13 years Inspiring children through sensory-rich, nature-based play
There was a time when many of us earned our first coins by doing small but meaningful jobs — sweeping a porch, helping a neighbor carry groceries, watering plants, or organizing a shelf — just enough to buy a sweet treat or save up for a toy we really wanted. Those simple moments taught us responsibility, pride, and the joy of contributing.
Our Roots to Leadership Program brings that spirit back to today’s children, offering them a nature‑based internship experience where they can step into real tasks, real leadership, and real growth. Here, ages 8–12 learn to support younger children, plan activities, manage their first earnings, and discover the confidence that comes from being trusted with something that matters… and in addition to that, it all happens outside. 🌿
🌿 Roots to Leadership
A Nature‑Based Internship for Ages 8–12
Roots to Leadership Program is a unique camp opportunity designed for children ages 8 to 12 who are ready to take their first steps toward independence, responsibility, and leadership. Unlike traditional “campers,” Roots to Leadership participants join us as interns—active contributors who support younger children, prepare activities, and learn foundational life skills.
We accept only 4 interns per week, ensuring individualized guidance, meaningful responsibility, and a safe environment for growth.
This program is a collaboration between Miami Nature PLAY and The Childhood Nature Project, aligned with our shared mission:
To empower children through nature, community, responsibility, and real‑world learning.
🌱 Why Mentorship at This Age? (What the Research Says)
1. Responsibility & Autonomy Build Executive Function
Research shows that when children are given real responsibility, their self‑regulation, planning, and problem‑solving skills strengthen significantly (Center on the Developing Child, Harvard University).
2. Nature‑Based Leadership Strengthens Confidence & Social Skills
Outdoor, hands‑on leadership experiences improve communication, empathy, and resilience (American Institutes for Research, 2019).
3. Early Financial Literacy Predicts Future Stability
Children who learn to earn, save, and manage money early develop stronger long‑term financial habits (FINRA Investor Education Foundation; ALA “Thinking Money for Kids” program).
4. Mentorship Strengthens Identity & Purpose
Programs that position preteens as helpers or leaders increase self‑esteem, belonging, and motivation (The Joy Culture Foundation’s Junior Leadership Workshops)
Program Structure
🧠Weekly Internship Responsibilities
RTL participants will:
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Support the team in caring for younger children
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Help set up, clean up, and organize materials
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Plan and lead two nature‑based or natural‑materials activities for the week.
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Research and prepare one gross motor skill guided activity for younger children
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Attend the specific date assigned (Sunday morning) before their internship to check supplies and plan accordingly
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Practice communication, initiative, and teamwork
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Reflect daily on challenges, successes, and next steps
This is not a perfection‑based program.
It is a process‑based journey where mistakes are expected, welcomed, and used as learning opportunities.
💵 Financial Literacy Component
Families pay the program weekly tuition, and 50% of that amount becomes the child’s “salary.”
$400 - until 1.00pm. I $500 until 2.00pm. I $600 until 3.00pm.
To participate, the child must have:
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A goal: Can be financial, a service or a product.
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A bank account where he can deposit a check payable to his/her name, or
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A Greenlight card - You can use this link or QR to register:
GREENLIGHT ACCOUNT CREATION LINK
Interns will learn:
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How earning works
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How to track income
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How to save, spend, and plan
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How to set financial goals
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How to reflect on the value of work
🤝 Parent Partnership: Trust, Detachment and Mentorship
This program requires a high level of parental trust. Your child will be stepping into real responsibility, and that means:
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They will not do everything perfectly
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They will be challenged
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They will be held accountable
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They will grow through discomfort
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They will experience pride in real contribution
Parents must discuss the program with their child before registering, ensuring the child is excited and willing to participate.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
Please visit Back to Nature PLAYcamp page to read the general Information like dates, time and location.
Rain or Shine
Play-Based & Child-Led
100% Outdoor program
1:5 mentor Ratio
The program foundation rest in the practice of the Synergetic Play Therapeutic sessions and the use of Nature as a tool to help children to balance their regulatory nervous system, Conscious Discipline to redirect behavior and we practice a Whole‑Child, Neuroscience‑Guided Approach.
Summer Back to Nature
in partnership with The Childhood Nature Project
REGISTRATION DETAILS
• The full regular investment for Summer PLAYcamp is due at the time of enrollment.
• This program is not combinable with the sibling discount.
PAYMENT OPTIONS
WEEKLY INVESTMENT
1p.m. pick up - $400
2p.m. pick up - $500
3p.m. pick up - $600
Zelle to (786) 499 2939
Refund Policy
Cancellations made 20 days or more before your child’s registered start date are eligible for a 50% refund.
Cancellations made 19 days or fewer before the start date are non‑refundable, and we are unable to offer credit for future camps, events, or classes due to our small‑group policy.
If your child can no longer attend, another child who is not currently registered may take their place, as long as the family completes all required forms.
We appreciate your understanding and support as we work to maintain high‑quality, intimate nature‑based experiences for all children.