A nature-based, child-centered education in a unique space with a cottage-like feel are just some of the alluring benefits of Nurture House, a new early childhood program in the North Hills.
Nurture House, founded by Ashley Cifone, a prelicensed therapist, educator and 20-year child care professional, wanted to create a more intentional, child-focused approach to early education in the Pittsburgh region.
“I really want the children to feel like they truly know one another, and I want their families to feel supported by this community beyond their time at Nurture House,” Cifone said.
Applications for 2026 enrollment are now being accepted for toilet-trained children who are 3 and half and older.
While Nurture House is happy to be in the company of several quality child care programs in the North Hills, Cifone said what sets her program apart is the children get to be “in charge” of what they’re learning.
Nurture House is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, a child-led and play-based curriculum with a strong focus on social-emotional learning, mindfulness and hands-on outdoor experiences, including nature exploration and gardening.
“One thing I love about Reggio Emilia is that, as a teacher, I get to stay fully present. When children decide the direction of a lesson, I get to find creative ways to incorporate the skills and practices that nurture their confidence, so every cohort is truly different,” Cifone said.
Sometimes people hear “play-based” and think children aren’t engaged in meaningful learning. However, the fundamentals are woven into their play, she said.
“Play is the work of childhood, as Mister Rogers says. Speaking of Fred, another highlight of this philosophy, for me, is how naturally accepting, tolerant and loving it allows us all to be. In this type of program, each child’s ideas and interests are honored and celebrated,” she said.
Nurture House is licensed as a Doing Business As under business entity Here to Nurture, LLC.
The program offers a small class size of up to six children, allowing for more individualized attention, according to Cifone. The 2026-27 school year will be held from from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. four days a week.
Beyond the emergent curriculum, meaning there is no prescribed curriculum, Cifone deeply values relationships, community and cooperation. So, students’ families and other community members will play a huge role at Nurture House, she said.
Sharing talents, hobbies, interests or areas of expertise is encouraged. Additionally, birthdays and holidays allow families to engage with the whole class so special cultural traditions can be shared and celebrated.
While Nurture House is situated on a large plot on Perry Highway, right over the hill from McKnight Elementary and Carson Middle schools, it is far from the highway, “nestled into the forest,” Cifone said.
“We have a grassy area for running around and a large enclosed garden space where we will learn to grow food,” she said.
Since this is the first year, Cifone is excited to open the space to enrolled families and see how the children naturally use the land so more features can be added that nurture their curiosity. A wildlife pond and dry creek bed are planned in the near future.
The school will be working to connect to the Northland Public Library this summer via trails that lead to a safe crossing area on a school-zoned street.
While each day is flexible, children can expect two daily meeting times to deliver lessons, discuss investigations, practice mindfulness and touch base on emotional and mental health. Free play is always offered throughout the day along with time outdoors in almost any weather. Opportunities for art, creativity and sensory play are always available, Cifone said.
It also has a unique home. An above-garage apartment was converted specifically to develop it into a pre-kindergarten, Cifone said.
“We think the property is very magical, and we believe it will become even more spectacular as we continue to grow and incorporate the children’s input,” she said.
The renovated space also kept its natural charm.
“The inside is very much like a cottage home inspired by our love for New England, with honest materials and natural elements,” Cifone said.
With a fully equipped kitchen, the children will be able to help prepare meals.
“There is a laundry area because, as a nature school, mud happens — a lot. We want it to feel like a home away from home,” she said.
Cifone, who also lives in McCandless, has been working in early childhood education since 2005 in various roles, most notably as an educator and nanny. She has a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling and has received extensive training in mindfulness education and positive discipline. She continues to take professional development and continuing education courses to maintain best practices.
The best feature of the school is Reuben the Poodle, Cifone said. After a family meet-and-greet and signed waivers, the students will have a supervised visit with Reuben.
Visitation is available by appointment only. To set one up, email hello@heretonurture.com. Additional information, including pricing, is available at nurturehousepgh.com.
Parents and caregivers can inquire about a summer 2026 program, listed at four days every week, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., at $25 per hour per child.
The start date of the summer session is flexible, depending on availability and need.