best stem-steam programs in Newton, MA

Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.

For the past 20 years, PUDDLESTOMPERS Nature Exploration has been providing families in Greater Boston with engaging and interactive nature programming. Our goal is to inspire young children and their caregivers to explore the natural wonders in their own backyard and help combat climate change. We are proud to donate a portion of our revenue to each of the communities we serve, enabling them to support local environmental education and conservation initiatives. With PUDDLESTOMPERS, families can enjoy nature close to home and help make a positive impact on the environment.

At Parkside Preschool of Newton, MA, we understand that each child is unique and special in their own way. We strive to nurture and recognize each child’s individual qualities, creating an environment that allows them to flourish. Our curriculum is designed to promote a creative and social atmosphere while focusing on the cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development of each child. We create a safe and attentive atmosphere where children can express themselves through creative activities and have fun exploring the world around them.

At the Unitarian Society, we are lucky to have a beautiful historic building on the corner of Washington Street and Highland Avenue. What makes it even better is the huge fenced-in, well-equipped playground for our children to enjoy. Parents will also be pleased to know that our children have the use of the parish hall for an indoor gross motor room. To top it all off, there is also a cook’s kitchen that is used weekly to offer the children an exciting extended curriculum. We at the Unitarian Society are proud to be part of Pine Village, a community of small, neighborhood schools with a team of educators and business professionals dedicated to educating and nurturing each child’s individuality. With our diverse, bilingual environment and our passion for learning, we strive to engage in any environment and community.

Since then, The Teddy Bear Club has grown to serve families from all over the greater Boston and Metro-West area, with two campuses located in Newton and Lincoln, MA. We offer morning and afternoon sessions for children ages 2 to 5 years old. Our bilingual French-English program provides children with a unique opportunity to become proficient in both languages. Our experienced teachers create a stimulating learning environment in which children can feel secure and develop at their own pace. We invite you to learn more about our preschool program by visiting this site or by contacting us to arrange a tour. We'd love to show you around and answer any questions you may have. We look forward to introducing you to The Teddy Bear Club!

At Temple Emanuel Preschool, we value the strong partnership between families and teachers. We believe that by working together, we create a nurturing community for children to grow. Our teachers are dedicated to providing a safe and stimulating learning environment, where children are able to explore and discover the world around them. Through age-appropriate materials, our play-based approach encourages children to learn and grow in all areas of development. We work with each family to ensure that their child is receiving the best possible care.

At Hills and Falls, we are dedicated to providing children with the best possible start to their educational journey. Our non-sectarian, cooperative preschool allows parents to be involved in their child’s learning experience, while teachers provide a quality, play-based education in a safe and nurturing environment. We offer five different opportunities for extra care services, creating a diverse and cohesive community for our young learners.

In 1986, Bright Horizons recognized that working parents faced a major challenge with child care. To help families, employers, and organizations, the company began providing on-site centers. Now Bright Horizons offers a range of services, from child care and elder care to assistance with education and career development. These services are used by over a thousand of the world’s top companies and their brands. Bright Horizons is dedicated to creating an inclusive and respectful work environment. As a result, it has been recognized as a Fortune Best Workplace for Diversity and has earned a spot on the Corporate Equality Index for 21 consecutive years. The company’s HEART Principles guide its daily operations, emphasizing Honesty, Excellence, Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork. Through these core values, Bright Horizons strives to provide the best possible care for families.

Family ACCESS is now a respected leader in the field of family services, with a comprehensive range of services and offerings. From its Early Learning Center and Family ACCESS Early Literacy Services to its Counseling and Consultation Services and CAP Child Assault Prevention, the organization serves thousands of families every year in Newton and the surrounding towns. Through its integrated programs, Family ACCESS empowers and strengthens families regardless of their economic status. Family ACCESS is an essential community resource, providing vital services to families in local towns. With a century of experience in early education, family support, and child development, the organization continues to work towards its mission of strengthening and empowering families.

At Schechter, the unique combination of active learning and challenging content ensures that every day is filled with meaningful and engaging experiences. From kindergarten to eighth grade, our students are engaged in conversations, debates, and activities that cultivate their intellectual curiosity and provoke thoughtful reflection. It’s no surprise that our students thrive in this stimulating environment! At Schechter, each day is like a new adventure. Whether you find yourself in a second-grade classroom, a Jewish Studies class, or a kindergarten room, you'll be met with enthusiasm and engagement from our students. They are actively learning and having meaningful conversations about their faith, the world, and the topics they are exploring. The variety of creative and stimulating activities that our students take part in helps to cultivate their intellectual curiosity and encourage thoughtful reflection. Our students thrive in this environment, and we are proud to watch them grow and develop their skills. At Schechter, there is never a dull moment. Our students engage in activities that are engaging, educational, and stimulating. From conversations and debates to hands-on learning, each day is filled with meaningful experiences that help our students grow and develop. We are proud that our students thrive in this stimulating environment!