Forest Pre-School Drop-off Programs!

​​Spring Session #1: ​March 16-April 27  | Spring Session #2: May 4-June 15

7-Week Sessions, Option for 1 or 2 days per week

• 9:30am - 12:30pm
  
• Ages 3 1/2 - 6
• Sibling Discounts
  

Spring Session #1

• Seeds: Compare seeds, texture and the germination process; investigate which seeds can grow together; explore viability of seeds before planting.
  
• The importance of water, soil and sun for plant growth: The importance of sunlight; examining the soil quality and nutrients; explore hydroponics.
  
• Sustaining a garden: How to space seeds in a garden; observe and draw changes in the garden; understand the root system vs the shoot system.
  

Spring Session #2

• Lifecycle of a butterfly: Examine the four stages of the butterfly cycle; develop an understanding of butterflies; create a butterfly garden.
  
• The importance of bees: Learn about pollination and the important role bees play in our environment.
  
• Gardening: Observing the growth in our garden over time; maintenance and upkeep; make hypotheses on early germination experiments.

Prices and registration will be posted by January 20th.

Rave Reviews & Recommendations for Sensory Garden and Play!*

Monica Ozden:  Amazing & unique approach to learning! Chantel is so creative, passionate & patient! Her love of learning & nature create a nurturing environment for the children to learn & explore (and get a little dirty!) Wonderful class, can’t wait to sign up for another. Thanks Chantel"

Jennifer Nicole:  "My son LOVES this class! He’s excited to explore nature and looks forward to going weekly. He comes home proud of himself & I’m thankful for a safe, fun outlet for him to get dirty and hands on while learning. Ms. Chantel is warm & energetic. We will definitely be signing up for future programs!"

Jennifer Droubi:  "This program is excellent! My son thrived and it was wonderful to see the progress he made and his excitement for learning each session!"

Heidi Young Rucki:  "Such an incredible program! Chantel is a wonderful teacher who clearly loves what she teaches. This is such a special class that all children should have the opportunity to enjoy."

Brandi Portscher:  "Such a fun time on the book walk!!! I love that my boys can learn, explore, and grow in nature. Today was our first time joining in this program and I was so impressed and look forward to returning. I asked my boys if they had fun and the response I got says it all ”Mom that was Awesome”!"

*Recommendations have been publicly posted on Sensory Garden and Play's Facebook page

“Adventurous experiences out-of-doors are perceived to kindle the enthusiasm of the young, to develop their concern for others, for their community and for the environment. Such experiences provide the means of self-discovery, self-expression and enjoyment, which are at once both stimulating and fulfilling."

~ Lord Hunt of Llanfair Waterdine

Sensory Garden and Play

Founded by Chantel Zimmerman

The New Weis Center is excited to announce a NEW program partnership with Sensory Garden and Play, founded by Chantel Zimmerman!

Following a very well received pilot program at our Center this fall (morning programs and a story walk) Chantel will now be offering her unique forest school programs for pre-K and K regularly at our center, beginning with a 4-day winter camp and continuing with several programs in 2021 (multi-session and single day programs). Stay tuned for updates and details coming soon!​

Sensory Garden and Play's Founder Chantel Zimmerman has been teaching since 2007. Her career began in the Newark school system as a 6th grade middle school science teacher, and continued as a 3rd grade teacher in the Ringwood School District for three years, beginning in 2014. Both experiences gave her the confidence, knowledge and perspective to create a program of her own.

Chantel says: "Sensory Garden and Play evolved deep within my heart as I raised my twin daughters. My philosophy and foundation for establishing  it was not centered around a business model. It 'bloomed' from my own heart's intentions and desires for my children's education, as well as the education of the community I serve. Sensory Garden and Play is part of a revolution in our education system; the idea that a preschooler is able to learn about weather, trees, and nature beyond a pile of worksheets within four walls. It is meant to cultivate their understanding about nature by actually experiencing it, first-hand, and developing a deeper connection to their natural environment, all while playing!"

Contact Ms. Zimmerman:

Phone: 201-213-4072  |  Email: sensorygardenandplay@gmail.com  |  ​Facebook: @sensorygardenandplay