This Week's Mission Moment
It is a story we hear time and time again from parents: “My child does not move enough. Their school is just not a good fit, they need more time outside.” Learning in a traditional classroom simply does not work for some children. They need to be able to move and explore, learning with all of their senses. These children thrive at the Nature Center Preschool at the South Shore YMCA Natural Science Center, where a child-led STEM curriculum sparks curiosity and encourages kids to explore their natural surroundings.
When looking for a school for her three children, Dani knew she wanted her kids to have a hands-on learning experience. Then they found the Nature Center Preschool. “My husband and I could not be happier with sending our children to the Science Center for preschool. We looked at multiple schools in the area and fell in love with the idea our children would be outside, learning through nature and understanding how and why it’s important to take care of”.
"It's been an amazing experience for my kids in the STEM program," said Mirsada, a mother of four whose children have all attended the Science Center. "The program allows them to be outside connecting with other kids, in nature exploring their surroundings. My kids just love learning in nature!"
We all benefit from spending time in nature, especially children. Studies have shown that children who spend time in nature are happier, more attentive, and less anxious than their peers. As the school year ends, our Nature Adventure Camp season begins, helping kids unplug from technology and connect with friends in an outdoor setting.
To Dani, outdoor education has made a powerful impact on her family. “I’ve seen my oldest child’s imagination flourish and his appreciation of his environment expand tremendously with the science center’s approach to learning. Seeing my children thrive outside during these informative years will forever be irreplaceable.”
Environmental education is part of our core programming at the South Shore YMCA, and a cause we care deeply about. The Science Center has acres of marked wooded trails for hiking, where anyone in our Y family can enjoy the benefits of outdoor exploration and discovery. A 20-minute walk in the forest is all it takes, so come explore the Science Center and get your daily dose of nature!
