The Unter den Blättern forest kindergarten sees itself as a place where children learn, grow, and experience community in and with nature. Our mission statement describes the values and attitudes that shape our educational work and provide guidance for children, families, and professionals.

Nature as a place of learning and living

The forest is our daily place of learning. Children experience nature in all seasons, with all their senses and in all its diversity. They learn that we are part of nature and bear responsibility for our living space. Nature opens up original, immediate, and holistic learning opportunities for them.

Our image of the child

We regard every child as competent, curious, and independent. Children bring their own individual strengths, interests, and experiences with them. Our task is to create a safe environment in which they can develop, try things out, and grow at their own pace.

Participation and children's rights

Children are active shapers of their own lives. They have the right to be heard, to complain, and to participate in decisions that affect their everyday lives. We treat them with respect, appreciation, and openness. Participation is not an additional task, but an integral part of our daily interactions.

Learning together

Community is very important to us. Children develop important social skills through free play, projects, and everyday situations together.

 Children experience nature in all seasons, with all their senses and in all its diversity. They learn that we are part of nature and bear responsibility for our habitat. Nature offers them authentic, immediate, and holistic learning opportunities.

Our image of children

Consideration, compassion, tolerance, and a sense of responsibility. They learn that they are part of a group and that their contribution to the community is important.

Education in the forest

Our work is based on the Baden-Württemberg orientation plan. All areas of education and development—from movement and language to aesthetic education and media education—are naturally interwoven in the forest. The natural environment creates special spaces for exploration, creativity, and holistic learning.

Protection, safety, and security

Secure structures and reliable rituals provide children with guidance. Child protection, health care, and mindfulness are the cornerstones of our educational approach. We are guided by the guidelines of the KVJS, the legal basis of the protection mandate (§ 8a SGB VIII) and the requirements of the municipality. Parents are important partners in the responsibility for the well-being of their children.

Cooperation and further development

We work in partnership with families, schools, associations, specialist services, and the community. Through regular reflection, further training, and team development, we continuously develop our educational work. Our mission statement is a living document that is based on scientific findings and practical experience.