Basics
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Our Teachers
Owners/Directors/Licensed Teacher: Our names are Nikita Lenahan and Paul Foley, and we are deeply passionate about nurturing children through nature-based, play-centered education. With over 30 years of experience in early childhood education, I, Nikita, am a dedicated professional, a proud mother of three – one daughter and two sons - and a licensed teacher currently pursuing my doctoral degree in education. Throughout my career, I’ve strongly believed that children thrive when they are free to explore, play, and connect with the world around them. This belief inspired my lifelong dream of creating a nature-focused learning environment that ultimately led to the founding of Bambino University. Paul, the love of my life, is a contractor, a father of three wonderful daughters, and holds a degree in business. His expertise, vision, and steadfast support have played a pivotal role in turning my lifelong dream into a reality. Together, we built a nature-based learning center where children thrive through play and discovery. At our center, pay is the foundation for growth, fostering curiosity, creativity, and confidence in every child. The curriculum at our center is intentionally designed to be inclusive, play-based, and centered on the unique developmental needs of each child. We strive to create enriching experiences where children can explore nature, engage in hands-on activities, and build a lifelong love of learning. The environment encourages imagination, self-expression, and collaboration, allowing children to develop the skills they need to succeed while staying connected to the natural world. As parents to six incredible children, our family inspires us daily and strengthens our dedication to creating a meaningful and impactful future for the next generation. The journey to creating this center has been one of passion, persistence, and belief in the transformative power of nature and play. With love and resilience, we remain dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and helping them flourish in an ever-changing world.
Philosophy
Early childhood education at Bambino University fosters a strong bond between young children and the natural world while sowing the seeds of environmental stewardship that lasts a lifetime. Bambino University promotes the holistic development of children by providing them with a strong bond with nature and fostering their cognitive, physical, social, emotional, and creative growth through daily outdoor experiences accompanied by empathetic mentors. Bambino University fosters each child’s overall well-being and equips them for academic and personal success through an integrated educational and social curriculum rooted in nature. Every child has an innate, wonder-filled curiosity about life and is a competent, unique individual ready to explore and learn. Bambino University aims to create qualified, capable, self-assured, compassionate people who are masters of their learning and motivated to change the world by leveraging children’s love of learning.
Location
Nestled in the heart of Proctorsville—a charming hamlet within the town of Cavendish—Bambino University is surrounded by the natural beauty and small-town warmth that make early childhood magical.
Our campus is located just minutes from scenic trails like the Healdville Trail and the Okemo Mountain Resort, offering endless opportunities for outdoor exploration and nature-based learning. The nearby Pollard Block and Gethsemane Episcopal Church add historic charm to our surroundingsMapcarta.
We’re proud to be part of a vibrant early education community, collaborating with local programs such as Stepping Stones Preschool and Green Mountain Preschool at Cavendish Town Elementary School. This network supports smooth transitions into elementary education and fosters shared values of child-centered learning.
Families love our location for its accessibility and peaceful atmosphere:
Close to Ludlow and Chester, with family-friendly restaurants, shops, and community events
Nearby parks and green spaces perfect for outdoor play and seasonal activities
Easy access to Route 103 and Route 106, making drop-off and pick-up a breeze
Public transportation options available through local transit services for added convenience
Whether you’re a local resident or new to the area, Bambino University offers a nurturing environment where your child can grow, explore, and thrive—right in the heart of Vermont’s natural playground.
About our program
Bambino University in Cavendish provides a supportive setting for little ones to thrive. Our focus is on fostering self-reliance and building social skills through outdoor activities. With a specialized curriculum, we nurture early learning and growth, setting a strong foundation for your child’s future.