Damariscotta YMCA Unveils Five Yurt Classrooms for Early Childhood Education
The new Discovery Village facility integrates nature trails and gardens into the curriculum for local families.
By Justin Barnes ·
A new early childhood education facility in Damariscotta, Maine, will utilize five permanent yurts to expand childcare access for local families. The project, known as Discovery Village, is located at the Central Lincoln County YMCA at 525 Main Street.
Construction partner Wright-Ryan reports that the site includes four yurts designated for classrooms and a fifth unit for administrative and storage purposes. The village design incorporates a nature-inspired playground, with direct access to existing trails behind the YMCA.
The curriculum for the program includes daily nature walks, gardening, and storytelling. Children will also prepare food using vegetables grown in the facility's garden. This approach embeds outdoor activity into the standard learning routine rather than treating it as an extra-curricular option.
The YMCA developed the Discovery Village project specifically to increase childcare availability in the community. The facility aims to provide a distinct educational environment that prioritizes time spent in natural settings.
Local residents are scheduled to view the completed site during a community celebration on Friday, November 13. The event runs from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and includes facility tours, refreshments, and activities for families. Details and registration options are available on the YMCA's event page.
