About Into The Woods Nature School
Into the Woods Nature Preschool provides an entirely outdoor education program that is distinguished by its commitment to 100% outdoor time nature immersion, interest-led flow learning, emergent curriculum, inquiry-based teaching style and an emphasis on authentic play. We are located in Rutherford county North Carolina between Rutherfordton and Lake Lure.
Our program is designed to integrate children with nature and engage them in quality outdoor activities which is designed to emulate their innate curiosity about the natural world. Our teaching style encourages children to learn through direct experience with nature.
Friedrich Fröbel, a German educator, opened the world’s first outdoor kindergartens (children’s gardens), more than 50 years ago with the belief that young children should play in nature, away from an emphasis on too many numbers and letters.
Meet Founder/Head Teacher
Thea Gironda-Sandmann
Imagine a place where your child's curiosity is not only nurtured but celebrated. That’s the heart of Into The Woods Nature School—a dream come true, born from my lifelong love for both children and the great outdoors.
When a child notices an insect, spider, new plant, flower, or even some interesting rocks, I want their reaction to be one of excitement, curiosity, and respect—not fear. I strive to instill a love for the natural world around them. I want children to experience nature firsthand, not just through books. My goal is to help children develop a deep desire to learn more about the world they live in, along with the critters, creatures, and people they share it with. We should all understand that it’s ours to enjoy, protect, and cherish.
My journey began in the breathtaking landscapes of South Africa, where my father introduced me to the wonders of nature through frequent hikes. I remember the joy of wading in crystal-clear mountain streams, the thrill of discovering wild fruits, and the tranquility of wandering through pine forests. These experiences ignited a deep, abiding passion for nature that has stayed with me ever since.
From a young age, I found joy in caring for my younger siblings. Children have a unique way of seeing the world—filled with boundless curiosity and refreshing honesty. They keep our sense of wonder alive and remind us that joy and play are timeless. I believe children should be encouraged to play freely, without the expectation to perform, allowing them to experience the pure joy that comes with unhindered play.
This profound connection between children and nature led me to explore forest schools, a revolutionary approach to learning inspired by pioneers like Erin Kenny of Cedarsong Nature School. I was honored to receive my Cedarsong Way Teacher Training in 2017, just before Erin’s passing. The entire nature school movement inspires me to share this wonderful journey with as many little nature adventurers as possible.
