Wild Hearth is for children who thrive in creative, hands-on environments and who are curious about the natural world. It’s ideal for families who value a slower, more connected rhythm of learning—one that honors each child’s voice, interests, and pace.

Our days will follow a rhythm of inhales and exhales. Times of inhale are more structured and require focus or engagement, children are "taking in." Times of exhale are for release, rest, and integration. This might look like a morning lesson in the garden on compost, followed by a snack and independent time outside with their nature journal. 

Not at all! No background in gardening, art, baking, or herbalism is expected—just curiosity and a willingness to try.

Children of all reading and writing levels will be supported. Activities are hands-on and adaptable, allowing each child to engage in a way that feels right for them.

Child-led means that children are trusted as active participants in their learning. Rather than following a rigid curriculum, they will be offered invitations, materials, and experiences—and supported in following what sparks their curiosity.

This might look like:

• A child digging deeper into herbs after harvesting lemon balm in the garden

• Choosing to spend extra time sculpting during art instead of baking that day

• Asking a question about insects that leads to an unplanned search in the garden

Guidance, rhythm, and structure are present—but I will leave room for wonder, voice, and choice. Children are encouraged to listen inward, follow what feels meaningful, and move at a pace that supports joy and connection.

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Yes! A nourishing snack and lunch are included each day. Meals are simple, homemade, and seasonal whenever possible. I can accommodate common dietary needs—just let me know your child’s restrictions or preferences during registration. My pantry is already free of food dyes, seed oils and preservatives.

The small group size allows for flexibility, attention, and relationship-building, so children can engage in ways that feel natural and meaningful to them.

This is a drop-off program, though I understand having kids who are slow to warm in new environments. We will have at least 2 open houses this summer so we can meet and you can see my home and garden. If you decide to sign up and your child is still nervous, you are welcome to stick around until your child is comfortable, though the ultimate goal is to be dropped off.

While I won't provide direct instruction in academic subjects like reading or math, these skills naturally weave into our days. Through activities like following a recipe, measuring garden beds, writing signs, or researching a favorite plant or artist, children use and strengthen core academic skills in meaningful, real-world contexts. The focus is on nurturing creativity, critical thinking and confidence—foundations that support all kinds of learning.

Yes, Wild Hearth Learning is held in my home and backyard garden. It’s a small, lived-in space that’s been shaped with care—cozy, creative, and full of character. We do have pets, including a friendly dog and a couple of cats who do their own thing. They won’t be directly involved in the program, but families with allergies or sensitivities should be aware of their presence.

No, this is not a religious program. We do not adhere to any particular religion, but honor a variety of beliefs and focus on values like compassion, cooperation, presence and respect for others and the natural world. All families and backgrounds are welcome.