Play
Explore Connect
At Wondernest, we use the Tinkergarten method of teaching to inspire joy and curiosity in families through nature-based play. We aim to foster growth, connection, and lifelong learning for children and families in Montclair/Bloomfield and surrounding areas of Northern New Jersey.
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At the core of Wondernest are weekly classes for children of all ages. We also have monthly community events, special partnerships, and much more.
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Come play with us!
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Spring Classes
After our looooong winter, spring is here! Celebrate with outdoor play for all ages: Tinker Babies for our youngest explorers, 9-weeks of Tinker Tots for kids 1.5-5 years, and 6-weeks of Tinkergarten on Saturday AM for families. Also, Wild Art classes are back on Wednesday afternoons - 6 weeks of nature-inspired process art.
Classes are filling up quickly - don't wait, and reserve your spot today! All classes begin the week of April 13.
Spring Essentials
I often get asked for recommendations on gear, play items, and where to buy some favorite Tinkergarten materials! Here are a few items that my family has personally used and loved for spring weather.
(Note: I receive a small commission on items purchased via these links - but there is no extra cost to you!)
Warmer weather means insects come out to play! These incense sticks help keep mosquitos at bay.
Great to have on hand in case of a close encounter with poison ivy. This removes the oils to prevent the itch.
Perfect for looking at tiny bugs! These are larger than what I use in class and what my own kids use at home.
Insulated Food Container
I always take snacks/meals on our family adventures, and being able to pack something warm is great! This one is a perfect kid-sized container.
You can use these to chase butterflies; my kids like to use them for dipping into rivers and creeks!
Our most often-requested link! Here's the bucket we use for class time and at-home play.
Wondernest Shop
Hi, I'm Miss Jen!
I'm Jen Caffrey, also known as Miss Jen! As a mom of three, former elementary school teacher and literacy specialist, and trained outdoor educator, I'm passionate about bringing rich outdoor play experiences to our community.
I have been in the field of education in different capacities my entire adult life. Before becoming an outdoor educator, I worked in NYC and NJ schools as a teacher (1st & 3rd grade) and a literacy coach for K-3. I am a certified elementary school teacher and I have a Masters as a Reading Specialist from Columbia University.
After teaching Tinkergarten outdoor play classes for over three years, I founded Wondernest Play, which uses the Tinkergarten curriculum and methods to bring play, learning, and nature together!​​
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Wondernest has many values, but these core values are at the heart of every class, event, and partnership.
About Wondernest
Wonder and Curiosity
We cultivate children’s innate desire to explore, imagine, and discover the world around them.
Growth and Development
We support children’s emotional, physical, and social development through playful, hands-on learning.
Community and Belonging
We celebrate what makes us all unique and ensure that every child and family feels valued and included.
Joy and Nature
We find the joy in learning and help children connect with the natural world.
Photos on this page were taken by Danielle Stio: https://daniellestiophotography.com/
Get in Touch
If you have questions about any of our classes, are interested in scheduling a private class, or have requests for collaborations, let me know!
