Camp Hill woman incorporates nature into education for children

Hannah Harner

Business Name: Rooted in Nature

Years in business: 4 years

Location: Camp Hill

Contact: rootedinnaturelearning.com

Q: Why did you want to start this kind of business?

A: Being a former educator, I recognized the importance of outdoor play and early childhood development and wanted to create an experience that fostered those elements. Outdoor play is crucial for children’s development. There are several benefits to enjoying the outdoors including physical health, cognitive skills and social-emotional well-being. Rooted in Nature’s unique curriculum focuses on play-based learning. We achieve this by encouraging children to explore, experiment, collaborate and learn through hands-on activities in a natural, safe environment.

Q: How did you get your start?

A: We launched Rooted in Nature with the support of family and friends, plus vigorous local advertising. I began offering outdoor classes in the fall of 2022.

Q: What does your business sell or provide?

A: At Rooted in Nature, we offer creative, outdoor classes for children ages 2-6 and their caregiver. During our classes, the children engage in creative nature-based play both individually and with other children their age.

Q: What is the biggest challenge you are facing right now?

A: The biggest challenge I face with owning a small business is being visible to targeted customers and scaling my business up.

Q: What is your favorite thing to do or place in Cumberland County?

A: We love everything outdoors. Our favorite thing to do around Cumberland County is to discover new parks, hiking trails and take advantage of all the wonderful green space in the surrounding areas. We enjoy hiking Pole Steeple, visiting Boiling Springs Children’s Lake or just walking along the Conodoguinet Creek.