WonderLab Preschool
Wisdom begins in wonder.
ExplorationWorks' WonderLab Preschool is a unique preschool nestled within the walls of our museum that caters to children ages 2 - 5. This enriching program includes is a blended combination of early STEM education and nature-based learning. Our supportive environment fosters independence and collaborative play to build confidence.
Key Features:
Operating Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Small Class Sizes: With a 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio, we ensure personalized attention and support for each child.
Separate from Museum Operations: WonderLab Preschool maintains its own distinct space to create a dedicated learning environment.
Enrollment Information:
We are excited to announce our targeted opening date of October 14th! We currently have spots available and encourage interested families to email Shannon Thomas, Preschool Director, at shannont@explorationworks.org.
Monthly Rates:
Monday - Friday: $1250
Monday, Wednesday, & Friday: $707
Tuesday & Thursday: $505
Families are encouraged to apply, and those eligible for Best Beginnings scholarships will be considered.
Questions? Please contact Shannon Thomas, shannont@explorationworks.org or 406.603.4132.
WonderLab FAQs
Can we go all year? WonderLab runs all through the summer!
Do siblings get a discount? We do not give a discount, but siblings will be given priority registration.
Where do students play outside? Students will use the outdoor classroom for daily recesses and lessons, they will also walk to Centennial park weekly.
Does my child need to be potty trained? We ask that your child is independently toileting (able to undress/dress and wipe) when they begin at WonderLab.
What curriculum are you using? We are using a curriculum called Blossom and Root along with Montessori materials. There will be a strong influence of STEM and nature studies in our daily routines.
How are kids split up? Students of all ages will be in one classroom together. This provides positive peer modeling and interactions. Teachers will give small group lessons to different skill groups.
Is there a resting/nap time? Yes, we schedule a resting a resting period after lunch. Nappers will have a quiet area to sleep as needed. Non-nappers will rest and be able to do quiet activities at their mat.
Are immunizations required for my child to attend? At WonderLab Preschool, the health and safety of our children, families, and staff are our top priority. As a private childcare provider, we do not accept religious exemptions for immunizations. We require all enrolled children to be fully immunized, ensuring the well-being of our entire community, especially those who are more vulnerable to preventable diseases.
Have more questions? No problem! Please reach out to us at WonderLab@explorationworks.org.
Meet the Team
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Shannon Thomas
WonderLab Director and Fundraising Specialist
Shannon is a native of Helena and has always loved it here. She graduated in 2007 from Carroll College with a degree in Elementary and Special Education. After graduation, Shannon worked for several years both in public school and private pre-school before stepping away from teaching. She is very excited to return to an educational environment!
Shannon loves to spend time reading, being in the sunshine and cheering for the Red Sox & Boston Bruins. She lives with her husband James, son Jackson and their cats, dogs and goldfish.
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Whitney Summers
Early Childhood Lead Teacher
Whitney grew up on a patch of heaven in Wyoming and has always had an affinity for all things earthy. As a child she was happiest digging in the dirt, going to museums and learning about the world around her. She was encouraged to always ask questions and due to that has an immense love of learning. Her hobbies include hiking, foraging, cooking, and creating various visual arts. She studied multiple art forms such as ceramics, digital art, and art history. When she isn’t collecting rocks, bones or snake shed skins, she’s in her garden tending to her herbs or painting among her chickens
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Lauren Rivers
Early Childhood Lead Teacher
Lauren first came to Montana in 2009, searching for something to feed her soul. After teaching outdoor programs for several years, she discovered a parallel passion for informal science education. She joined the ExplorationWorks team in 2015, where she has piloted outdoor science programs, taught robotics classes, and started a club to empower girls to succeed in STEM fields.
Lauren recently spent a year as a forest preschool teacher, where she recognized a deep community need for STEM-focused early childhood education. She was thrilled to return to her ExplorationWorks family in 2024 to help launch the new WonderLab preschool.
When not flipping rocks in search of bugs or playing with messy science, Lauren can be found biking, camping or geocaching with her husband Andrew, their twin boys Ansel and Everett, and Seeley the adventure dog. She heartily dislikes celery and considers kite-flying to be a transcendent experience.
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Ashlyn Wood
Early Childhood Assistant Teacher
Ashlyn grew up in Clancy and went to Jefferson High School. She has always had a love for science and the outdoors, she competed in Science Olympiad for 6 years and even competed in a nationals competition! She has been working in a childcare setting for a little over a year, and has found a unique passion for early education. She’s a thespian with a love for theater and being on stage. She loves to be outdoors, camping, hiking, and finding bugs. When not outside you can find her indoors drawing, reading or baking!