Flourish Nature School in Johnsonburg, NJ
Play. Explore. Learn.
Flourish.
On a 300-acre property of a beautiful camp and retreat center…
lives a magical nature preschool…
…inviting a world of curiosity, imagination and mindful exploration.
About Flourish Nature School
We are a nature-based preschool for kids ages 3-5 that prioritizes outdoor time, mindfulness, and creative expression. We strive to spend most of our day outside, as we stand grounded in the knowledge that children who play and learn in nature become happier, healthier, more connected versions of themselves.
When was the last time your child made a ‘cake’ out of mud, sent a boat made from a leaf down a babbling brook, gazed at the stars, or wondered why wolves howl? When was the last time your child took an intentional breath or was encouraged to slow down to observe the beauty around them?
We’re living in a time where children have more access to electronics, apps, and endless YouTube content than ever before - that’s a lot of screen time! So how do we inspire our kids to develop awareness, awaken creativity, connect with nature and empower them to experience life to the fullest? We let nature do the teaching for us.
WHY CHOOSE FLOURISH NATURE SCHOOL FOR YOUR KIDS?
We believe in cultivating a nurturing environment where children flourish in harmony with the wisdom of nature. We’re committed to offering a holistic and empowering educational experience that nourishes the mind, body, and soul. It’s our mission to empower young minds to grow, thrive, and discover their innate potential while forging a deep bond with the natural world around them.
Guided by the rhythm of the Earth and led by your kids' curiosity, each day at Flourish becomes an exciting adventure, including play, stories, breath, journaling, creative expression, conscious conversations, sensory exploration, affirmations, song and movement.
Our School Day Looks Like This:
☼ 9:00-9:05 - Arrival
☼ 9:00-9:30 - Settle In + Morning Centers in Indoor Classroom
☼ 9:30-9:45 - Clean up, Bathroom + Transition Outside
☼ 9:45-10:00 - Snack
☼ 10:00-10:10 - Circle Time in Outdoor Classroom
☼ 10:10-12:00 - Outdoor Play + Exploration + Activities
☼ 12:00-12:10 - Bathroom
☼ 12:10-12:45 - Lunch
☼ 12:45-1:00 - Pack Up + Dismissal
Meet Ms. Jen
“Creating the program for Flourish Nature School has been a dream come true and a true work of heart. I’m so grateful to be here, and I can’t wait to meet you and your kids!”
Flourish’s Director and Lead Teacher
“Who Are You Right Now?” — is a question my meditation teacher asks at the beginning of his podcasts. It captivates me every time. For me, it’s a gentle reminder to step into the present moment, while also hinting at the beautiful fact that we’re ever-changing beings.
In this present moment, I’m a learner and an un-learner. I’m a mother, a teacher, a daughter, a photographer, an empath, a great friend, and a grateful human being on a journey of self-discovery, acceptance, service, and love.
"Children are the future, and without children rooted in the Earth, there can be no future."
- Tom Brown's Field Guide to Nature and Survival for Children
What Parents Say:
“My daughter loved her mindfulness and nature classes with Ms. Jen. She talks about them all the time. Ms. Jen’s passion and love for teaching shines through. It has been such an enjoyable experience watching my daughter grow to love nature, as well as practice moments of stillness, mindful movement and breath at such a young age.
- Parent, 4-year-old daughter
