Meet Joanne: Your Guide to Nature & Wonder

 

Hello! I’m Joanne Hentnick, and I am the founder and lead educator of Our Playful Garden.

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I started Our Playful Garden because I believe in the power of collaboration between families and educators to provide children with truly outstanding, wonder-filled opportunities to learn.

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My Journey in Education

For more than 25 years, I served in the public school system in various roles, but my heart has always been in the earliest stages of development. My professional background is rooted in deep academic and practical experience:

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• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (Westfield State University)

• Master’s Degree in Technology Education (Lesley University)

• Licensed Educator & Principal: I hold Massachusetts professional licenses as an Early Childhood Teacher (Pre-K–Grade 3) and an Elementary Principal.

 

Life on the Farm

My connection to nature isn't just professional—it’s how I live. My husband Paul and I own a farm right here in Western Massachusetts. We share our home with our dog Max, a flock of chickens, and a deep appreciation for the land. We are the proud parents of two grown children who live nearby, and grandparents to two young boys, who keep us very busy!

 

Why "Our Playful Garden"?

In today’s fast-paced, digital world, it can be hard to find space for children to simply be. Research shows that unstructured “nature play” is vital for a child's health—improving physical activity, cognitive learning, language, and social-emotional development.

 

At Our Playful Garden, we offer:

• Professional Expertise: Quality programming led by knowledgeable, experienced educators.

• A Beautiful Setting: Lessons held in a serene, nature-inspired farm environment.

• Child-Led Learning: Activities driven by the natural curiosity of children, while supporting the individual educational goals you have for your child.

 

Throughout my life, one thing has always remained constant: my love for children. I enjoy talking, playing, and making discoveries about our world right alongside them. I can't wait to connect with you and your family to start our next adventure together!