The Naturescape at Davis-Scott Family YMCA Expands Pre-K and Homeschool Programming Through Nature-Based Education
The YMCA of Greater San Antonio celebrated the official opening of its new NatureScape at the Davis-Scott Family YMCA with a community ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by YMCA leadership, community partners, families, and local children.
The NatureScape is a fenced outdoor learning and play environment designed to enhance early childhood education through nature-based programming. Located just outside the branch’s front entrance, the space features outdoor classroom areas, children’s gardens, and sensory exploration elements that encourage hands-on discovery and creative play.
”Creating Spaces Where Children Can Thrive”
The project was made possible through a grant from the PNC Foundation as part of its signature early childhood education initiative, PNC Grow Up Great®.
“This NatureScape represents our commitment to ensuring that children have access to environments that nurture curiosity, creativity, and healthy development,” said Louis Lopez, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater San Antonio. “Through strong collaborations with organizations like PNC and Pape-Dawson, we are creating spaces where children can thrive physically, emotionally, and academically.”
Nature Based Settings
Research funded by PNC and conducted by the National Institute for Early Education Research found that 49% of children ages 3 to 5 play outside less than once per day. A literature review from the institute also suggests that pre-K programs conducted in nature-based settings can promote stronger learning outcomes and improved social-emotional development.
The NatureScape will serve pre-K and homeschool families and expand program-based youth offerings at the Davis-Scott Family YMCA. In addition to immersive outdoor learning opportunities, the initiative supports professional development for educators in a nature-based curriculum and strengthens family engagement.
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