Lyme Nursery School

Our Mission

Lyme Nursery School is a non-profit entity dedicated to nurturing the holistic development of young children. We firmly believe in fostering self-esteem, self-control, respect for others, and a sense of security within a supportive environment. Our goal is to cultivate a safe and stimulating space where children can thrive socially, emotionally, physically, intellectually, and artistically. We encourage creativity, imagination, and problem-solving skills, empowering each child to reach their full potential.

At Lyme Nursery School, we prioritize outdoor learning, recognizing the invaluable benefits of exploring and interacting with the natural world. Our curriculum embraces hands-on experiences, allowing children to connect with their surroundings and develop a deeper understanding of their place in the ecosystem.

Our school is guided by a dedicated board of directors composed of parent volunteers, working in collaboration with our experienced program director and faculty. We believe in a strong partnership between school and families, encouraging parents to actively participate in the LNS community.

History

Lyme Nursery School has a rich history rooted in the heart of our community. Founded in 1964 by Abbie Penfield, the school initially operated in the Lyme Congregational Church, nestled alongside the village common. For over four decades, LNS has had the privilege of nurturing and preparing countless children from Lyme and surrounding towns for their next academic adventure.

In 1971, the school embraced a cooperative model, relying on the invaluable support of parents and a dedicated board of directors. This collaborative spirit has continued to shape LNS, fostering a strong sense of community and shared responsibility.

To better serve our growing student body, fundraising efforts were undertaken in the early 2000s, culminating in the construction of a new, purpose-built facility in 2005. Inspired by a one-room schoolhouse, the building's design reflects our commitment to preserving the charm and essence of traditional learning while providing a modern and enriching environment.

About Our Curriculum

We believe in a child-centered approach to education, emphasizing the importance of individual exploration and discovery. Our curriculum is built upon the foundation of an emergent curriculum, which adapts and evolves based on the children's interests, needs, and developmental stages.

We observe and listen carefully to our students, creating a learning environment that is responsive to their unique personalities and learning styles. This individualized attention allows each child to flourish at their own pace while fostering a sense of confidence and a love for learning.

Our curriculum encompasses a wide range of engaging activities that stimulate intellectual curiosity, promote creative expression, and develop essential life skills.

Through hands-on experiences, both indoors and outdoors, children explore literacy, science, nature, art, and much more. We believe that play is an integral part of learning, nurturing imagination, problem-solving skills, and social-emotional development.

Monthly visits from the Vermont Institute of Natural Science enrich our science curriculum, providing opportunities for hands-on exploration and deeper understanding of the natural world.