Seeds Early Learning Center open house Monday

DOVER-FOXCROFT — On Monday, Aug. 22 Seeds, at 36 Lincoln Street in Dover-Foxcroft, will hold an open house so that community members can walk through the learning space, meet the team, and learn more about the preschool and after-school programs.

Amy-Fagan Cannon, a former public-school teacher with M.A. degrees in teaching and communication, has transformed her home and property into an inviting and exciting environment for young children to soak in information and ready them for elementary school. “Seeds is special in that we create an immersive and dynamic learning environment that fosters curiosity, wonder, and independence,” she said.

Fagan-Cannon is inspired by the philosophy of Maria Montessori as well as the work of Kim John Payne who exude educational philosophies deeply rooted in the belief that all children are budding artists, scientists, musicians, builders, and diplomats; she believes it is her calling to explore and celebrate their interests. Those who know Fagan-Cannon know that she possesses an infectious love of learning. “I am honored to be able to share this passion with children of all ages in our community,” she said.

The children at Seeds enjoy learning a wide variety of topics which have included dinosaurs, musical instruments, the human body, geology, famous artists of the past, space, oceans, farm-life,  ballet and Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker”, Prokofiev’s “Peter and the Wolf”, the work of Eric Carle, and even Ramadan.

“We are big believers in being citizens of the world and honor many cultural traditions and holidays,” Fagan-Cannon explained, “and connecting with neighbors and our local community is also a hallmark at Seeds.”

It is not unusual for the locals to see “Miss Amy” and her class on one of their daily strolls through downtown Dover-Foxcroft, or to attend one of two Seeds’ annual community events; a Solstice party in the winter and a community art show in the spring. 

“Seeds has a fabulous reputation in the region,” said Piscataquis Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Denise Buzzelli, “it is distinctly unique; after I took a tour, I wished I had young children again so I could enroll them in Amy’s program, it’s outstanding.”

Buzzelli was impressed with the curriculum and the creative use of space, noting how enjoyable it must be for children who are enrolled. “Amy is very intentional and reflective; from the arrangement of furniture and placement of lighting, to the content of the curriculum, she is committed to observing the children and making changes based upon what is working for them and what could be improved,” she said.

Future plans for Seeds include a sheltered, outdoor classroom space which would provide a larger area for children to learn and explore together; this will not be possible without significant outside contributions and grant dollars. 

The Seeds Open House Event will take place on Monday, Aug 22 at 5 p.m. Guests may park on either side of Lincoln Street during the event. Light refreshments will be served. Please RSVP by calling or texting 207-717-8389.