“We are so grateful for the Young Naturalist program! The educators could not be more caring and responsive to each individual child's developmental and emotional needs. They have instilled in our children a sense of wonder and confidence to explore the world around them, equipping them with the academic, social, and emotional skills to flourish for the rest of their lives.” - The Wheeler Family

“Our kids have grown up on these trails. They learned their ABC’s while developing a love for nature. The staff is unparalleled, the curriculum is fun and not only were they ready for kindergarten, they thrived! We’ve loved every muddy minute of this program and are so grateful for the experiences only possible at Hudson Highlands. So worth it!”   
-The Johnsons

My children have been involved with the Young Naturalist Preschool for the last two years and we could not be more happy with the program. Our oldest daughter in the 4's class has grown so much emotionally and academically, and she wakes up excited to go to preschool each day. She has a wealth of knowledge about the world around her for someone so young. The school is a community with teachers that are passionate about what they do, teaching lifelong lessons and truly caring for and getting to know each child as an individual. We are completely confident that our oldest is ready for Kindergarten and enthusiastically enrolling our younger daughter for a second year in the program. In her first year in the 3's class she has come out of her shell, gained confidence, learned and experienced so much, and had a ton of fun! I plan on sending my youngest through this program as well. I could not dream up a better place for my children if I tried ... outdoor play and time in nature, learning and preparation for school, and amazingly kind and caring staff in every single part of the program. -E. Daniels

The Young Naturalist program at HHNM is the best preschool in the Hudson Valley. With its innovative use of nature play and its science-based curriculum, the YN program has truly instilled a love of learning in each of my three sons. My older two sons still reminisce about their favorite memories from pre-K: Grasshopper Grove, songs about the body parts of insects, hikes through the woods, fishing in the pond, tapping maple trees for sap, and so many more. My current young naturalist will be attending kindergarten in the fall and he is more than prepared to do so. I love that their educational journey began on such a high note! If you are looking for a quality preschool with caring staff, then I cannot speak highly enough of the Young Naturalist program.

-J. Bengyak (YN parent 2013-2023)