Program DescriptionsThe New Canaan Nature Center is a privately funded, not-for-profit educational organization, founded in 1960 as a center for nature study and related activities. Its forty acres of meadow, woodlands, streams, ponds, and marshes provide sanctuary for plants as well as animals and comprise an outdoor classroom for all. Over the years the Nature Center has developed many educational facilities and programs for the benefit of area residents. One of these is the New Canaan Nature Center Preschool.New Canaan Nature Center PreschoolIn operation since the fall of 1967, the nature-based New Canaan Nature Center Preschool serves 3, 4, and 5-year old children with an emphasis on direct sensory experiences with the natural world. The thoughtfully balanced curriculum integrates environmental education while striving to enhance the young child’s physical, emotional, social, creative and intellectual development. The program encourages children’s natural curiosity about themselves and their world.We believe children learn best through play and opportunities for meaningful, concrete experiences. This active learning allows each child to develop at his/her own pace, and to have the freedom to follow his/her own interests and make choices about daily activities, materials and friendships Helping a child develop a positive self-image and become socially competent is the best foundation for his/her future. The experiences of these early years will last a lifetime. Why Environmental Education?We focus on environmental education, creating an awareness and appreciation for the natural world. This unique preschool accomplishes environmental education goals while addressing the whole child’s developmental needs. We integrate environmental education into our curriculum, not as a separate subject, but rather we infuse it into art, music, math, language and literacy, dramatic play and other curriculum areas. The nature based curriculum addresses social, emotional, cognitive, creative and physical skills. Most of all, we are learning to love - both ourselves and the environment. With persistence, nurturing and encouragement, this love will last a lifetime. Licensing and AccreditationOur program is fully licensed by the State Department of Public Health under Connecticut’s Day Care Regulations and is Accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Visiting the SchoolTo visit our school and our grounds, please call the Nature Center’s Preschool Director, Beth Skudder at (203) 966-9577, x 16.
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