about Wild Hearts

When tiny humans follow their WILD HEARTS in nature, they learn and grow naturally.

Our Mission

At Wild Hearts Nature School, we are passionate about connecting children to an increased awareness of the natural world, themselves, and others. Through our programs, events, and camps, we empower children to explore and foster their innate sense of wonder.

Our Story

Our founder and director, Maggie Sandmann, shares a piece of her heart with us as she talks about the inspiration behind Wild Hearts Nature School: 

“The outdoors have always seemed to center me, but when I became a mother, my fascination and love for nature grew into something remarkable. I began to see things a bit differently and walk a bit slower. Experiencing life with my boys has brought my inner child to the surface. The past decade has been spent in the woods exploring and learning with my family, my boys, and kids of all ages. 

In 2018, when my mother-in-law, Thea, fulfilled her lifelong dream of having a nature school, my own life and perspective was altered. Thea and I have always bonded over our shared love for nature and children, and I have learned so much from her. Watching her open Into The Woods Nature School in Rutherford County was such a privilege. I was able to experience her school and see firsthand the endless joy that nature school brought (and continues to bring!) to her life, and witness the wonderful relationships she has made along the way. The special community of nature loving families there has inspired me to utilize my passion for nature and for community to start my very own nature school.

In 2023, I completed my Cedarsong Forest School Teacher training at Asheville Farmstead School. Throughout the program, I had the opportunity to learn from an experienced school director, participate in the daily happenings with students, and receive words of wisdom from the staff. I left feeling equipped and excited to begin!    

In addition to raising my two boys and running Wild Hearts Nature School, I also work part time with the horses at Ridge Haven Farm. When I look out at the wooded property from the pastures, I see a very special piece of the world that deserves to be cherished and allowed to stay wild. I’m excited to share this amazing piece of property with the next generation, to instill in them a deep love of nature and to help them cultivate a desire to steward this world well

“They’re not just playing in nature, they are: Learning, creating, sensing, believing, relaxing, exploring, observing, wondering, connecting, discovering, appreciating, understanding, experimenting…”
— Penny Whitehouse

Did you know?

Wild Hearts Nature School received the Platinum Award in the Children's Activities category of the “Concord - Community Votes 2024” awards!

We are incredibly proud of the nature-loving community and environment we are building here in Concord, where children can explore, learn, and grow in the great outdoors.
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WE believe

We believe that the role of children at this early stage is to experience the world through all of their senses, which allows them to maintain their sense of wonder and curiosity.

We believe that nature is the best environment for them to naturally put their senses to use. It also allows their wonder and curiosity to truly flourish, while becoming the tool that allows them to not only grow, but thrive in today’s ever changing world.

We believe that there are three teachers in a successful learning environment. The first teacher is the child, the second is the caretaker, and the third teacher is the environment.

I’d love to know more about

  • Our programs follow the principles of the forest kindergarten movement and embrace an authentic Forest School approach to education. Click here to read more about our educational philosophy.

  • Wild Hearts Nature School is excited to have relocated to Ridge Haven Farm in Concord as of Spring 2024. With over 100 wooded acres to explore, multiple streams, and a scenic Base Camp location, our new location has much to offer. Click here to read more about our location.

  • Our team puts the “heart” in Wild Hearts Nature School! Click here to meet our amazing staff.