Support Nature Education
Growing Youth Who Are Strong in Spirit, Rooted in Nature and Committed to Community.
"If we want children to flourish, to become truly empowered, then let us allow them to love the earth before we ask them to save it. Perhaps this is what Thoreau had in mind when he said, 'the more slowly trees grow at first, the sounder they are at the core, and I think the same is true of human beings.'"
- David Sobel
A healthier planet begins with an education rooted in nature. At Merrohawke, we believe that when children spend time learning in the forest and along the shore, they develop a deep respect for the natural world—and for themselves. Through immersive outdoor experiences, we nurture confidence, compassion, and a lifelong connection to community and Earth.
Our nature-based programs offer more than academics. They foster curiosity, creativity, and calm—all vital tools in today's world. With an approach grounded in Waldorf education and nature connection, we help raise children who lead with empathy and integrity.
Summer 2026
Registration opens online at 6 a.m. on November 7, 2025.
Early Childhood:
Forest Kindergarten
For ages 2.9-5, Forest Kindergarten is a Waldorf-inspired outdoor preschool program.
Homeschool:
Forest & Field School
For homeschooled children ages 6 to 14+ who attend once or twice per week for the school year.
Vision
Strong Kids. Healthy planet. It is our vision that every child will grow into an adult able and committed to better our world.
Mission
Merrohawke Nature School is a 501(c)3 nonprofit committed to guiding learning in nature that inspires empathy, resilience, grit and a deep connection to the earth.
We work 100% outdoors because we believe this is the best classroom for personal growth, and it just so happens that through direct experience on land and at sea, youth develop a profound love and respect for nature that will stay with them throughout their lives and motivate them to be stewards of the environment.
By the Numbers
During the school year, upwards of 95 homeschooled children attend Forest School (ages 6-8) or Field School (ages 9-14) one or two days/week, September through May, and 20 children (aged 2.9 to 5) attend Merrohawke's Forest Kindergarten, an all-outdoor, nature-based, Waldorf-inspired early childhood preschool licensed by the Mass. Department of Early Education and Care.
Children and families served live in cities and towns widely spread across Essex and Middlesex counties, including Cape Ann and the lower Merrimack Valley.
During the summer, Merrohawke serves upwards of 475 Essex County area children, aged 3- to teens, who attend summer camp in Boxford and/or B.O.A.T. C.A.M.P. in Newburyport.
Thanks to the generosity of Merrohawke's philanthropic supporters, no child who wished to attend but lacked the funds to do so has ever been turned away. It is our commitment that, so long as we have the capacity, all youth may grow strong by nature at Merrohawke. We invite your support here.
Did you see us on Chronicle in 2023? Watch it here!
Merrohawke is Sponsored by
