Play-Based Learning
Our classrooms are filled with materials that connect children to nature, promote creativity, require problem solving, and help them create and test theories about their world.
Terwillegar · Edmonton
Childhood only happens once. Let’s enjoy it, not rush it.
Creating meaningful experiences that empower children to discover life-long tools for reaching their potential.
Ages 12 months – 5 years
Voted Best in Edmonton
Near Terwillegar Rec Centre
Best in Edmonton
Recognized among the city’s best learning centres
20+ years of experience
Founded on two decades of early childhood leadership
Nature-inspired rooms
Materials that connect children to the natural world
Three cozy programs
Infant, toddler, and preschool — ages 1 to 5
Our Philosophy
We aim to guide children using a holistic approach — experiences that are intentional, developmentally appropriate, and meet the unique needs of each child.
We value the importance of early childhood by creating an environment that is up-to-date on best practice and encourages learning through play.
How We Nurture
Three promises behind every day
Holistic Approach
Our day begins with breathing, yoga, and connecting as a group. Children learn to listen to their bodies and to identify and express their emotions.
Healthy Habits
Vitality is nurtured through weekly Discovery Movement, daily outdoor experiences (weather permitting), nutritious food, a safe and clean environment, and minimal sedentary behavior.
The Daily Rhythm
A day at the Nest
Classroom programs are created weekly from observations of the children — here is the rhythm that carries every day.
Morning circle
Breathing, yoga, and connecting as a group
Discovery Movement
Weekly physical play that builds fundamental skills
Outdoor time
Fresh-air exploration every day, weather permitting
Nutritious food
Meals that fuel growing bodies and minds
Emergent learning
Programs personalized to each child’s curiosity
Our Programs
The right nest for every age
Full-time care in three thoughtfully designed rooms, each shaped around a stage of early childhood.
12–18 months
Infant Room
Gentle, intentional interactions that give infants the comfort, support, and security to confidently discover their world.
Visit the Infant Room
18–36 months
Toddler Room
A safe place for busy bodies — child-led exploration, expanded by educators through observation and personalised programming.
Visit the Toddler Room
3–5 years
Preschool Room
A classroom that reflects children’s ideas, supports their curiosity, and values their work — growth in every domain.
Visit the Preschool Room
Our Curriculum
Strong, capable, and resourceful citizens
We believe that children are important citizens in our world. Our classrooms reflect this belief: the materials provided connect children to nature, promote creativity, require problem solving, and help them create and test theories about their world.
Emergent planning: classroom programs are created weekly based on observations of the children and personalized to meet their needs — covering every developmental domain.
Social
Emotional
Physical
Intellectual
Language
Creativity
The People Behind the Nest
Cared for by educators who love this work
Gloria Vargas
OwnerMore than 20 years devoted to early childhood — and to building a Nest full of love, exploration, empathy, and connection.
Scarlet
DirectorEarly Childhood Educator since 2010 and personal fitness trainer, weaving health and meaningful experiences into every day.
Come Say Hello
See the Nest for yourself
The best way to know if Discovery Nest is right for your family is to visit. Book a tour, meet our educators, and watch the discoveries happen.