The Nature Explore Classroom at Five Towns Child Care Center in Inwood, NY

Five Towns Child Care Center is celebrating their 4th year as a certified Nature Explore Classroom.

Members of the Garden Club of Lawrence visit the Play Garden several times a year and help with fall clean up and spring planting and also work with parents and children in nature education programs.

A pergola was added to the back of the building over the patio and architecturally connects the building and patio to the rest of the play garden. This structure provides shade, interesting shadows and beauty. Additions of fabric and thick vines are planned for the future.

Windows were added in the back of the classroom. These additions bring in natural light while allowing children to view the beauty of the garden while inside. They also provide the magical opportunity to watch rain and snow storms.

Ongoing programs have been created to increase family awareness and are advertised through the use of flyers. Several bulletin boards were created to showcase pictures of children engaged in play and learning activities in the classroom. Parents are able to see pictures of their children planting, caring for their garden and harvesting.