What to Expect at Auchlone
Everything you need to know about daily life at Scotland’s leading outdoor nursery
Choosing an outdoor nursery is a big step — and we want you to feel confident, informed, and excited about the journey ahead.
Auchlone is open all year round, in all weathers. Our children spend their days outdoors every season, experiencing nature as it changes — from frost-covered mornings to sunlit afternoons, puddles to falling leaves. The setting changes with the weather, and so does the learning.
Here’s what to expect when your child joins Auchlone Nature Kindergarten.
A Typical Day at Auchlone
No two days are the same, but there’s a familiar rhythm to our day.
Here’s a general outline of what a day might look like:
- Arrival & Welcome
Children are welcomed as they arrive and encouraged to play straight away. - Morning Exploration
Children are encouraged to explore the resources presented by the practitioners. Practitioners observe and respond throughout the day listening and working with children to help them realise their plans. - Group Time
We gather together as a whole group and also in small groups to delve deeper into what discoveries have been made or questions they want to find answers to. These small groups are with a key person who ensures that your child has enough support and challenge. - Snack
We need food to give us the energy to be so active. So we do have food and rest on a regular basis. - Lunch
At the moment families have chosen to provide a packed lunch that we eat together in the Kinderkitchen or outside around the gathering circle. - Afternoon Exploration
Our younger children rest and the older children head out on a walk to a new area to explore. - Home Time
Children leave happy, muddy, and tired
Note: Specific routines may vary based on your child’s hours, age, or needs. We’ll work closely with you to make the transition smooth.
What will my child need to bring?
As we spend every day throughout the year and the Scottish weather can throw anything at us, everyone must come prepared.
To help you prepare we can provide you with a full kit-list:
Here’s the basics:
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Warm layers of thermals (leggings and tops)
- Warm thermal socks
- Wellies or outdoor boots
- Hat, gloves, scarf
- Spare clothes
- A sun hat and cream for the summer days
Please make sure that all items are marked with your child’s name.
You don’t need to provide expensive gear, just the right pieces to keep your child safe and warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you go outside in all weather?
Yes — unless there’s a safety concern, we’re outside every day. Our team is trained to adapt to conditions and ensure children are warm, safe, and engaged. Children enjoy the opportunities and often thrive in all weathers as long as their bodies are warm.
What if my child isn’t used to being outdoors?
That’s okay. We support each child to build confidence gradually. With time, children grow to love the freedom and fun of outdoor learning — and often don’t want to come inside again!
Is there shelter?
Yes. Although we spend the majority of our time outside we have a number of both permanent and temporary buildings on site, as well as an outdoor classroom and woodland shelter, and a warming hut.
What about toileting?
The toilets are available at the cottage and cabin. When there are longer days up in the forest we have portable toilets and handwashing facilities. We do ask that toilet training starts in the warmer months so that the large outdoor suits don't have to be washed daily.
What do you eat?
Children currently choose to bring packed lunches but this will be changing soon to offer soup, fruit and sandwiches. We provide healthy snacks throughout the day. Occasionally we prepare food together around the fire.
Enquire Now
If Auchlone sounds like the right place for your child, we’d love to talk to you.