The Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce welcomed a new member, Nature Connect School, with a ribbon cutting. The Nature Connect mission is to cultivate curiosity, compassion, and connection with the natural world. In a time where computer and cell phone use is so prevalent, we believe it’s important to get kids unplugged from technology and reconnected with the natural world.
Studies show that time spent in nature increases attention span, ability to concentrate, self- esteem, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Children who spend more time outdoors and participate in cooperative group activities also have healthier relationships with friends and family.
Our vision is to support children to develop an appreciation for each other and the natural world, so that they grow into dedicated leaders and environmental stewards in their communities. Our programs include exploring outdoors, animal tracking, nature & sensory awareness, storytelling, local plant and animal study, mentorship, empowerment, primitive skills & crafts, and lots of fun and play!
The Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce Communications Director, Joanna Almond, asked one mom what she loved about Nature Connect School, and she said, "What's not to love. It's the freedom he has to thrive in nature but at the same time he is learning important core values. We've loved it here."
The vision for Nature Connect formed when Brinkley Hutchings, who spent her childhood outside in Baldwin County, wondered, “who is going to preserve the land and keep the air and water clean if children don’t have a connection to the outdoors?”
In 2017 Brinkley moved home and launched the Alabama chapter. Nature Connect School in Fairhope offers preschool, kindergarten, homeschool enrichment, and camps. The school has grown to serve over 600 families each year in Baldwin County.
The community’s response was overwhelmingly positive with an 86% participant return rate and since then, the programs have more than doubled in size and duration. Nature Connect NC now serves over 50 families and offers year round programs.
In 2017 Brinkley moved home and launched Nature Connect Alabama with a week-long summer camp and a series of weekly programs in the fall. Nature Connect Alabama currently serves families in Baldwin and Mobile counties.
