Chickadee dee dee!

Chickadee dee dee!

It was a lively day today at preschool. I came down the hill as the kids enjoyed their snack break by a beautiful warm fire. Gwen read to the kids as they munched on orange slices, crackers, and other delicious foods. My presence was met with waves and smiles with one kiddo remarking “You’re the camera Lady!” I was so happy that they remembered me from my last visit. Another exclaimed, “I’ve never met a REAL photographer before.” I was so excited to join them for a morning of games in the light snow. This time the kids were less shy and began to ask me questions about my job and photos. Whenever a child found a particularly gnarly stick, or hugged their friend, they sang out, “Isa take a photo of this!” Below are a few selections of kid directed photos (Which always turn out to be my favorite). Soon it was time to put mittens back on and transition to the day’s activity. Everyone was anxious to open a clear bin filled with beautiful colored scarves and fabrics. Taking turns, they wrapped scarves around trees in a small circle. Kids played chickadee birds and called each other to signal switching trees before whoever was “it” reached their abandoned tree. Fionna was there whenever kids needed a refresher on the rules. Some were so excited, they ran without remembering to call their friends! Rules or no rules, it was clear the game was a hit. With red cheeks and big smiles, the kids ran and giggled until it was time to slide back down the climbing hill. Another fun filled day in the woods!

Pancake day at preschool!

Pancake day at preschool!

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.