“Nurtured In Nature,” An Immersive Outdoor After-School Program For K–5 Students, Returns To Pitney Meadows Community Farm!
Pitney Meadows Community Farm is excited to welcome a new year of Nurtured in Nature, an immersive after-school program that invites K–5 students to explore the rhythm of nature through hands-on science and mindfulness activities right here in the living classroom of our community farm.
Could your child benefit from a healthy dose of nature? Of course… we all could!
Fall 2025 Grades 3-5 Registration
Spring 2026 Grades 3-5 Registration
Nurtured in Nature meets weekly on Wednesdays for hour-long sessions led by dynamic instructors Leah (Lanci) and Andrew Ferrone. Rooted in seasonal cycles and sensory exploration, the program alternates between nature-based science and nature-based mindfulness, allowing students to connect with the land while nurturing curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, and emotional well-being. Fall and spring sessions are divided by age group, with dedicated weeks for K–2 students and separate weeks for grades 3–5, ensuring activities are developmentally appropriate and engaging for every learner. A culminating Seasonal Celebration brings both groups together to reflect, explore, and share in community.
Nestled under the farm’s Explore to Learn Program umbrella, students will embark on an enriching journey, exploring the rhythm of nature through the distinct seasons of upstate New York, right here in the living classroom of Pitney Meadows Community Farm. This program offers a unique opportunity for children to immerse themselves in the natural environment, promoting curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, and overall well-being.
Fall 2025 Sessions:
Wednesdays, 4:30pm–5:30pm at Pitney Meadows Community Farm
- K–2 Session: September 17th – October 8th
- Grades 3–5 Session: October 22nd – November 12th
Fall Celebration for All Ages: Wednesday, November 19, 2025, 4:30pm-5:30pm
Spring 2026 Sessions:
Wednesdays, 4:30pm–5:30pm at Pitney Meadows Community Farm
- K–2 Session: March 4th – March 25th
- Grades 3–5 Session: April 15th – May 6th
Spring Celebration for All Ages: Wednesday, May 13th, 2026, 4:30pm-5:30pm
For the most enriching experience, we recommend that students enroll in both the fall and spring sessions for their age group. While not required, participating in both seasons allows students to witness and engage with the full arc of nature’s changes over time.
Each session draws inspiration from the seasons, encouraging students to explore the farm through a rotating blend of science and mindfulness-based activities. Whether they’re tracking animal signs, tuning into the quiet sounds of the woods, learning about local trees, or simply pausing to “take five” in nature, students will engage in experiences that foster curiosity, confidence, self-awareness, and a deeper connection to the natural world. Themes may shift with the seasons, but at the heart of every lesson is the goal of helping children feel grounded, observant, and at home in nature.
"The program was wonderful, educational, and exciting,” says a parent of a 2024 Nurtured in Nature participant. “It lived up to our expectations and we can't wait to do it again!”
Each session is carefully scaffolded to accommodate learners from K-5, ensuring that all students can participate fully and benefit from the program. At Pitney Meadows, our programs are designed to be inclusive and accessible, ensuring that kids of all abilities can participate fully and benefit from nature.
This program is generously supported by Deborah and Dexter Senft, who share our belief that children thrive when given the chance to learn and grow outdoors.
“Nurtured in Nature reflects what we believe at Pitney Meadows: that meaningful, lasting learning happens when children engage with the natural world around them,” said Executive Director Brooke McConnell. “With the guidance of Leah and Andrew, and the generosity of Deborah and Dexter Senft, we’ve created a program that invites kids into a deep relationship with this land… one that supports their growth, well-being, and sense of wonder. We’re proud to offer an experience that inspires not only connection with nature, but also care for it.”
Meet Our Instructors:
Andrew Ferrone brings nearly two decades of classroom experience, specializing in nature-based learning, technology, and social-emotional learning. His passion for nature has fueled many projects, including several published children's books and articles. Andrew lives in upstate New York with his family, where they spend as much time outdoors as possible.
"We developed this program with the goal of helping this generation of young people reconnect with nature, for the simple reason that nature is healthy. It’s healthy for the mind, for the body, and it’s healthy for the heart," says Andrew.
Leah (Lanci) Ferrone is a mindfulness and yoga instructor through her company Brave Lion. She offers neuroscience-based mindfulness programming rooted in movement and play to help children build confidence, resilience, and self-regulation. Leah incorporates nature-based mindfulness exploration in her lessons, recognizing the profound impact nature has on regulating the nervous system. Leah also lives in upstate New York with her family, where they regularly seek nature adventures.
"Pitney Meadows is the perfect location and partner to offer this unique experience. Together, we are going to discover, embrace and connect to the magic of nature's rhythm through the lens of upstate New York's distinct seasons - right here on the farm," says Leah.
New for 2025/2026: Educator Internship Opportunity
Pitney Meadows Community Farm is also excited to launch the inaugural Nurtured in Nature Facilitator Internship Program. We are seeking passionate, committed educators, certified public school teachers or teaching assistants, to join us in this immersive, hands-on training experience. The program is designed to equip educators with the tools and confidence to deliver nature-based, science-integrated, and social-emotional learning to K–5 students. Participants will learn directly alongside our lead instructors while engaging with students in a dynamic outdoor setting. Interns will receive a $2300 stipend. To learn more, visit www.pitneymeadows.org/work-with-us
Join us in this incredible opportunity for your child to blossom in nature. "Nurtured in Nature" is more than just a program; it’s a pathway to a deeper connection with the environment and one another. Spaces are limited, so register today to ensure your child’s spot in this transformative experience.