by Katrina Washer, Lead Teacher 
Tutela Institute in Windsor, Colorado

There are a few things that hold an in-home preschool day together: coffee, story time, and —if you're at our house—the Bunch Bike!

When I first started our in-home preschool, I imagined the usual joys: messy art projects, squeals of laughter, sticky fingers, tiny friendships forming over shared blocks and blueberries.

What I didn’t expect was how a supersized cargo bike would become one of the most valuable instruments in our daily rhythm.

Our Bunch Bike isn’t just a bike. It's a moving classroom, a bonding tool, and a sanity-saver all in one.

From the front porch to the whole world

I load up the bike each morning with snacks, clothing changes, and up to seven wiggly toddlers strapped in safely. The excitement is real: “Are we going around the lake today?” “Which park will we visit?” “I hope the library has a puppet show!”

In just a few minutes, we’re rolling through our neighborhood, waving at neighbors, feeling the wind on our cheeks, and spotting every dog, squirrel, and stop sign along the way. What could’ve been a chaotic, sweaty stroller parade becomes a calm, connected adventure.

Natural learning moments

Every ride is full of rich early learning. We count how many trees we pass. We talk about traffic lights and bike safety. We name colors of flowers, sing songs, and even have our own version of "I Spy."

The children are constantly observing, commenting, and making connections with the world around them. The cargo box turns into a think-aloud zone.

And when we get to our destination—whether it’s a local park, garden, or story time—they’ve already had 20 minutes of fresh air and language-rich interaction before we even step inside.

Emotional regulation on wheels

There’s something about movement that helps little bodies regulate. If our morning is feeling a bit chaotic, a ride around the block is often just the reset we need. The rhythm of the wheels and the fresh air calm everyone down—myself included.

Even kids who are missing mom or having a rough start to the day usually settle into a happy, peaceful rhythm once we’re pedaling.

By the time we return, moods have lifted and we’re ready to transition into the next part of our day.

A culture of adventure

Using the Bunch Bike has created a culture of curiosity and freedom in our program. We don’t have to stay indoors just because we’re not part of a big childcare center, and we don’t have to miss out on gross motor growth just because we don’t own a commercial playground.

The kids know that learning happens everywhere. We can go anywhere. And they know their teacher (that’s me!) is up for a little adventure, even with a basket full of preschoolers and diapers in my backpack.

Final thoughts

If you’re running a preschool, nature school or child care program, the Bunch Bike is a game changer.

It gives you freedom. It builds connection. It makes your neighborhood your classroom. And best of all, it’s ridiculously fun.

Yes, it’s a big investment too. But so is a playground. So is a quality bookshelf or natural play materials. The Bunch Bike moves your program, both literally and figuratively.

And on the days when the sun is shining, the snack packs are full, and seven little voices are singing “Wheels on the Bike” while we pedal to the park?

I think to myself: This is exactly what I hoped this job would feel like.

All photos courtesy of the author. Thank you to Katrina, the Tutela families and these beautiful students for sharing your adventures with us! Read more stories from childcare providers here.