Back in February of 2021, we were approached by an extraordinary team of early childhood educators - Natalie, Emily, John, and Sebastian - looking for a special site to launch their new outdoor preschool for Whatcom County. We knew right away this was an amazing opportunity that would bring synergy and joy to our farm and many local families. Over the past year, we have been so deeply impressed by the team's dedication and hard work in establishing their program, caring for our land, and providing such a thoughtful and caring environment for kids! 

The team worked nonstop throughout Summer 2021 to design, restore, and build out their site, located on the high forested ground in the southeast corner of East of Eden property. A beautiful timber frame pavilion was constructed to provide shelter and a serene gathering space. Carefully crafted spaces for learning and play were set up underneath the towering firs and cedars around the pavilion: a huge sandbox, the forest library, the eagles nest for quietude, balance beam and see-saws, a small garden for native plants, and much more. There are now wondering paths connecting farm and forest, and every day at Lichen Early Learning is also journey of ecological learning around the farm.

Lichen Early Learning opened at East of Eden Farm in September 2021 to rave reviews and full enrollment. We have been so grateful seeing all the happy families and kiddos that come and go each day. Natalie, Emily, Sebastian and John have become integral members of the farm community and this is only the very beginning. We can't wait to see how this partnership grows over the next year and to welcome more local families to the farm and forest. If you have kiddos ages 3-5, definitely get on their wait list today! And if you don't, feel free to spread the word about NATURE and FARM-based education in Whatcom County!  

                                            www.lichenearlylearning.org