Fenner Nature Preschool connects the early learners of Lansing to nature through exploration, play, and discovery. Rooted in a Reggio-inspired, relationship-centered approach, our programs support children in building confidence, curiosity, and a deep connection to the natural world.
We offer two unique preschool programs for children ages 3–6 (beginning at 33 months when developmentally appropriate), each designed to provide meaningful, play-based learning in nature.
We are excited to partner with families across the region and look forward to welcoming you to Fenner Nature Preschool. Read on to learn more about our programs.
Our Programs
Sycamore Creek Program (Full-Day)
ENROLLMENT APPLICATIONS FOR SYCAMORE CREEK ARE CLOSED.
Located at 1526 E. Mount Hope Avenue, just a half-mile west of Fenner Nature Center, our Sycamore Creek program offers a full-day preschool experience that blends indoor and outdoor learning. The Sycamore Creek property is nestled along the Sycamore Creek, adjacent to the Red Cedar River, and boasts 53 acres of rolling fields and established riparian wetlands, creating a unique and breathtaking vista for children to explore and learn in.
Children move between the indoor classroom and outdoor environments throughout the day, engaging in hands-on, child-led exploration.
Program Details: Year-round enrollment (fall, spring, and summer semesters)
Weekly Tuition Standard Day 8:30-3:30
Weekly Tuition Extended Day* 8:30-5:30
Full-Time Monday-Friday
$280
$340
Part-Time Monday/Wednesday/Friday
$195
$230
Part-Time Tuesday/Thursday
$140
$175
*Extended day programming is not offered during the summer semester
Maple Grove Program (Fully Outdoor, Part-Day)
NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR MAPLE GROVE PROGRAMS
Located on-site at the beautiful 134-acre Fenner Nature Center property, the Maple Grove program is a fully outdoor preschool experience. Children spend their entire program time outside, using a simple “base camp” classroom and the surrounding natural areas as their learning environment.
Children attend in all seasons, building resilience, independence, and a strong connection to nature through daily exploration and play.
Children must be fully potty trained to enroll in Maple Grove programs.
Maple Grove Enrollment Process (Summer 2026 & Fall 2026-27)
Please review the steps below carefully. Enrollment is accepted and reviewed on an ongoing basis as space allows.
Step 1: Submit an Enrollment Request Application Enrollment requests are accepted on a rolling basis beginning April 20, 2026. Families who wish to be considered for enrollment may submit an application at any time while space is available. You can find the links above.
Step 2: Application Review & Placement Notification Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. Families will be contacted regarding placement or waitlist status as openings become available.
Step 3: Enrollment Walk-Through & Meet-and-Greet Families offered enrollment will be invited to visit the site for a walkthrough prior to finalizing enrollment whenever possible.
Step 4: Acceptance & Deposit If a placement is offered, families will be given a deadline to accept at that time. A non-refundable $250 deposit is required upon acceptance to secure the child’s placement (applied to first month’s tuition).
Scholarships & Child Development & Care (CDC) Payments: Fenner Nature Preschool accepts State of Michigan CDC payments, which are applied directly to family accounts to reduce the balance owed. A limited number of need-based scholarships may also be available. Reach out to learn more.
Reapplying: If your child is not placed within the year (Fall 2026-Summer 2027), you must submit a new enrollment request during the next enrollment request period to be considered for a future school year.
