The Science of Spring: Vernal Equinox, Insects, Weather, Migrations, Gardening

Get $10 off my classes with coupon code FRIENNEWYEAR202510 until Jan 23, 2025. Enter the coupon code at checkout.

Welcome to  The Friendly Forest School! 

I come to you with a wealth of knowledge, classroom experience, and a passion for teaching young children though play. 

My classes follow a Waldorf-inspired approach that focuses on the holistic development of children, ensuring that academic skills are nurtured in an engaging and imaginative manner.

A predictable peaceful rhythm, delightful melodies, American Sign Language, and captivating tales (often set in the Friendly Forest) infuse every lesson, making learning a joyful exploration!I 

By embracing the ebb and flow of nature's cycles, my goal is to help children feel grounded, secure, and ready to absorb knowledge with open hearts and curious minds.

ABOUT ME: 

My journey began in the summer of 2001 when I had an internship in Early Childhood Education at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis. After graduating from Purdue University with my Bachelors Degree, I began working as a social worker and case manager for young children in LaPorte, Indiana. 

I  then moved to Phoenix, AZ and started my journey in Special Education, working as an in-home therapist for children with Autism and other developmental disabilities. I specialized in building expressive language through American Sign Language. Additionally, I focused on treating the whole child though sensory integration and positive behavior support. In 2005 I was named by the Governor as Arizona's "Caregiver of the Year"!  

In 2006, I obtained my Masters Degree in Special Education and began working in a K-6 Self Contained Classroom. During this time I worked to develop an award winning School-wide Positive Behavior Intervention Support program based entirely on peace and mindfulness. I was awarded the "You Make a Difference" award by the Osborn School District for my work on this project!
 
My daughter, Eleanor, was born in 2010. In 2013 I left the classroom to be a full-time mama. My youngest daughter, Annalise, was born in 2013. During this time I began to adopt Waldorf philosophies at home and began homeschool using Waldorf and Montessori inspired pedagogy. 

In 2017, I started my own Early Childhood Center called "Let's Play Learning". The developmentally appropriate curriculum was based on the view that children learn best when they are actively exploring the natural world and a carefully constructed environment in the company of their caregiver and directed by loving, professionally prepared teachers. I closed my doors at the beginning of the pandemic and began teaching online, which I love!  

In my classes I strive to create a culture of peace and mindfulness while teaching academic skills through nature, imaginative play, storytelling, and artistic expression. 

I now live with my family just five minutes away from beautiful Lake Michigan.