Exploring motherhood outdoors and supporting your family's journey in raising budding naturalists
8 months. It has been 8 months since I had my daughter (E) and I am full of love, exhausted, amazed, sometimes overwhelmed, full of admiration for this tiny human, worrisome...I am all of the things right now. But, I am also feeling confident and comfortable in our rhythm and bond, which is why I decided to start making my return to Among the Ferns.
Among the Ferns started in response to the COVID pandemic as a way to connect with the children I taught who started learning at home (alongside their parents who were working from home). I started with very specific videos to support those families and that blossomed into videos, resources, a full website, and even live and virtual classes for kids. As a naturalist and nature-based educator, I thrive in the outdoors and am passionate about helping families build nature connection at home. Being outdoors together naturally fosters a strong sense of community (which is part of why I love it!), and I'm hoping you'll become part of my community - no matter where you're tuning in from!
While I am returning to this work, I am returning as a new person...a Mama. I assumed I would feel like the same ol' me after becoming a mother - boy, was I wrong. My new role consumes me, but I am trying to focus on what I know and love - being outdoors. While I still work part-time for a non-profit organization AND am trying to rebuild this business, I still find time to get outside with my little sweetie. I've spent years cultivating deep and meaningful relationships with other people's children in nature, and now I get to do the same with my tiny human.
My focus for Among the Ferns has always been supporting families, and now I want to dig in even deeper. I will use my blog, Facebook, YouTube channel, and Instagram to help you and your family connect deeply with the outdoors. While I wholeheartedly believe in child-led exploration and play, sometimes you just need an adult to step in to spark interest or keep that fire burning. That's where I come in. I bring my extensive naturalist and early childhood knowledge to bring you what you need to foster nature connection at home - no matter the age of your budding naturalist.
As I make this transition back to supporting community nature connection, I want to focus on YOU. How can I help you feel more confident learning and exploring with your children outdoors? What do you need to formally or informally guide your children in nature play? Whether you are a homeschooling family, a parent or caregiver with young children, or someone who simply wants to build their own connection to nature - I am here for you.
Stay tuned in for activity and experience ideas, resources to enhance learning and exploration, product reviews, DIY guides for materials, and so much more. And, follow along as I share about my own journey in raising a budding naturalist.
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I'll see you outside,
Emily