​Our Guiding Philosophy: Nature, Nurture &Rooted Well-being

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​Founder Rachel Werth, an experienced MSW and therapist with extensive expertise in families, children, and the intricacies of their bonds, integrates Waldorf education and Forest School principles to foster holistic family well-being in nature.

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Our program emphasizes child-led discovery through abundant outdoor free play, a cornerstone of Forest School, naturally cultivating socialization and collaborative skills among children of all ages. This active exploration is framed within a Waldorf-inspired rhythm, bringing predictability and reverence to each session.

 

Through hands-on gardening and nature care, children engage with the cycles of life, fostering a deep connection to the earth while developing practical skills and imaginative capacities (head, heart, and hands). Time outdoors offers a vital respite for the whole family, strengthening bonds and emotional regulation by allowing space for authentic interaction. Crucially, we cultivate an accepting space where caregivers can shed the mental load of modern life, finding genuine social connection and empowerment as they simply be with their children and peers.

 

Rachel actively guides each session, observing children's organic learning and engaging caregivers in discussions on mental well-being and responsive parent-child interaction strategies. This unique, integrated approach holistically nourishes children and adults, fostering resilient families deeply connected to nature and each other.​​​​​​​​​

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A Glimpse into a Typical Session

While each session naturally unfolds with the children's interests and the season's rhythm, here's what a typical morning at Black Bear Gardens might look like:

• Welcome & Gathering: We begin with a gentle welcome, allowing families to settle in and children to explore a designated "soft start" area.

• Child-Led Free Play: This is a vibrant time for open exploration! The children will explore a designated space freely, with options for all ages. This block encourages rich, child-led discovery and hands-on engagement with nature.

• Snack & Caregiver Connection: We gather for a shared snack, a moment for rest and refueling. Throughout this time, caregivers have an opportunity to connect with each other. Rachel facilitates informal discussions on relevant mental well-being topics, responsive parenting strategies, and offers personalized insights, providing valuable outside support within the group setting. Children are welcomed to play in the barn with materials, or run in the field (with a great hill for rolling!)

• Nature Walk & Exploration: We embark on a focused walk, exploring the forest and looking for creatures along the way. We'll visit the chickens, observe their antics, and spend time in the garden picking herbs, harvesting gardens, and appreciating flowers.

• Farewell: We conclude with a farewell, carrying the peace of nature back into our day.