El Nido (the nest) nature school

Bienvenidos al nido! Welcome to the nest!

The nest is a place where all kids will be celebrated and accepted. It is a brand new endeavor, inspired by my son Leonides and my experience working in public education.

Leo is a wild child in every form. He loves challenging his body physically, loves to take risks, loves the outdoors, and has a hard time sitting still much of the time. Through my experience teaching kids and mothering him, I have done a ton of child development research to help me figure out ways to best support him in his growth and early education. When observing other kids, he is often different than the rest in many ways, which is amazing, but also holds my curiosity. Through the last 4 years since he was born, I have learned SO much (that was never taught in my Master’s degree) about the benefits of risky play, the needs of boys vs girls in early childhood, the countless benefits of being outdoors and in nature as much as possible, and learning naturally through play.

My husband Juan and I have also spoken only Spanish to Leo since birth in order to help him be bilingual for (hopefully) life. He is now learning English, and I thought what better way to teach him English than to have Spanglish outdoor playgroups! English speakers can learn some Spanish, and Leo can learn some English all while playing on our safe, fun, nature-rich corner of the Palouse.

I have many more ideas for our space as we experiment with what the locals are interested in, and as I gain more education and certifications. Homeschool groups, tutoring, risky play sessions, after-school groups, respite care, you name it. I have taught kids in every age group, as well as adults, and would love to invite other ages besides just preschool in the future if it works.

If you have any questions or interests in your little one learning some Spanish, please feel free to email me at Lngarcia206@gmail.com!