through Title 5 funding, Choices for Children, or the WVM District’s free childcare program. This aligns with our mission: to provide an exemplary laboratory for teacher training while demonstrating best practices for child development through a play based, emergent curriculum and outdoor classroom model.
Success for us is measured not only in children’s growth but also in our impact on the community. From 2013–2020, we hosted numerous Outdoor Classroom trainings for local preschools, the Santa Clara County Office of Education, San José State University, and even visiting Anji Play teachers from China. Therapists who partner with us—ABA specialists, speech therapists, and behavioral consultants—consistently note that our outdoor environment supports children’s regulation and engagement more effectively than traditional indoor settings.
Visitors to our classroom first notice its natural beauty and sense of freedom. Children learn through hands on exploration, guided by adults who act as facilitators and co discoverers rather than direct instructors. Curriculum emerges from children’s interests, supported by mature oak, olive, and fruit trees; two mud kitchens; a large sand area; climbing trees; a tire swing; and ever changing STEM learning centers. Our STEM Lab, continues to evolve and serves as a demonstration space for college practicum students.
Our success is made possible through strong community partnerships. The College District provides ongoing facilities support, while Park Management students assist with gardening and maintenance. Families play an essential role as well, contributing cultural experiences, attending events, and participating in conferences, workshops, and advisory committees. Annual traditions—including our campus Halloween parade, Winter Potluck, Spring Ice Cream Social and K/TK graduation, and Summer Family Fun Day—strengthen our sense of community.
