#United States #Chicago #YMCA of Chicago #Nature Preschool #Little Explorers

Little Explorers Nature Preschool: A New Adventure Awaits!

The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago has unveiled an innovative preschool program aimed at nurturing young children’s connection to the great outdoors. The new Little Explorers Nature Preschool is targeted at learners aged 3 to 5, welcoming them to an immersive educational experience that combines fun with learning in nature.

The Essence of Little Explorers

At its core, the Little Explorers program is designed to foster curiosity, creativity, and a love for nature among young children. According to Stephanie Kuzelis, Vice President of Early Learning at the YMCA of Metro Chicago, the goal of the program is to enhance children's social and emotional skills while improving their overall mental and physical well-being. “By learning, playing, and spending hands-on time in nature, our Little Explorers will cultivate their curiosity and creativity,” said Kuzelis.

This concept embraces the unpredictability of weather that comes with living in Chicagoland, thus ensuring that no two days or sessions are alike. Every child will experience a unique adventure each time they join, which adds to the excitement of learning outdoors.

Locations and Schedule

Little Explorers Nature Preschool is set to begin on June 2, 2025, coinciding with the heart of summer-camp season. The program will be available year-round at two locations: the Indian Boundary YMCA in Downers Grove and YMCA Camp Duncan in Ingleside, ensuring that outdoor exploration can continue regardless of the season.

To accommodate different schedules, the program offers flexibility with four-week sessions available in increments of 2, 3, or 5 days per week. Parents can select either morning or afternoon slots, making it easier to incorporate into family routines.

A Call to Families

The YMCA encourages families interested in enrolling their children in the Little Explorers Nature Preschool to visit their website at ymcachicago.org/naturepreschool to find out more information and begin the registration process.

This newly launched initiative reflects the YMCA’s commitment to not only cater to the physical and social needs of children but also to nurture their emotional and cognitive skills, fostering a generation that values learning through nature.

About the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago

Serving over 300,000 individuals a year, the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is dedicated to providing accessible and inclusive programs that strengthen communities and connect people to their purposes and potential. By evolving into a 21st-century social enterprise, the YMCA offers a variety of resources through 25 community hubs and more than 100 extension sites across the Chicagoland area.

In conclusion, the Little Explorers Nature Preschool promises to be an exciting and enriching opportunity for the youngest members of the community to embark on their educational journeys surrounded by nature and supportive peers. With the YMCA's profound belief that every child is a natural learner, the adventures awaiting them will undoubtedly be memorable.

For more details and inquiries, please contact:
Katy Broom
Director of Marketing Communications
YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
Phone: 312-932-1171
Email: [email protected]

Let the adventures begin!