Ithaca forest preschool is a program of primitive pursuits
Our Preschool-age Programs
If you believe that children belong outside, and that the tools of imagination are what build a happy childhood, then welcome to our wooded world. Spontaneous play, exploration, cooperative problem solving, and moments of wonder and delight are what we witness each day in our all-outdoor year-round nature immersion programs for our youngest participants.

Ithaca Forest Preschool
Children nurture the seeds of nature connection every day in our all-outdoor, school-year program at 4-H Acres in Ithaca.

Growing Wild Summer Camp
Our half-day summer camp within the Primitive Pursuits program is a wonderful introduction to outdoor summer exploration.

School Breaks and Play Days
When school is out, we are in the woods. These one to five day programs are are a great way to get a taste of our program.
Ithaca forest Preschool
The Latest News from Our Blog
OPEN HOUSE & TOUR March 19th 10AM-Noon
Parents and Children are Invited to Join Ithaca Preschool instructor, Lyla White for an Open House and tour of Our Very Special All-Outdoor Preschool Program. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and tour our outdoor preschool grounds. If bringing a child,...
GROWING WILD SUMMER CAMP
@ 4-H Acres
@ 4-H Acres
We will have 8 Weeks of half-day Growing Wild Summer Camp at 4-H Acres for ages 3-5. Each day the kids get to romp in the woods and find natural materials, such as clay, rock-paint, bark, and leaves to create works of woodland art.
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...
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,...
Spots available for 2024-2025 school year
Three preschoolers "sleeping" in the nest they built. We still have limited spot available for the coming school year! Children in our program explore nature, learn about emotions and making friends, listen to stories and challenge their bodies and minds to try new...