About me
A lifelong learner with a heart for childhood and a love of the natural world.
Care • Creativity • Curiosity • Connection
Get to know Melissa
I'm a mother of four, a lifelong learner, a lover of good books and wild places, and someone who has never quite outgrown the desire to figure out how things work.
Raising and homeschooling my four children has shaped much of my life. Our days have been filled with books piled high, science experiments at the kitchen table, homemade bread, art supplies scattered everywhere, and plenty of time outdoors. Some of our best lessons happened far from a desk—on woodland trails, around a campfire, or in the middle of an unexpected conversation.
My interests have taken me in quite a few directions over the years. I love the precision of mathematics and science just as much as the beauty of photography, traditional handwork, and seasonal celebrations. I'm equally happy exploring a new hiking trail, teaching someone to knit, solving a tricky logic puzzle, or getting lost in a really good book. To me, these aren't unrelated interests—they're all different ways of paying attention to the world.
My interests have taken me in quite a few directions over the years. I love the precision of mathematics and science just as much as the beauty of photography, traditional handwork, and seasonal celebrations. I'm equally happy exploring a new hiking trail, teaching someone to knit, solving a tricky logic puzzle, or getting lost in a really good book. To me, these aren't unrelated interests—they're all different ways of paying attention to the world.
These days, I'm bringing together the many threads of my life—family, education, nature, art, and a love of learning—in ways that allow me to share what I enjoy most with others.
At heart, I'm someone who believes that a rich life is built from ordinary days lived thoughtfully, with a little adventure whenever possible.
What I believe
Childhood is not a race
Children deserve time to unfold at their own pace — not to be rushed toward the next milestone, but to be fully present in this one.
Nature is the best classroom
Mud, sticks, rain, and wonder. The outdoors offers lessons no curriculum can replicate, and I bring children outside as often as possible.
Rhythm creates safety
Predictable rhythms — daily, weekly, seasonal — give children a sense of security and belonging that frees them to explore and grow.
Hands-on learning sticks
Whether it's kneading bread, knitting a row, or building a dam in a stream, children learn best when their whole body is involved.
Stories shape us
Great literature, folk tales, and oral storytelling are among the most powerful gifts we can give a child. I read aloud every chance I get.
Presence is the practice
The most important thing I bring to any child is my full, unhurried attention. Being truly seen is what every child needs most.
My approach
Both the Waldorf and Montessori philosophies share a deep respect for the child as a whole person, not just a mind to be filled, but a spirit to be nurtured. Waldorf brings rhythm, beauty, seasonal celebration, handwork, and the arts. Montessori brings independence, real-world materials, self-directed learning, and a prepared environment that says, "you are capable."
My passions
Beyond my love of children, here are a few things that fill my cup and often find their way into the work I do with families.
Hiking & Camping
There's nothing like a trail through the woods to reset the soul. I love a good wander in the forest, multi-day backpacking trips, car camping with my kids, and any excuse to sleep under the stars.
Knitting & Crochet
There's something deeply meditative about working with your hands, and it's one of the first crafts I love to share with children.
Baking
Sourdough bread, decorative seasonal pies, and whimsical cakes. The kitchen is one of my favorite classrooms!
Reading
From nature writing and folk tales to philosophy and children's literature, reading is how I stay curious and connected to the wider world.
Board Games
Strategy, logic, storytelling: board games have it all! I love introducing children to games that stretch their thinking, and I'm always up for a game night with friends.
Science
I'm fascinated by the natural world and love learning about physics, ecology, astronomy, botany, and the small wonders hiding in a handful of soil and sharing that wonder with the children I work with.