The Teachers

Heather discovered her love of childcare at age sixteen, when her little sister was born. Since then she's nurtured and grown this interest with classes in child development and child psychology at PennState, Bloomsburg University, and Sunbridge, and by attending seminars, and reading whatever she can on the subject. She's gained professional experience by working at daycare centers, Children's Discovery Centers, and as a Middle School teacher for students that needed special attention. She was finally able to realize her dream of running her own childhood education program when we moved to the Ithaca/Danby area and opened Magical Garden in 2004. She is also the mother of four beautiful children of her own.

I love exploring the world of plants and animals and their relationships and sharing that discovery with the children. Every day in the garden presents something new and fascinating. I'm happiest when I see the kids forming a healthy emotional attachment to and learning to care for and appreciate the living things that they encounter. I also enjoy sharing songs and stories and visual arts with the kids and coaching them through the communication challenges that might arise.