The Nature Nest
A cozy and compassionate place for nature-centered learning, art, and exploration.
-homeschool evaluations
-homeschool enrichment
-field trips, clubs, & pop-up classes
-exploration of wild spaces
"those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts." -Rachel Carson
Hi. I'm Heather.
Welcome to The Nature Nest. I am so glad you are here. I call this space The Nature Nest because it is a cozy, compassionate, and welcoming environment in which we can learn and grow together, while fostering a connection to the natural world and each other.
I have a B.A. in Sociology with a focus in Early Childhood Education and a M.Ed in Environmental Based Education and Authentic Learning and Leadership. I am certified in Social and Emotional Learning and have received training in Mindfulness for the Educator, Nature Journaling, Indigenous Resources for Elementary Years, Sit Spots, and more. More importantly, I am a homeschooling Mama of three kids in the Waynesboro area, nestled under the Blue Ridge Mountains with our three dogs, black cat, and a rescue bunny. Our lives and learning are centered around a love for nature, local wild spaces, and flowing with the rhythm of the seasons. I also love to laugh and be a big kid, drink way too much coffee and tea, and love cooking and making messes. I am so excited to work and create with all of you!
-H
Homeschool Consultation and Evaluation Services
***Now booking for 2025-2026 Proof of Progress***
As a homeschooling/unschooling Mama of three, I truly believe that learning can happen anywhere. I obtained my M.Ed in Environmental-Based Education from Mary Baldwin University, where I focused on nature-based, project-based, and other authentic learning practices. I believe in meeting a child right where they are and allowing them to explore what interests them and ignites learning in their world. This could be as simple as following a workbook or as wild and free as spending each day in the great outdoors. Authentic learning can happen in the kitchen cooking with family, at the park observing birds and trees, in your yard growing plants and watching insects, at the library researching topics and interests, while playing games and figuring out the next challenge or skill, or in your community interacting with others. It happens while we are simply living. Life is learning. Life is our classroom.
An evaluation with me is meant to be an easy and peaceful experience for both your child and you. Before the evaluation, I will send you an email with a few questions about your homeschool rhythm and your child. This will help me learn a little about you beforehand and help the process go as smoothly as possible. The actual evaluation will not take longer than 30 minutes. During this time, your child will be able to show me some of their work or passions while we chat about what they love about learning. I will also be available to answer your questions and help with resources if needed. Afterwards your will receive an email with your proof of progress and any other helpful information. You will be responsible for submitting the proof of progress letter.
This is an inclusive service, and all are welcome! This can be done in-person or virtually.
Cost is $50 & $30 for each additional child.
*Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns you might have.
You can schedule an evaluation here.
Classes, Clubs, & Field Trips
Photography Field Trip/Pop Up Class
Ages 6-12 & 12-18 (Can be split differently or combined to fit your needs)
Cost $60
12 kids max ($5 for each additional child after that.)
1.5 hours
This is a one time class where I bring the photography workshop to you! We will use the natural surroundings at your homeschool co-op, group, classroom, school, or other agreed upon location to learn the basics of natural light photography.
In this class we will:
-Learn about different types of photography and photographers.
-Introduce and discuss the basics of photography.
-Enjoy a nature walk where we get to test out our new skills and learn from each other.
-Share a photo you have taken.
-End with a quick review and encouragement.
*Any type of camera will work for this class, film, smartphone, digital, etc. I only ask that you use something that allows you to turn off the flash.
I have been a professional photographer for over 15 years and I am so excited to share what I have learned with your kids! Please let me know if you have any questions and if you are interested in signing up, please use the contact form or email me at wildheathergrowshere@gmail.com.
