A summer of adventure, learning, and fun awaits in the heart of the Black Hills. Children explore, create, build friendships, and grow through hands-on experiences and time outdoors. Scholarships available. Limited spaces. Sign up early.
Growing Roots welcomes children to our outdoor summer preschool in Custer, South Dakota. Children spend most of their day outside exploring, creating, and discovering in the natural beauty of the Black Hills.
Our summer program includes:
Outdoor play and nature exploration
Mud kitchen and sensory activities
Hands-on, child-led learning
Mixed-age groups that build leadership and confidence
Daily routines that support independence and social growth
Located near Custer State Park and the Black Hills National Forest, our environment encourages curiosity, movement, and connection to the outdoors. Scholarships are available - submit your interest form.
May 27 - August 21, 2026
(Program ends at 12:00 PM on August 21)
Full-Day
7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Drop-off: 7:30 – 8:00 AM
Pick-up: 4:00 – 5:00 PM
Half-Day Morning
7:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Drop-off: 7:30 – 8:00 AM
Pick-up: 12:00 PM
Independence Day: July 3, 2026
We offer consistent weekly enrollment options designed to support both family schedules and each child’s development.
Programs operate Monday through Friday only. We do not offer weekend care.
Full Day: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Half Day Morning Preschool: 7:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Choose from:
5 days per week
3 days per week
2 days per week
Specific days are determined individually with each families based on:
Parent work schedules
Program availability
What best supports the child's experience
Please note:
Schedules remain consistent throughout the summer
Scheduled days cannot change week to week
Families may take one week off during the summer with advance notice for prorated tuition
Enrollment for specific schedules may close early due to capacity limits
Limited spaces available. Secure your preferred schedule early.
Tuition is due monthly.
5 Days per Week
Full Day: $210 per week
Morning Preschool: $132 per week
3 Days per Week
Full Day: $158 per week
Morning Preschool: $79 per week
2 Days per Week
Full Day: $105 per week
Morning Preschool: $53 per week
New students:
A $20 non-refundable enrollment fee is required to secure your spot.
Financial assistance is available! Apply for a Scholarship.
Registering is simple:
Complete the Summer Interest Form.
On the form, indicate if you are interested in financial assistance through the scholarship program.
We will contact you to confirm availability and review schedule options.
Complete enrollment paperwork.
Submit first month's tuition and the $20 enrollment fee (new students only).
Your child's spot is confirmed.
Please note:
Submitting an interest form does not guarantee placement. Enrollment is completed after paperwork and payment are received.
Scholarship requests are handled discretely and respectfully.
Our outdoor summer preschool in Custer, South Dakota is designed for children ages 2.5 - 6 who are potty-trained. It is a great fit for families who value time outside, hands-on learning, and child-led exploration.
Children in our program benefit from:
Unstructured outdoor play that builds gross motor skills, creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork
Nature-based activities that introduce early STEM concepts in fun and engaging ways
A balance of guided learning and open exploration, allowing children to follow their interests, experiment, and learn through experience
Mixed-age groups that foster social and learning interactions between older and younger children - big kids teach, little kids reach
If your child enjoys exploring nature, trying new things, and learning through experience, they will thrive in our summer program in the Black Hills.
Submit your interest form for summer enrollment.
Growing Roots is proud to serve families in Custer, Hill City, Hermosa, and surrounding Black Hills communities. Our outdoor-based summer preschool offers hands-on learning, time in nature, and scholarships for families who need support.
Limited spaces. Big adventures.
