LEARN , PLAY , AND EXPLORE !
KIM JONES
Fun , engaging activities for preschool-aged children in Southern Vermont
I n honor of the curious , exploratory philosophy underpinning the educational programming at Fiddleheads Farm and Forest School , we have compiled a curated list of engaging outdoor , educational , and play activities for preschool-aged children and their families . Get ready to make some memories and enjoy some family-friendly fun !
Wonderfeet Kids ’ Museum
66 Merchants Row Rutland , VT 05701 Wonderfeetkidsmuseum . org
Wonderfeet Kids ’ Museum in Rutland , VT , is a haven for young explorers , fostering curiosity and creativity through play . One of its charming , interactive exhibits is the Farm , catering to children from birth to two years . Infants and toddlers can crawl and frolic in their gated barnyard and engage in playful learning . The Farmer ’ s Market exhibit mirrors Southern Vermont ’ s iconic agricultural community , offering young learners the chance to roleplay by buying and selling healthy foods . The Casella Recycling Truck empowers children to sort materials , underscoring the importance of recycling . From the Train & Depot to the Credit Union , Diner , and Bandstand , each exhibit provides unique learning opportunities , promoting collaboration , imagination , and skill development . Additionally , the Mountain Playground and Wonder in the Woods exhibits immerse children in the beauty of Vermont ’ s landscape , encouraging creativity .
The Nature Museum
186 Townshend Rd .
Grafton , VT 05146 Nature-museum . org
The Nature Museum in Grafton is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts , dedicated to educating visitors about the wonders of the natural world . Founded in 1989 by Sue Hadden and Don Clark , the museum has evolved into a vibrant hub for environmental education and conservation . Nestled on 4 acres of pristine Vermont land , the museum offers immersive experiences for all ages . The Mighty Acorns Educational Program invites young adventurers aged 3 to 6 to explore nature through interactive lessons , activities , and outdoor adventures . Another highlight is the annual Fairy House Festival , a magical celebration of the natural world featuring enchanting fairysized houses tucked along woodland trails . In addition , The Nature Museum ’ s calendar features exciting events like the upcoming “ Who Lives in a Pond ?” program session in June . Scheduled for Friday , June 7th , 2024 , from 10am to 12pm , this session delves into the fascinating world of pond habitats and their diverse inhabitants .
Hildene , the Lincoln Family Home
1005 Hildene Rd ., Manchester VT 05255 Hildene . org
At Hildene , The Lincoln Family Home , early childhood education is a cornerstone of their founding mission . Rooted in experiential learning , Hildene ’ s school programs offer immersive educational opportunities across their sprawling 412-acre estate . From wetlands and streams to meadows , forests , ponds , and vernal pools , their programs span diverse ecosystems , providing students with rich learning environments . Past highlights have included include their “ Curious About Curious Goats ” program , designed for grades K-2 and 3-4 . Students explore Hildene ’ s goat dairy , learning about the life cycle , adaptations , and behavior of goats . The “ Wild & Wary :
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