We, Mary and Masoud,share a deep-rooted passion for
understanding human behavior and the wonders of nature. Our
journey began with a mutual fascination that led us to study
psychology. After years of dedicated work with children with
special needs, we envisioned blending our two passions,
recognizing the profound impact nature could have on these
children's lives beyond the confines of traditional therapy
settings.
Our brainchild, the "Roots and Tales Nature-Based Program,"
blossomed from this vision. We recognized the challenges
special-needs children face when confronted with the sensory
overload of nature, as well as the potential benefits of
breaking free from the structured environments of schools and
therapy rooms. Thus, we set out to create a program that would
provide a structured yet flexible environment, empowering
children to explore nature while maintaining a sense of control
and safety. Roots and Tales is where nature meets therapy in a
transformative journey of growth and discovery. Through years of
studying psychology and working with children with special
needs, we've crafted a program that seamlessly integrates the
benefits of both realms. Our goal is to provide a structured yet
immersive experience where children can thrive, regardless of
their challenges.
It's important to recognize that as parents, we can sometimes
feel stressed and overwhelmed, leading us to believe that more
therapy or structured activities are always better for our
children, especially those with special needs. However, it's
crucial to remember that children also need unstructured
playtime and exposure to nature for their overall development.
Play and outdoor experiences offer invaluable opportunities for
creativity, socialization, and emotional well-being, which can
sometimes be overlooked in a busy schedule of therapies and
classes. Balancing structured interventions with free play in
natural settings allows children to thrive both academically and
emotionally, nurturing their happiness and resilience alongside
their therapeutic progress.
At the heart of our program lies a commitment to providing a
transformative summer camp experience for children with special
needs. From learning disabilities to developmental delays,
including autism, Asperger's, ADHD, and anxiety, every camper is
welcomed into a nurturing environment where they can create
cherished memories and discover their potential. Our Summer Camp
for Campers with Special Needs is a haven of acceptance and
camaraderie. Here, children facing various challenges come
together to create cherished memories and lasting friendships in
a supportive natural environment.
With a team of dedicated staff trained in mental health, we act
as mentors and guides, ensuring each child receives personalized
support. Our approach integrates therapeutic and educational
goals to empower children to reach their full potential,
fostering language development, socialization, play development
and independence. We emphasize skills such as gross motor
development, self-care, following instructions, and behavior
regulation, aiming for holistic growth and empowerment.
For teenagers, we offer a unique opportunity to explore
nature-based job positions aligned with their interests and
developmental needs. Whether it's gardening, working with
children, or coaching sports, our carefully curated roles aim to
boost self-confidence and prepare teens for the challenges of
adulthood. By offering these meaningful activities, we seek to
nurture self-confidence and prepare teenagers for the realities
of the adult world. Through our combined expertise and passion,
we offer a transformative experience that merges the therapeutic
benefits of nature with a deep understanding of human behavior,
fostering an environment where every child can flourish.