Early Childhood Education

Early Childhood Education Programs

Our Early Childhood Education team is committed to enhancing the young child’s physical development, social and emotional growth, and cognitive abilities through intentional play-based nature experiences. We engage young children in the wonders of nature, while working alongside their families, to encourage young children to become wise caretakers of the land.

Family Forest Play

Please email Sarah if you have any questions at sodonnell@highlandscenter.org

Bring your littles to The Highlands Center for some family fun in the forest. We will meet in Forest Play on select Thursday mornings to read stories, play games, make crafts, go on hikes, and enjoy time in nature together. *Stories and activities designed for ages 0-5 years old.* This program is FREE!

Fall dates (10am to noon):

September 11, 2026 September 18, 2026 October 02, 2026 October 09, 2026

Registration links will be available August 1st!

Each session will be limited to only those who have pre-registered for that date.

Nature Melodies

Music in nature for children ages 2-5 and their caregivers

Discover the joy of music in the great outdoors! Join us for a fun-filled 4-week series where children ages 2–5 and their caregiver will explore rhythm, movement, and music surrounded by nature. Together, we’ll sing new and familiar songs, play simple percussion instruments, move to the beat, and engage in playful musical activities inspired by the natural world.

Held in the beautiful Kiwanis Amphitheater, each 45-minute class encourages curiosity, creativity, and connection while supporting early childhood development through music and outdoor exploration.

Session Details

  • Ages: 2–5 years with a caregiver
  • When: Mondays, September 14th, 21st, 28th, and October 5th from 10:15–11:00 a.m.
  • Location: Kiwanis Amphitheater
  • Cost: $50 for the full 4-week session
  • Program is for members – interested? Join today!

Come sing, move, and make music together as we celebrate the sounds of nature! Registration opens August 1st.

Fall Break Nature Camp

Nature Camp is a fully outdoor program. Campers spend most of each day hiking, exploring, and learning on Prescott National Forest trails and natural areas, often on uneven terrain and in varying weather conditions.

Families are encouraged to contact us before registering to discuss any medical, behavioral, mobility, or other special needs. Following registration, our staff review camper health information and work with families to determine whether accommodations can be safely provided within our outdoor camp setting.

Ages 6-10, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm

Seedlings – Ages 3.5-5, 8:30 am to 1:00 pm

*Seedlings must be fully restroom independent.

Questions?

Contact Sarah O’Donnell at sodonnell@highlandscenter.org