A Vision for The Wilds

The Wilds is named to reflect the joyful, untamed spirit that emerges when we are fully ourselves- authentic and connected.

We aspire to be more than a preschool; a place where children and families feel deeply rooted, and where early education is elevated through meaningful connection, intentionality, and joy.

At The Wilds, everything begins with connection.

We know children learn best when they are truly interested; when learning feels relevant, playful, and rooted in their lived experience. And yet, so often, classrooms overlook this simple truth.

That’s why we do things differently.

In our spaces, play has purpose. Classrooms are thoughtfully designed, and teachers are more than guides- they are co-learners, observers, and relationship-builders. They invest in getting to know each child while designing experiences that nurture curiosity and stretch growing minds; we turn everyday play into meaningful learning.

Whether through hands-on exploration, rich conversations, or moments of quiet observation, our educators meet children exactly where they are with intention and heart. In all circumstances, we lead with love.

We recognize children as whole people with feelings, thoughts, needs, and voices worth hearing. Here, every child is treated with kindness and spoken to with respect.

We help children connect with their world, with each other, and most importantly, with themselves. Because children who stay connected to their hearts grow into adults who know their worth, trust their voice, and lead with compassion.

We think that makes this world a better place.

My Story

A Personal Note from Alissa Bryson,

Founder & Early Childhood Educator of The Wilds

I have not always seen teaching the way I do today.

A few years ago, while living in Seattle and going through some big changes in my own life, I realized something important was missing in my work. I loved spending my days with children, but the schools I worked in felt like they were missing...something. I saw teachers just getting through the day and I wondered where is the joy? Where is the connection and the magic that makes learning come alive?

During my time of healing and growth, I found myself surrounded by a beautiful community of teachers and meaningful relationships. I started taking risks in the classroom; I began to slow down, to listen, and to be more intentional with my teaching. As I invested in myself, I began to see a beautiful transformation.

My students changed. They were more curious, more engaged, more invested. The classroom felt alive with purpose and fun. And something even more special happened: my relationships with parents deepened in ways I never expected. The trust and support we built together filled me with gratitude. It was in these moments that I truly understood what education should be- it should be connective. The student to their education, Parents to their children and their classroom, and us, the teachers, acting as an intentional hub in between all these relationships.

I made this school to breathe change in education and align our children with what this world really needs: Connection. This school was created to be a part of that change.

The name “The Wilds” comes from the feeling I have when I step into the forest: nothing makes me wonder in the infinite expressions of creation more than being in the wilderness. It is radical acceptance of every little thing that makes nature the marvel it is. We were made to be spectacular creators- our only limit is us. In a world where it is so easy to forget that, I am here to break that ceiling. I want children to know they are limitless and are the inventors of their own reality.

I hope your time with us is filled with warmth, kindness, and joyful discovery as we grow together in community.

With a heart full of gratitude,

Welcome to The Wilds.