Pre-K Pioneers
A new year of discovery begins January 6th!
Give your little learner a joyful, hands-on introduction to nature, science, movement, and art — right here on the mountain. Each month brings a new theme and four imaginative learning adventures inspired by the world around us. Children will explore winter wonders, study animals big and small, discover how things move, and watch spring come alive with blooms and pollinators!
Pre-K Pioneers is a drop-off program designed to build independence with comfort and support. Children attend class while caregivers and family remain on-site — enjoying a peaceful walk through Burritt’s grounds or restful time in the car — close enough for safety, while giving young learners space to shine.
Program Details
Ages: Children must be 4 or 5 by their first class
(If your child turns 4 mid-month, they may join the next session.)
When we Meet: Tuesdays, 10:00–11:00 AM
Group Size: Up to 12 children per month
Cost: $50 for Burritt Members | $90 for Non-Members per month
* The non-member price includes admission to the museum for one adult at a reduced admission rate of $10. Admission for additional family members may be purchased in the Welcome Center.
Format: Monthly signup — each session includes 4 classes
Registration: Sign up for the full month (not individual classes)
Questions and More Information:
Contact Brendalynn Price at Brendalynn.price@huntsvilleal.gov 256-650-4718
Pre-K Pioneers 2026 Monthly Themes & Dates
❄️ Winter Wonders – January 6 – 27
🐾 Amazing Animals – February 3 – 24
🚂 Going Places – March 3, 10, 24, 31
🌸 Bugs, Blooms, & Pollinators – April 7 – 28
January – Winter Wonders
January 6-27
January invites us to slow down and notice the magic of the season. Children will explore the science of snow and ice, discover how animals stay cozy, and create art inspired by the textures and colors of winter. With each experiment and adventure, we’ll find that winter’s chill can spark the warmest curiosity.
February – Amazing Animals
February 3 – 24
Let’s go wild! This month, children dive into the fascinating world of animals — how they move, where they live, and what makes each one special. We’ll explore animal patterns, prehistoric creatures, and build our very own imaginative animal world together. Curiosity, creativity, and teamwork will guide every adventure!
March – Going Places
March 3, 10, 24, 31
Adventure awaits! In March, we’ll explore how things move — rolling, flying, floating, and zooming across the world. Children will experiment, invent, and imagine as they discover what makes motion possible. From air to land to water, this month is all about exploration, energy, and the joy of seeing how movement connects everything.
April – Bugs, Blooms, & Pollinators
April 7 – 28
Spring comes alive in April! Children will celebrate the return of color, flowers, and the busy bugs that make it all possible. We’ll follow seeds as they sprout, meet pollinators up close, and discover how every creature — even the tiniest — plays an important role in keeping our world growing and beautiful. Curiosity will blossom right along with our garden of learning!
FAQ's
Who teaches the class?
Pre-K Pioneers is led by Mrs. B (Brendalynn) — a warm, experienced educator who believes learning should feel joyful, hands-on, and full of discovery. She creates a caring space where every child can explore at their own pace, try new things, and feel proud of what they make. Mrs. B encourages independence and creativity, helping children build both confidence and fine motor skills as they learn through play. An additional adult will also be present in each class to provide support and ensure a safe, nurturing environment for all students.
Do caregivers stay with the child?
This is a drop-off program, meaning children attend class independently.
However, adults must remain on Burritt property during the session in case of emergency. Families are welcome to:
- Walk the historic park/Dr. Burritt’s mansion
- Enjoy the view
- Relax quietly in the car
- Visit the gift shop or historic park areas
This structure encourages independence while keeping everyone close and comfortable.
What’s new this semester?
This upcoming session features:
- Four thoughtfully themed months: Winter, Animals, Motion, Spring/Growth
- Introducing longer monthly themes for deeper learning
- Expanding hands-on STEM, art, nature, and movement activities
- Adding more independence-building opportunities
- Keeping classes small for more connection and calm engagement
What do children need to do before class?
To support smooth, happy learning, please ensure your child:
- Uses the bathroom before class begins. Your child must be bathroom independent.
- Wears comfortable, play-friendly clothing/shoes
- Easy-to-manage layers for outdoor exploration when weather allows
We practice independence — clothing that’s easy for kids to manage themselves is encouraged!
Will there be a chance to meet the teacher or other families?
Yes! At the end of each monthly session (February, March, and April), we’ll host a family picnic at Burritt on the Mountain to celebrate our Pre-K Pioneers community.
These relaxed gatherings invite current students and families to share in the fun and help new students meet Mrs. B (Brendalynn) and her helper before their first class. It’s a wonderful way to ease any first-day nerves, make friends, and build connections between families.
Families are encouraged to bring their own picnic lunch and stay afterward to enjoy Burritt’s beautiful views and grounds together.
Enrollment & Age Requirements
Pre-K Pioneers is designed as a 4-week learning journey for four and five year olds, with each month building around a special theme. Because our activities grow and connect from week to week, registration is for the full month rather than single classes.
Children must be 4 years old by the first class they attend.
If your child’s birthday falls mid-month, they’re welcome to begin with the following month’s session. For example, a child born on January 15 may sign up for February’s class but not January’s.
Interested in joining late or have a question about your child’s eligibility?
Please reach out to Brendalynn at brendalynn.price@huntsvilleal.gov — we’re happy to help find the right starting point for your little explorer!
What if we need to miss a class?
We understand life happens. Because space is limited and we plan supplies monthly, we cannot provide refunds or individual class credits — but we promise every month is packed with joy, learning, and memories.