Little Petals Garden Program
A nature-inspired learning experience designed to foster deep connections between children, caregivers, and the natural world.
Our Mission
Here at Little Petals Garden Program we believe children learn best by being immersed in nature, giving them the freedom to explore, create, and connect with the world around them in a meaningful and hands on way. With nature as our classroom, we will foster a unique learning experience through problem solving, craft making and friendship building led by a state certified elementary teacher.
Details
Ages
3-10 years
Choose Your 4-Week Session:
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Mondays: July 21 – August 11
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Wednesdays: July 23 – August 13
Time:
10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Location:
46000 Harris Rd., Belleville, MI
Investment:
$250 for a 4 week session
$70 for a drop in day
Caregivers participate too!
Our approach focuses on gentle guidance, open-ended play, and fostering a love for nature through interactive and engaging activities. And caregivers, this is for you too!
What To Expect
Each session is a blend of structured activities and free play, allowing children to interact with nature at their own pace. Through guided experiences and open-ended discovery, they’ll develop an appreciation of the garden and the small, magical moments happening all around them.
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Garden-led activities – Hands-on experiences that immerse little ones in the world of plants.
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Circle time – A gentle way to start each session with stories, songs, or nature discussions.
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Nature-based activities – Learning about pollinators, the life cycle of plants, and the magic of the natural world.
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Digging & sensory exploration – Little hands in the dirt, discovering textures, scents, and the wonders of soil.
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Free exploration & play – Time to follow their curiosity, observe, and connect with nature.
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Creative projects – Crafting with natural elements, encouraging imagination and creativity.
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Led by a certified teacher – Guided experiences to inspire learning through nature.
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A special caregiver moment – Caregiver will get a chance to make a DIY bouquet on the last program day while the little explorers finish their final nature craft!
Meet The Teacher
Hello, wonderful students and families!
My name is Mrs. Herring, and I am beyond excited to be teaming up with Piggly Petals to bring you and your child a one of a kind experience this summer! Here at Little Petals Garden Program, we utilize nature as our classroom to facilitate learning through creativity, hands on activities and student lead problem solving.
A Little More About Me
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I am a mom that believes learning as a family has life long benefits for children and caregivers
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I have a Bachelors degree in Elementary Education (K-5) and a Bachelors Degree in Special Education (K-12).
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I currently hold two current certifications for general and special education teaching in the state of Michigan.
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First aid and CPR certified with the red cross
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Teaching Professionally for the last 12 years
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Special education teacher in Ypsilanti for 5 years
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Proficient in ASL
Teaching Philosophy
As lead teacher at Little Petals Garden Program, I believe nature has all the tools we need to nurture children—intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically. Earth is a living classroom where curiosity thrives, creativity flourishes, and learning becomes a dynamic, hands-on experience.
I view my role as a guide and facilitator, helping children discover the world around them through exploration and inquiry. I believe that children learn best when they are actively engaged in their environment, using all their senses to observe, interact, and make connections to the natural world around them. Whether it’s through digging in dirt, observing insects, or creating art with materials found around the farm, every moment in nature offers a lesson in resilience, problem-solving, and collaboration.
In my classroom, learning is student-driven. I encourage students to ask questions, seek answers, and take ownership of their learning. I emphasize the importance of play and curiosity, as they are essential to building confidence, creativity, and a deep sense of wonder.By connecting children with the rhythms of nature, I aim to foster a lifelong appreciation for the environment and instill a sense of responsibility toward protecting it.
Little Petals Garden Program is a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment where all children will feel valued and respected. Nature provides opportunities for meaningful teamwork and social development, whether through cooperative games, group projects, or shared outdoor experiences. Through these interactions, children learn empathy, leadership, and the importance of community.
I am thrilled to be a part of this new and exciting program and look forward to meeting, teaching and enjoying the great out doors with you and your little explorer!
Why We Created This Program
Since becoming a mother, my love for teaching little ones has flourished. I found myself drawn to nature-based learning, the Reggio Emilia approach, and child-led exploration. Watching my own children outdoors with others, I witnessed the beauty of mixed-age learning—how older kids guide and younger ones observe, creating a unique learning dynamic that traditional classrooms often miss.
Beyond connecting with nature, I realized the importance of deep, nurturing relationships—between children and their caregivers, and among the children themselves. Learning is richer when shared, and including caregivers in this journey enhances the experience, making it more immersive and meaningful.
I have long dreamed of a space where little ones can explore the wonders of the garden, from the soil beneath their feet to the pollinator insects around them. Through this partnership with Sasha, our certified teacher, we are bringing this vision to life—creating a place where children can slow down, play freely, and connect deeply with both nature and their loved ones.
