Squam Lake Natural Science Center opening state's first nature preschool

The Blue Heron Preschool, a nature-based Montessori early learning center and NH’s first Nature Preschool, will be opening in the fall of 2010 at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center. This unique preschool will integrate two very successful and innovative educational philosophies. The learning environment will apply the educational philosophies of Maria Montessori who believed that the early years, the period from birth to age six, is the time when a child’s intelligence is formed, and when her or his natural curiosity and love for knowledge is awakened. The second educational approach at the Blue Heron Preschool will focus on nature-based education with the goal to provide opportunities for children to interact with various natural communities and living things. It is strongly believed that through these interactions, children begin to connect to the natural world on a deep level and grow to care about the environment because they feel they are a part of, not separate from, the natural world in which they live.

Research indicates that daily, unstructured, outdoor play is essential to child development. Nature actively engages children’s senses and provides opportunities for the physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual growth of each child. “Nature and Science Centers across the country are finding that by adding a preschool to their programs they are greatly advancing their mission. Nature Preschools bring many benefits with the most important being that the children have the opportunity to very early on, closely experience the natural world,” said Education Program Director Amy Yeakel.

A typical day at Blue Heron Preschool will include group time with stories, music, games and discussion, snack, lunch, an extended work time — where children are free to select and concentrate on appropriate activities in the classroom, and a substantial period outdoors with both unstructured time and facilitated activities.

The Blue Heron Preschool will be open to children ages 3-6, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The school will provide affordable tuition, excellent child to instructor ratios, and a unique and innovative learning experience for your child.

For information, please contact Yeakel at 603-968-7194 x 14 or email info@nhnature.org