Nature Explorers Outdoor Preschool Program
Nature-Based Drop-Off Preschool in Framingham, MA- Scroll down the page for our summer 2026 program info
Nature Explorers is a drop-off, outdoor preschool program in Framingham, Massachusetts, offered through the Pilgrim Day Camp Family Center. The program is inspired by Forest School principles, emphasizing child-led exploration, outdoor play, and learning through nature. Designed for preschool-aged children, this nature-based program combines hands-on outdoor learning, play, and gentle structure in a nurturing environment.
Families looking for an outdoor preschool near Framingham or Metrowest will find Nature Explorers to be a flexible and affordable option that supports early learning, curiosity, and confidence.
Program Hours: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Pilgrim Day Camp Family Center, Framingham MA
Pricing: $60 per day, per child
Schedule: Enroll for one day or multiple days per week
What Is Nature Explorers?
Nature Explorers is a nature-based preschool program where children learn through outdoor play, exploration, stories, art, and hands-on discovery. The program emphasizes social-emotional growth, independence, and connection to the natural world.
Children spend the majority of their time outdoors, exploring fields and forested areas while participating in age-appropriate activities led by experienced educators.
Who Is This Program For?
Nature Explorers is ideal for preschool-aged children who:
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are ready to try a drop-off preschool program
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enjoy outdoor play and exploration
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thrive with routine, movement, and hands-on learning
This program is well-suited for families seeking a nature preschool, Forest School–inspired program, or outdoor learning program in Framingham, MA.
Daily Activities & Learning
Each day in Nature Explorers may include:
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outdoor exploration and nature walks
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sensory play and building activities
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songs, stories, and group games
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simple outdoor art and science activities
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social-emotional learning through routines
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lunch and snack time outdoors
Activities shift with the seasons, allowing children to experience nature year-round.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 9:30–9:45 | Arrival & welcome |
| 9:45–10:30 | Nature exploration |
| 10:30–10:45 | Snack & story |
| 10:45–11:30 | Barnyard Animal Interactions |
| 11:30–12:15 | Stations and Discovery |
| 12:15–12:45 | Lunch and Free play |
| 12:45–1:00 | Closing circle & pick-up |
Pricing & Enrollment Flexibility
Nature Explorers costs $55 per day, per child. Families may register for a single day or multiple days per week. There is no full-week requirement.
This flexible structure makes Nature Explorers an affordable alternative to traditional preschool programs in the Framingham and Metrowest area.
Pricing & Enrollment Flexibility
Nature Explorers costs $55 per day, per child. Families may register for a single day or multiple days per week. There is no full-week requirement.
This flexible structure makes Nature Explorers an affordable alternative to traditional preschool programs in the Framingham and Metrowest area.
Communication, Photos & Updates
Nature Explorers uses Remini to communicate with families. Parents and caregivers can message the teacher through the app, and staff share updates and photos highlighting daily activities.
While updates may be shared in batches rather than in real time, families can expect regular communication and photos from the program.
Meet the Teacher
Nature Explorers is led by Ms. Courtney, a certified preschool teacher and outdoor education specialist with experience in early childhood education and outdoor learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nature Explorers?
Nature Explorers is a drop-off, outdoor preschool program at Pilgrim Day Camp Family Center. Children spend their mornings learning through play, exploration, stories, movement, and hands-on nature activities in a nurturing outdoor environment.
Can I try just one class?
Yes! You’re welcome to start with a single day and see how Nature Explorers feels for your child before committing to more days.
What ages is Nature Explorers for?
Nature Explorers is designed for 3-5 who are ready for a drop-off experience and enjoy outdoor, play-based learning.
Is this a drop-off program?
Yes. Nature Explorers is a drop-off program. Children must be able to separate from a caregiver and participate independently with staff support.
What are the program hours?
The program runs from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM.
How much does Nature Explorers cost?
The cost is $60 per day, per child.
Families may enroll for individual days or multiple days per week, based on availability. There is no full-week requirement.
What does a typical day look like?
Each day includes outdoor exploration, nature-based play, stories, songs, art, sensory activities, lunch, and free discovery time. Activities change with the seasons and weather.
Is the program outdoors every day?
Yes. Nature Explorers is an outdoor-based program, and children spend most of their time outside. Activities may be adjusted during extreme or unsafe weather conditions.
What happens if there is bad weather?
Nature Explorers follows Framingham Public Schools for weather-related decisions.
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If Framingham Public Schools have a delay, Nature Explorers will close and families will receive a refund.
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If Framingham Public Schools have a snow day, Nature Explorers will close and families will receive a refund.
Families will be notified as soon as possible.
What should my child bring each day?
Children should bring:
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a packed lunch and snack
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a labeled water bottle
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weather-appropriate clothing
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an extra set of clothes
Mud, snow, and messy outdoor play are part of the Nature Explorers experience.
Do you provide lunch or snacks?
No. Families should pack a lunch, snack, and water bottle each day.
Will I get pictures or updates during the day?
Yes. Nature Explorers uses Remini to share photos and updates during the day. Families can message the teacher through the app, and staff will share updates highlighting what the children are doing.
While updates may not be in real time, families can expect regular communication and photos of the day’s activities.
Who leads the program?
Nature Explorers is led by Ms. Courtney, a certified preschool teacher and outdoor education specialist with experience in early childhood education and outdoor learning.
How does drop-off and pick-up work?
Children are dropped off at 9:30 AM and signed in by a caregiver. Pick-up is at 1:00 PM and limited to authorized adults.
How do I register?
Families can register online using the Register Now button on this page. If you have questions, we’re happy to help.
Do you run Nature Explorers in the summer?
Yes! Nature Explorers runs during the summer in conjunction with the Pilgrim Day Camp program.
The summer session:
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follows a one-week program format
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includes one kid-friendly swim during the week
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maintains a nature-based, play-focused approach, with some adjustments to fit the camp environment
Details, dates, and registration for Summer 2026 are not posted yet. Stay tuned for updates.
Summer 2026 Program Registration Open April 17th
Children ages 3-5 years are exposed to areas of Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Art, and Math (STREAM) naturally through outdoor exploration and play. The program provides a non-competitive environment to support children’s physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth through exploration, play, and hands-on nature and agriculture based learning. Children should dress for the weather and to get dirty. We will have at least two teachers per class. This is a great way to enjoy the spring/summer weather and try independence.
Nature Explorers Basic Infor for Summer Camp
One week sessions Monday-Friday- Kids will bring a lunch and eat as a group!-
Ms. Courtney a certified preschool teacher is the group Unit Leader and program designer-
Group has a 1:5 ratio.
A free swim is included (no lessons/ intro to swim in a beginners pool). –
Snack is provided
Daily interactions with our Barnyard Animals
Perfect introduction to kids who are new to summer camp!
Price for one week: $295
{POrice for one week:
See Below for a typical day at our summer program!!
SAMPLE OF A TYPICAL DAY
9:30 Arrival Time- Drop off at Barnyard Playard (Giant Red Barn)
- Children sign in by completing a a fun nature exploration to find their name!
- Followed by nature-based exploration and play.
10:00 am Snack
- Children naturally work on social skills while enjoying a snack brought from home.
10:30 am Barnyard Animals
- We’ll be interacting with all of our barnyard animals, goats, bunnies, chickens, and baby chicks!
11:15 am Daily Meeting
- Story and songs
11:30 Teacher Directed Activity
- STREAM nature based activities
- Mud kitchens
- Exploration
- Bug hunts
12:00: FREE SWIM IN OUR BEGINNER POOL (DEPTH OF POOL IS 2 FT-3 FT)
12:30 Lunch
Dismissal at 1:00 PM From EDWARDS HOUSE!!
Teacher Led Barnyard Playgroups! We're back!
Barnyard Adventure Playgroups encourage an early introduction to nature and agriculture. Children under the age of five and their parents will be introduced to goats, rabbits, and chickens while parents or caregivers are close by. Our outdoor areas will provide opportunities for exploration and learning about the natural world around them. Children and their adults should dress for the weather and to get dirty.
Our amazing teacher Courtney will run playgroups on Monday’s and Thursday’s.
9:30-10:30 and 11:00-12:00 (choose the time that works best for your family!)
$20 per child/parent
She’ll lead the playgroups in:
- Storytime
- Singing songs
- Animal Snuggles
- Nature Based Exploration & Play
When your playgroup ends, you can stay at the Barnyard Playard until closing time for no additional fee!