We offer four classrooms here at MLP.
Our first class is the: 🌱 Sprouts Classroom (4 months – 12 months)
Our Sprouts classroom offers a calm, nurturing environment designed for our youngest learners. Care is individualized to each child’s unique schedule, including feeding, sleeping, and play. Teachers focus on building strong, secure relationships that foster trust, comfort, and healthy development.
Through sensory play, music, movement, and gentle exploration, infants are encouraged to engage with the world around them at their own pace. We incorporate nature-based experiences whenever possible, providing opportunities for fresh air and outdoor time. Our goal is to support early milestones while creating a warm, responsive space where each child feels safe, loved, and ready to grow.
Our third class is the 🦎 Geckos Classroom (2.5 – 3.5 years)
The Geckos classroom is a dynamic, play-based environment where children deepen their social skills and expand their creativity. Teachers guide learning through child-led experiences that encourage problem-solving, collaboration, and imaginative play.
Children participate in a balance of indoor and outdoor activities, including art, sensory play, nature walks, and group experiences. Emphasis is placed on developing language, cooperation, and self-confidence while learning to navigate friendships and group settings. Our goal is to foster independence and a love of learning in a supportive, engaging environment.
Allie Edens
Founder + Director
Hello Families!
My name is Allie Edens and I am the founder and director of Mountain Laurel Playschool. I went to school at Warren Wilson College and obtained my BA in Outdoor Education and Psychology. I have spent the last 16 years in the field of education in some form or another. I absolutely love working with children. I get a lot of joy from teaching. There is nothing more rewarding than watching children make connections and apply what they are learning to their world. Teaching is all about making positive relationships and the powerful learning that is experienced. I am the mother of four children. I enjoy spending time with my family exploring the outdoors. I also enjoy kayaking, reading and plants. I look forward to growing with your children and their families!
Our second class is the 🦦 Otters Classroom (12 months – 30 months)
Our Otters classroom is a joyful, active environment where toddlers begin to explore their independence and build social connections. Teachers provide consistent routines and gentle guidance to support growing communication, emotional regulation, and peer interaction.
Children are encouraged to develop independence through daily routines such as self-feeding, hand washing, and early potty learning. Play-based experiences, music, movement, and outdoor exploration are central to the day, helping toddlers build confidence and curiosity. Our goal is to create a supportive space where children feel safe to explore, express themselves, and begin navigating relationships with others.
Our fourth classroom is the 🦗 Crickets Classroom (3.5 – 5 years)
Our Crickets classroom prepares children for their next steps by building confidence, independence, and strong social-emotional skills. Through a child-led, play-based approach, teachers support deeper thinking, creativity, and problem-solving.
Children engage in hands-on learning experiences including art, early literacy and math concepts, group projects, and outdoor exploration. There is a strong focus on teamwork, communication, and respect for others. Our goal is to help children develop the skills and confidence needed for a successful transition to kindergarten while continuing to foster a love for learning and connection to the natural world.