Ignite a love for nature

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Honeybees

Ages 0 - 3 & Caregiver

Fridays, 9:30 -11:30 a.m.

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Welcome to your new community

Wildflowers

Ages 3.5 - 7

Thursdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

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Jr. Homesteaders

Ages 8 - 13

Thursdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

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Summer Camp

Ages 4 - 13

June 9-12 & 16-19

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Our Approach

Our mission is to create an environment that fosters a lifelong love for learning and connection with the natural world for our community of learners ages 0-12 through Montessori-inspired and hands-on learning experiences that the farm and forest richly provide.

Farm Schooling

Farm schooling at Black Ridge Farms offers hands-on experiences in agriculture and the environment. Children engage with regenerative farming through seasonal planting, harvesting, and animal care, deepening their understanding of food systems, sustainability, ecology, and empathy.

Montessori Method

The Montessori method is woven into everything we do at LFNS. Our owner, Callie, a Certified Montessori guide for over a decade, leads a child-led, self-directed approach. Teachers act as guides, observing and supporting as needed while honoring each child’s individuality. Our environment is the curriculum, prepared with Montessori materials in practical life, sensorial development, natural sciences, language, math, and art.

Nature & Forest Exploration

Our five-acre forest provides endless opportunities for exploration and play. Children enjoy unstructured time in nature and, in some seasons, adventures along the Palouse River. They gain skills in survival, plant identification, campfire cooking, foraging (including medicinal uses), and engage in safe, adventurous play.

Mixed-age Learning

Mixed-age groups create a rich learning community where children of different developmental stages collaborate, share knowledge, build empathy, and grow as leaders through meaningful peer interactions.

What Parents are Saying

“My son had a wonderful time at Little Farm Montessori summer camp! He loved getting to spend the week learning about cows, playing outside, and being with friends. As a parent I appreciated the structure of learning but also ample space and time to explore whatever interested him most. Calli and her assistant teachers provide a fun and safe environment for kids to be in nature, and just be kids!"

-Brittany, Summer Camp Parent
“This outdoor preschool is absolutely amazing! My child learned important skills while playing outside in nature. It truly offers the best of both worlds—education and outdoor exploration. If you’re searching for a great preschool, I highly recommend looking into this one!”

- Megan, Wildflowers and Honeybees parent
“This program was a perfect addition to our homeschooling. Callie provided an experience I couldn’t replicate at home—caring for animals, witnessing sheep births, and learning responsibility. My son grew in confidence, expanded his skills, and loved showing us the results of his hard work. As a former educator, I appreciated the emphasis on free play, which was especially great for my high-energy child. By the end of the day, he was exhausted and didn’t want to leave. I highly recommend this program to all parents!”

-Meredith, Wildflowers Parent

Hi, I’m Calli

Calli Stipe, Little Farm Nature School Director & Owner

Hi, I’m Calli Stipe—the Director and owner of Little Farm Nature School, a passionate early childhood educator, certified Montessori guide, and proud mom of three lively boys.

As a Palouse native born and raised on a farm and now a farmer's wife, my roots run deep in this land, and a love for nature has shaped my life. Married to a farmer, I cherish our vibrant life that blends agriculture with preserving childhood through nature-based education and play.

I earned my degree in Early Childhood Development at Lewis-Clark State College in Lewiston, Idaho, where I first discovered the transformative power of Montessori education. Later, I received my Montessori Teaching Certification at Caspari Montessori Institute in Boise, which set me on a path to open my own Montessori preschool, Little Farm Montessori, in our home. There, with a backyard farm, I delighted in watching little ones learn through hands-on experiences with chickens, a thriving flower and herb garden, and everyday nature.

In 2023, Black Ridge Farms allowed us the opportunity to use their farm– transforming my vision into reality by opening Little Farm Nature School. Here, children ages 0-12 immerse themselves in an environment where Montessori principles, farm-based learning, and forest adventures spark curiosity, build confidence, and foster a deep connection with the natural world.

I’m honored to support parents and help every child discover the joy of learning in nature’s embrace.