At Ithaca Children’s Garden, Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) are core to how we design our spaces, programs, and experiences. We strive to create a welcoming environment where children and families of diverse identities, backgrounds, and needs can fully participate, feel safe, and belong in nature. Learn more about IDEA at ICG, or submit and accomodations request here.
Playful Nature Explorers
Enroll in ICG’s Nature-Based Preschool
ICG’s Playful Nature Explorers is a research-based preschool program for children ages 2.5 to 5. Rooted in the rhythm of the seasons and guided by each child’s curiosity, the program places play at the heart of every day. Our experienced educators are experts in early childhood development, nurturing each child as an individual while cultivating a caring, connected learning community. Through hands-on exploration and imaginative play, children build social-emotional skills, confidence, resilience, and a lifelong bond with the natural world.
Program Information
Registration for Playful Nature Explores ’25-’26 is full — but you can still join the waitlist! Click the button below to get started.
Join Waitlist
Dates & Time
September 8, 2025 to June 18, 2026
Monday – Thursday, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
4-day schedules are strongly encouraged and prioritized. 3-day and 2-day schedules may be available.
ICG follows the Ithaca City School District calendar for holidays and breaks.
Tuition
4 days per week: $575/month
3 days: $500/month
2 days: $375/month
Scholarship Opportunities
We provide scholarships based on eligibility for free or reduced lunch. Additional need-based scholarships are available and easy to complete! If you are interested in a need-based scholarship, please answer “yes” to the question “Would you like to fill out a need-based scholarship application?” on the registration form.
Questions?
Review our FAQ here.
Complete program information for the ‘25-’26 school year can be found in the Parent Handbook.
Additional questions? Please contact register@ithacachildrensgarden.org.
Enrollment Process
Ithaca Children’s Garden welcomes ALL
Contact Us
Questions about enrollment or our programs? Please reach out at register@ithacachildrensgarden.org or call us at 607-319-4203.