Our Team

Sensory Garden & Play is part of a revolution in our education system; the idea that a preschooler is able to learn about weather, trees, and nature beyond a pile of worksheets within four walls. It is meant to cultivate their understanding about nature by actually experiencing it, first-hand, and developing a deeper connection to their natural environment, all while playing!

Chantel

Creator & Founder

Chantel has been teaching since 2007. Her career began in the Newark school system as a 6th grade middle school science teacher and then, in 2014, she had the privilege of working for the Ringwood School District for three years as a third grade teacher. Both experiences gave her the confidence, knowledge and perspective to create a program of her very own.

Sensory Garden and Play evolved deep within her heart as she raised her twin daughters. Her philosophy and foundation for establishing Sensory Garden and Play was not centered around a business model. It 'bloomed' from her own heart's intentions and desires for her children's education as well as the education of the community SGP serves.

Jennifer

Jennifer’s journey reflects the transformative power of nature and the endless capacity for learning and growth that it offers. Born with a curiosity for the world around her, Jennifer has nurtured her passion for the outdoors into a life dedicated to teaching and connecting with both young minds and the wonders of the natural world.

Hailing from various corners of the United States - New Jersey, Florida, and Connecticut - Jennifer's experiences have been as diverse as the landscapes she's encountered. A devoted wife to Doug and mother to Kody, a spirited 4-year-old, Jennifer has embraced the role of a stay-at-home mom, following a career as a massage therapist. As an educator at Sensory Garden and Play (SGP), Jennifer is a beacon of inspiration for the youngest learners – the Sprouts and Saplings. Her work is defined by a dedication to sharing the magic of nature's wonders with children, allowing them to experience the joy of discovery firsthand.

Jennifer's thirst for knowledge and connection extends to her own journey of learning. As an educator, mother, and explorer, she embodies the spirit of wonder and connection that resides within all of us. Her dedication to creating a brighter, greener future and her unwavering love for the outdoors remind us of the beauty that surrounds us and the potential for growth that lies ahead.

Lauren

A dedicated educator and nature enthusiast, Lauren’s journey has been marked by a deep passion for the outdoors and a commitment to fostering curiosity and growth in young minds. From her childhood dreams of athletic prowess, to her current role as an educator at SGP, Lauren's life has been guided by her love for movement, exploration, and the natural world.

Lauren's diverse educational journey extends from teaching Health and Physical Education to K-2 students in Paterson, to nannying for flexibility and family time, and now contributing her expertise to SGP's outdoor education programs and a homeschool co-op.  Married to Tim, a fellow educator, the two share a mutual passion for teaching and the outdoors. Together, they nurture the growth of their two children, Olivia and Jackson, while embracing the joys of parenthood and learning. Within SGP, Lauren's heart resonates with the 4-year-old "Sprouts." She finds joy in guiding their growing independence, channeling their boundless energy, and nurturing their insatiable curiosity about the world around them.

Lauren is driven by her passions, including learning through play, self-directed education, varied teaching philosophies, respectful parenting, and holistic well-being. Her life revolves around exploring these facets in both her personal and professional spheres.

Maria

Hailing from western Massachusetts, Maria brings her 16 years of experience as a public school teacher and her love for the great outdoors to Sensory Garden & Play. As a passionate nature-based educator, she revels in watching children take risks, develop independence, and engage in hands-on learning in the outdoor classroom. Maria believes that immersing oneself in nature benefits learners of all ages, engaging all senses and promoting positive growth.

Beyond teaching, Maria is an adventurous soul who trail runs, hikes, snowboards, and paddleboards her way through the Northeast. She's even conquered ultramarathons over 100 miles long! When not exploring the wilderness, Maria expands her own skills through outdoor survivalist courses and nature-based teacher certifications. She also volunteers with Special Olympics New Jersey.

With a heart full of joy and a love for autumn's beauty, Maria can't wait to support SGP's curious and resilient children in their learning journey while sharing her own discoveries in the natural world.

Justine

Justine is an outdoor educator who loves adventure and new experiences. Born and raised in Lyndhurst, New Jersey, she always enjoyed being outdoors as a child. Her favorite travel destination is Boulder, Colorado for its stunning natural landscapes. Justine currently lives in New Jersey with her girlfriend Krista and two family dogs named Marco and Ruby. 

As an outdoor educator at SGP, Justine teaches the younger Saplings and Sprouts students. She loves watching them play freely and tap into their limitless imaginations. Prior to teaching, Justine worked as a real estate agent. In her free time, you can find Justine exploring new places, spending time with family, and seeking out new adventures - especially ones involving water. She is passionate about helping others, volunteering, and supporting those recovering from addiction.

Justine is always learning something new about nature. Currently she is learning tree and insect identification. In the future, she hopes to further her knowledge of primitive survival skills like tool making. 

Caitlin

Caitlin is a mom to two girls and wife to Kirill. She spends her weekends and any free time seeking out new outdoor spaces to explore and hiking as many trails as possible throughout the year.

Her and her husband have over 15 years hiking/camping experience; having hiked the Half Dome in Yosemite National Park, Angels Landing in Zion, as well as the Cape Breton Highlands trails in Nova Scotia. They have also backcountry camped in Bryce National Park as well as completed the Rim to Rim in Grand Canyon.

Bringing her love of the outdoors to SGP allows her the ability to share her fascination with all things in nature—from the change that comes from each season to all of the animals, reptiles and plants.