Bridgewater Educators Create Learning Through Nature School

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Two Bridgewater educators are breaking free of the four walls of a classroom to help children, in the township and beyond, learn while building deep connections with nature.

Melissa Ferrao and Ruth Denys have always believed in getting kids outside and the benefits of learning with nature. When the pandemic hit, the importance of being outdoors magnified.

"In the time of COVID and an uptick in virtual learning and screen time, parents want their kids outside more. That is exactly where we come in," said Ferrao.

Ferrao and Denys, who are educators in the community with over 20 years of experience, launched Nature At Heart School, an outdoor education program where children learn to make meaningful connections with nature alongside their peers and teacher.

They ran a pilot program this past spring which filled up within hours. There are two types of classes - the Nature Seekers Together which is for ages 2 to 5 where a parent or grown-up can attend with them. And the Nature Seekers which is for ages 5 to 8 where no parent is needed.

The classes teach the children a general introduction to plants, animals and fungi. Kids will also gather together and sing, jump like frogs, do nature hikes where kids can discover things along the way, journal experiences and more.

"There is a true balance approach where some parts are teacher-directed and some are children-directed," said Denys. "It is true learning in play with no intrusiveness."

Ferrao said this past year homeschooling her seven-year-old twins in elementary school only solidified her belief in the benefits of the outdoors.

"We spent a lot of time outside. We are living it not just saying in theory that it works but doing it - and seeing the benefits of outside education is astounding, said Ferrao. "I see in my own kids they are so much more focused, calm, and connected to what they are doing."

For this upcoming summer, fall and winter, Nature at Heart School is partnering with the Bridgewater Recreation Department to offer a series of weekly classes for children ages 2 through 8.

The classes will be held at Chimney Rock Park and there are still some slots available.

For more information visit natureatheartschool.com or Facebook or Instagram.

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