Pre-School
At Durgin Pines Preschool, we embrace a child-centered approach that recognizes and respects each child’s unique developmental path. We offer full and part time child care as well as the traditional “preschool only” program. With two full time teachers and a house full of grandparents we are truly the best place for children in Kittery.
Mon – Fri
7:00 am – 4:30 pm
Inter-Generational
The children are here five days a week and become personally involved with residents in their play, singing, parading through the halls and many other daily interactions. The special friendships that are formed lifts our resident’s spirits and reminds them of their own children and grand children. Our committed educators foster a nurturing environment where children feel encouraged, and inspired to explore and engage with the world around them.
Reggio Emelia Inspired
Children are inspired to explore, and learn through hands-on activities and collaborative projects. Our teachers nurture natural curiosity, providing guidance as they discover the world around them. The environment is designed to spark creativity and promote self-expression, fostering a sense of confidence and individuality. We value strong partnerships with families that cultivate an engaging atmosphere that instills a lifelong love of learning.
Outdoor play is an essential part of our program, providing children with a wide range of benefits. It encourages physical activity, strengthens motor skills, and nurtures a sense of independence. Nature-based experiences spark creativity, enhance problem-solving abilities, and promote teamwork, all while fostering a meaningful connection to the natural world. Outdoor play also supports emotional well-being by reducing stress, and encouraging exploration.
Speak with an elder care professional
(207) 439-9800
Our Staff
Our pre school teachers are exerpienced and caring
Abigail Wheeler
Director & Educational Leader
Abigail graduated from University of Massachusetts-Amherst with a Bachelors of Arts in Child Health and Advocacy. She is a military spouse with 3 children. Her family has lived up and down the east coast spending a long stint in Chesapeake, Va and Charleston, Sc. Abigail learned of intergenerational learning during college, where she became infatuated with the concept of quality of life for both parties. All three of her children have been through the program, with her youngest currently attending. Abigail enjoys being out in nature, hiking with her family, being a Girl Scout leader to her daughters and traveling.
Erin Silver
Teacher
Erin graduated from the University of Maine at Farmington in 2018 with a degree in Early Childhood Education. After graduating, she taught 3rd grade for two years before moving to Colorado and teaching 2nd grade for another two years. She moved back to Maine in 2022 and started working at Durgin Pines Preschool in January of 2023. She was ecstatic to find a school that matched her philosophy of education – building the curriculum around the child, not the child around the curriculum. This is a key feature of the Reggio Emilia-inspired lessons that the teachers at Durgin Pines Preschool implement. Erin recently got married in October of 2024. She lives with her husband and dog, Kaia. She enjoys reading, collecting rocks while hiking, spending time with her family, and going antiquing.
Logan Underwood
Teacher
Logan graduated from the University of New England in 2022 with a Bachelors of Arts in Marine Affairs with a minor in Communications. While in college she began working in childcare as a part time job and fell in love with the field. After graduating, she began working full time at a licensed center, working with ages three months to five years old. Logan decided to get her Registered Behavioral Technician certification in the beginning of 2024, working with children who had autism and were nonverbal before joining Durgin Pines Preschool in May.Logan lives in Kittery with her husband and two cats, Monkey and Dwight. In her free time, she enjoys being in nature camping, hiking, kayaking, and fishing. She also loves to crochet, cook, and garden during the Spring and Summer!
Our Services
Providing Quality Skilled Care and Rehabilitation Programs
Long Term Care
Fully licensed nursing home providing services to both Medicaid eligible and private pay residents.
Activities
Our activities meet the needs of our residents, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
Pre-School
We offer full and part time child care as well as the traditional “preschool only” program.
Rehabilitation
Our therapists help you achieve your optimal level of independence and well-being.
Our Clients
"The staff, from the administrators to the care givers, are truly amazing! They are all super friendly, patient, and welcoming to my mother and our family. They take the time to update us on her progress without prompting. They are passionate about the care they provide, and it shows! - Julie
"Durgin Pines truly feels like a home away from home, the compassionate staff insures that my grandmother receives personalized care and attention she deserves. It’s reassuring to know that my grandmother is such caring and loving hands." - Andrew
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