Demolition began this week at the YMCA in preparation for phase one of a capital improvement at the Harbor Montessori & Child Enrichment Center and Y–Arts facilities. Phase One of this project is the creation of a natural playground for Harbor Montessori & Child Enrichment Center.

The existing collection of cedar play features will be replaced with a natural, creative learning space that supports our philosophy which is that children learn through independent play and the teacher’s role is to foster the natural creativity, curiosity and adventurous nature in all children. In addition to play spaces, the playground will feature beds for gardening and a picnic area so that our teachers can utilize the gardens as an outdoor classroom.

Harbor Montessori Head Teacher Alexandra Pinkham said “We are very excited about the opportunities the new playground will create for our friends. The playground and gardens will strengthen our student’s connection to the natural world, teach valuable gardening concepts and skills that integrate math, science, art, health education, and personal and social responsibility.”

Jody Lewis Excavation and Property Maintenance, Conley’s Garden Center, Osprey Services and Carson Douglas Landscape Architects are all collaborating with the Y on the project which is slated for completion for September in time for Harbor Montessori Schools’ fall session.

Phase Two of this project is the conversion of our asphalt basketball courts into an Arts and Environmental Learning Center. Plans include a natural amphitheater and stage for Y-Arts programming and an outdoor classroom area. The Arts & Environmental Learning Center will be multi-functional, supporting Harbor Montessori & Child Enrichment Center during the day with designated natural classrooms, and our Fit Kidz and Y-ARTS programming in the afternoons.

The Center will be home base for the Osprey Program, our environmental education collaborative program with the Boothbay Region Land Trust for Fit Kidz, in grades Kindergarten through grade 4. The amphitheater and natural stage will provide practice and performance space for Y-Arts programming, and we also envision this space supporting Active Older Adults programs such as Tai Chi.

The Boothbay Region YMCA currently serves 38 children from 6 months to 6 years of age in our Montessori and Child Enrichment Programs. Our Fit Kidz afterschool program currently serves 31 children in grades K-4. Y-Arts programs reach over 100 youth annually. If you would like more information about programs please visit our website www.boothbayregionymca.org or stop by the Membership Desk for more information.

The entire project is made possible through philanthropic support. The YMCA will host a volunteer day for community members to help with planting this summer; if you are interested in supporting this project financially or through volunteerism, please contact Rose Mooney at rmooney@brymca.org or 633-2855. For more information on the YMCA’s programs for youth, visit www.boothbayregionymca.org.