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"Look deep into nature,
and then you will
understand everything better."
-Albert Einstein
WORLD EDUCATION
The Gardenia Curriculum: Rooted in Nature, Nurtured by Heart, Designed for the Future.
The Gardenia Curriculum is a holistic, nature-based learning journey where curiosity, creativity, and emotional intelligence grow side by side. Each day invites children to explore the living world — observing Minnesota’s changing seasons, creating with natural materials, and learning through meaningful play that connects heart, mind, and earth.
Grounded in sensory-friendly design and evidence-based practices like Singapore Math, early literacy, and executive function development, Gardenia blends academic excellence with deep emotional grounding. Children learn to think critically, move mindfully, and express themselves with confidence — discovering that learning is everywhere, in every leaf, light beam, and conversation.
At Gardenia, education is rooted in nature, guided by love, and designed to prepare every child for a bright, balanced, and compassionate future.
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Serving ages 2.5 to 6 years.
Edwina Paffel
Founder & Educator
Edwina is the founder and heart behind Gardenia Childcare. With a background in design, early childhood education and years of international teaching experience, she envisioned Gardenia as more than a childcare program — a thoughtfully designed sanctuary where children can learn through beauty, belonging, and balance. Blending research-based practice with mindfulness, art, and nature, Gardenia offers a space where children and families can grow in purpose and connection.