A few weeks back I visited Forest Preschool during the last day of Winter Session. There was a brisk chill but the kids remained warm with lots of cozy layers.  Lyla and Liz facilitated an interactive pancake treat to usher in the new season. To gather ingredients, the kids snuck to a “sleeping” Lyla and grabbed an ingredient from around her. Playing the game, the kids did a great job of freezing once “sleeping” Lyla opened her eyes. They were able to freeze their bodies but giggles just kept coming. Once it was time to gather around the fire, I could tell how excited they all were to play their part in the making of the cakes. One by one they measured ingredients out and stirred the big bowl. I was struck by how the kids were able to stay patient despite all the anticipation of sweet treats. Once the pancakes had been cooked on the griddle over the fire  they were drizzled in homemade maple syrup.  Having tried them myself, I can attest that nothing beats a homemade pancake from Lyla. Sticky hands got all washed up at the handwashing station  and then it was time to play in the creek! Kids searched for special rocks and splashed with their friends. When everyone was thoroughly wet and sleepy they closed out the day and headed back up the hill. The cozy fire and the laughing kids made for a beautiful morning here at Trillium camp. Until next time. -Preschool visitor Isa

Office Location:
Cornell Cooperative Extension, 615 Willow Ave., Ithaca, NY 14850
607-272-2292 | email Us

Preschool Location:
4-H Acres, 418 Lower Creek Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850


Ithaca Forest Preschool is a nature immersion program for children ages 3-5. Our program is run in cooperation with Primitive Pursuits, a project of Cornell Cooperative Extension.