Grantee Spotlight: Walking Mountains Science Center

The George Family Foundation has supported Walking Mountains’ Community Programs for many years which include a variety of opportunities made available to residents of and visitors to the Vail Valley. Two programs that are really showing impact are Nature Tykes for 6-18 months old children and their parents, and Earthkeepers, for 3-5-year old children and their parents. Both programs aim to get families comfortable exploring and learning in the outdoors. By creating programs for this age group, Walking Mountains can foster empathy and interest in all. 

In addition to their family programs, Walking Mountains has been able to forge productive partnerships with all the public pre-schools in the Vail Valley. This partnership makes it possible for them to offer these hands-on nature experiences to children who might not otherwise have the opportunity to participate. Kaitlyn Merriman, Walking Moutain’s Community Programs Manager reflects on her experience working with these amazing little ones:

“When I go into the preschools I see the kids over and over again and there are always kids who are super shy and don't want to speak or participate at first.  But by the end of the program, those same kids are communicating about observations they are making like, "This rock is huge!" "This plant is green and soft" "That bug just jumped!" and they are connecting with other children and interacting fully with nature. I always notice the teachers exchanging glances and taking notes because they are surprised and excited that this shy, quiet child is coming out of his or her shell in such a short time!”



Walking Mountains PreK program at the Family Learning Center 

EarthKeepers program at Walking Mountains Science Center

Nature Tykes Program at Walking Mountains Science Center

Nature Tykes Program at Walking Mountains Science Center

Walking Mountains PreK program at the Family Learning Center