Join us for an Open House
on Thursday March 21 from 5pm-6:30pm

Learn all about this unique program, tour the classrooms and and meet dedicated our staff!

The YN Preschool features a nature-based curriculum with a focus on nature play & stewardship. Students have abundant opportunities to explore nature, art, and science in deeper, more meaningful ways. The Young Naturalist Preschool is an active, hands-on learning experience where children hone the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive skills that are crucial to their development, as well as their future success in school and life beyond!

The Cornwall campus is located
at 120 Muser Drive, Cornwall NY

Click here to learn about the YN program at Warwick

Nearing its third decade, this popular program offers three- and four-year-olds the opportunity to interact with other students and with nature in a hands-on and exciting way. Young Naturalists learn skills for school and beyond by exploring, experimenting, and discovering the world around them. HHNM's Young Naturalist (YN) Preschool program emphasizes science and nature-based activities, outdoor experiences, social skills, and preparation for kindergarten using the resources of the Nature Museum. The vital skills necessary for success in kindergarten are seamlessly integrated into the environmental curriculum.

Applying for the 2024-2025 School Year at Cornwall:

Application Information

24-25 CLASSES & PRICING

SAMPLE CONTRACT

  • Group 1: Current YN students, program alumni, and siblings of current students

    ▪Group 1 Applications Open: Monday November 27th 2023
    ▪Group 1 Applications Close: Friday December 8th 2023
    ▪Group 1 Contract and Deposit Due: Friday January 5th 2024


  • Group 2: HUdson HIghlands Nature Museum Members

    ▪Group 2 Applications Open: Monday January 8th 2024
    ▪Group 2 Applications Close: Wednesday January 31st 2024
    ▪Group 2 Contract and Deposit Due: Friday February 23rd 2024

  • Group 3: General Public

    ▪Group 3 Applications Open: Friday March 1st 2024

Young NATURALIST Information:

For any questions or to apply to the 2023-2024 school school year, please contact Administrative Manager Michelleat Mmindicino@hhnm.org or 845-534-5506 x 204

“The purpose of this unique program is to provide an early childhood experience that meets the developmental needs of each child through interaction with the environment and engaging the child’s sense of wonder with the goal of developing a lifelong appreciation and relationship with the natural world.
”
— Young Naturalist Preschool Mission