The Small Wonders History

For more than 30 years, VINS has offered nature-related presentations, curricula and other learning opportunities for elementary school age children, adolescents, and adults. Our flagship Environmental Learning for the Future (ELF) program reaches thousands of Vermont children every month, and is the inspiration for our award-winning book, Hands-On Nature. However, aside from an occasional enhanced storytelling time or a simple craft and nature walk, for many years we provided nothing specially designed for young, mostly preschool age children. They deserved lessons designed especially for them - lessons that address the unique developmental abilities and interests of young children.

In 1997, VINS, with key financial assistance from the Henderson Foundation, launched its fledgling “Small Wonders” program for young children. Linda Garrett, then Education Director at VINS North Branch Nature Center, dedicated enormous time and energy to developing activities for the very young. Her own curiosity and sense of awe for the natural world, and her understanding of childhood development and decades of teaching environmental education inspired her to create the majority of activities that comprise the Small Wonders curriculum.

SW is constantly evolving. Participants have been instrumental to the success and improvement of the program. They provide valuable feedback on both the workshops, and the quality and usefulness of the activities. The advice and support of anyone who uses the Small Wonders curriculum is appreciated and always welcome.

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