Education and Experiences made for Little Learners!
The Putnam is proud to offer a growing suite of preschool education opportunities designed to spark curiosity, imagination, and early STEM learning in our youngest explorers. Through both in-museum programs and outreach experiences, our preschool initiatives emphasize hands‑on discovery, purposeful use of technology, and student-centered learning.
Families and educators can choose from a variety of camps, workshops, and early-learning programs tailored specifically for preschool-aged children. These experiences combine play-based exploration with developmentally appropriate science, creativity, and problem-solving.
At the heart of our early childhood offerings is the new Family Discovery Center—a warm, sensory-friendly, screen-free environment designed especially for young learners and the adults who support them. This dedicated space invites children to investigate, build, imagine, and discover at their own pace through thoughtfully crafted, open-ended interactives.
Preschool Programs
Our Education Department approaches curricula through an engaging lens. We cater to all learning styles and adhere to national and state standard for Iowa. We strive to assist and support our community teachers, parents, and school administration with the task of helping students meet and exceed key curriculum benchmarks.
Partner with the Putnam Museum to access tools to enhance the learning of your students. As an area leader in non-formal education, the Putnam in-museum and outreach programs encourage hands-on experiences, utilization of technology, student-centered learning, and an overall dynamic experience!
Upcoming Programs
Ms. Keosha
Hi, I’m Keosha – the new preschool educator at the Putnam Museum! I studied Art Education at Western Illinois University before earning my BFA in Studio Art.
Before coming to the Putnam, I’d spent seven years working in childcare and several summers at camp, where I fell in love with community-based learning. Now, I’m excited to bring that same energy to the Putnam!
When I’m not at the museum, you can usually find me screen printing, exploring nature, or enjoying an iced coffee and a good book.
Family Discovery Center
The Family Discovery Center focuses on strengthening family connection through hands-on, age-appropriate interactives. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere, the Center offers a rich environment for young learners to explore, engage, and discover alongside the adults who support them.
Preschool activities made possible in part with support from:
Love Putnam Education Programs? Learn more about education for all ages [here].
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