Core Values

Joyful Learning: We view learning as a joyful, lifelong journey fueled by wonder, curiosity, and meaningful play. Children learn best when they feel engaged, capable, and inspired--free to explore ideas, take risks, and follow their interests.

Connection to Nature: Nature is a powerful teacher. Our days are spent immersed in the seasons weather, elements, and land around us--supporting creativity, resilience, and a strong, grounded sense of self.

Whole-Child Wellbeing: We care for the whole child by supporting physical, emotional, energetic, and creative development. We believe meaningful learning grows from regulated nervous systems, supportive relationships, and a steady rhythm that allows children to feel safe, connected and ready to engage.

Who we serve

Rooted Grove Collective serves children who thrive in a nature-immersed, relationship-centered learning environment rooted in curiosity, creativity, and emotional wellbeing. Our mixed-age community supports collaboration, confidence, and hands-on exploration.

We welcome families seeking a slower, more intentional alternative to conventional schooling--especially mothers who value community, flexibility, and sustainable rhythms.

At Rooted Grove, children spend their mornings outdoors with trusted guides, while mothers are supported with space to work, rest, or create--knowing their child is held in a nurturing, connected community.

As your family's rhythm evolves, Rooted Grove grows alongside you--offering a place to root deeply, grow gently, and build the village you've been craving.

Where we are located

Springfield, Nebraska

(20 minutes from Omaha)

Logistics

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday — 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM (Year-round)
No required facilitation or leading from parents
A caregiver must be onsite at least 1 day per week (free to work, rest, or connect during this time)

Meet our Facilitators

A facilitator at Rooted Grove Collective is a gentle guide who nurtures curiosity, creativity, and connection. They hold space for children to learn through play, nature, and relationship—following their lead rather than directing.

Facilitators model calm, kindness, and respect for the earth while helping each child feel seen, valued, and free to grow at their own pace. They support both children and parents through open communication, collaboration, and a grounded, heart-centered presence.

Facilitator

Carrie Nunez

Carrie brings a lifelong passion for the natural world and years of experience in environmental education to her role at Rooted Grove Collective. As a mother of four and grandmother of one, she believes the most meaningful gifts we can give children are time outdoors and a lasting connection with nature.

Her career has always centered around nurturing curiosity and care for the earth. Carrie has served as Education Program Coordinator for the Wildlife Safari Park in Ashland, Nebraska, is a Nebraska Master Naturalist, and has volunteered with both the Raptor Conservation Alliance and Wildlife Rescue Team as a wildlife rehabilitator.

Outside of Rooted Grove, Carrie can often be found hiking, kayaking, creek walking, mushroom hunting, bird watching, or capturing nature’s beauty through photography. At RGC, she creates space for open-ended play, imagination, creativity, and confidence—encouraging children to grow through their connection to the natural world.

Facilitator

Nichole Beiermann

Nichole brings a rich background in education and holistic child development to Rooted Grove Collective. She holds a degree in Elementary Special Education and Early Childhood training with an emphasis on the Montessori Method and Positive Discipline. Her approach blends creativity, practicality, and a deep respect for each child’s natural curiosity—encouraging them to take the lead in their own learning.

A lifelong nature lover, Nichole enjoys spending time outdoors with her dog, hiking, and exploring the natural world. Her passion for holistic well-being extends beyond education—she maintains a regular yoga and meditation practice and holds certifications in various forms of energy work.

Fun fact: Nichole once spent a summer as a ranch hand on an organic farm, where she learned plenty about caring for pigs and chickens!

Assistant Facilitator

Liana Nunez

Liana grew up immersed in nature and hands-on learning as a homeschooled child, which inspired her deep love for exploration, creativity, and child-led discovery. Now, as part of Rooted Grove Collective, she brings that same sense of wonder and connection to the youngest members of our community.

With a gentle and nurturing presence, Liana holds space for our littles (ages 2 and under) to feel safe, curious, and free to explore at their own pace.

What makes us unique

At Rooted Grove Collective, learning unfolds through presence, play, and connection. Our approach honors the whole child and the natural rhythm of the day — letting curiosity lead the way.
We offer invitations, not instructions. Children are trusted to follow their interests, explore freely, and lead their own learning journeys.
We protect long stretches of open-ended time so imagination, problem-solving, and meaningful play can take root.
Our facilitators guide from the side--observing, reflecting and supporting curiosity rather than directing outcomes.
We honor process over product. The joy of discovery matters more than results or outcomes.
We let nature be the teacher. The wind, the soil, the changing sky — these are our true classrooms.
We gather in circle. Songs, stories, and sharing strengthen our sense of community and connection.
We keep transitions gentle and child-paced, following the natural rhythm of the group for snacks, rest, and stories.

Rooted Grove isn’t a program to complete — it’s a way of being: slow, connected, and rooted in wonder.