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Sensory Garden and Play

★★★★★ 5.031 reviewsWest Milford, NJAges 3–11

Private

Sensory Garden & Play is a nature-based forest school on Snake Den Road in West Milford that runs a summer camp alongside its seasonal programs: Sprout & Sapling for ages 3-4, Pioneer for ages 5-6 and Junior Naturalist for ages 7-11. Days are spent outdoors hiking, exploring water, building shelters, doing sensory play and storytelling, with an emergent curriculum that emphasizes emotional intelligence. Families receive a portfolio of their child's outdoor learning at the end of each season.

The practical details

Ages
Ages 3–11
Environment
Indoor/Outdoor
Operator
Private
Before you register

We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact Sensory Garden and Play directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.

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★★★★★Christina Baxter

Sensory Garden and Play has been completely life-changing for our family. The compassion that radiates from this space is unlike anything we’ve ever experienced. Ms. Chantel is beyond amazing. Her heart, her vision, her presence—you feel it in everything. She leads with such love and intention, and it shows in how every child is met exactly where they are. Our son has come so far since starting. His confidence, communication, and joy have all grown in ways we could’ve only hoped for. He’s developing genuine friendships, and it’s been amazing to watch him form these meaningful connections. We are endlessly grateful to be part of this beautiful, supportive community where children truly thrive.

★★★★★megan letellier

I cannot say it enough, this program is amazing. I worked here for 3 weeks this summer and I can say I have never had a better work experience in my life. The family atmosphere that the staff create between each other and for each individual child is beautiful. The impact that they have had on me in such a short amount of time is incredible. The staff in this program are unmatched, they pour their hearts and souls into everything they do. And the memories the children leave with will last a lifetime. I loved my time working at Sensory Garden and Play.

★★★★★Ashley F

My kids and I first experienced Sensory Garden & Play last year when they attended summer camp and I immediately signed them up again as soon as registration opened this year. This place is something really special. My son was hesitant to go last year and Chantel went out of her way to FaceTime him before camp started so that he would have a familiar face when he arrived. She spent time getting to know him and it really eased his nerves. Upon arrival, she and the other teachers gave him the space he needed while also encouraging him to be brave. Chantel is not only a fantastic teacher, her awareness and dedication to the children and her program is second to none. She has poured her heart and soul into it all and it shows. She is reinventing school in the best way by giving children a wonderful experience and building beautiful childhood memories that they would not receive in typical preschool or elementary school. Since last summer there have been several wonderful changes and additions that we got to see at the last play date and my kids can’t wait to go back!

★★★★★Rachel Kniewel

This is what childhood is supposed to be! Hands-on exploration, imaginative play, and meaningful interactions outside in the forest. Learning about themselves and their bodies through risky play and boundaries, children are able to better understand the world around them. Enrolling my child in Sensory Garden and Play has been the most enriching experience beyond measure. Chantel offers a refreshing departure from conventional education. This forest school offers a holistic approach that nurtures not only academic growth but also emotional intelligence, physical well-being, and environmental conservation. My child blossoms at this school as she is able to truly be a child while also gaining significant experiences while being guided by the wisdom of the forest and the nurturing care of dedicated educators. I cannot recommend Sensory Garden and Play enough, especially for parents who are seeking a change from conventional education.

★★★★★Elizabeth Lozada

My 9th grade students had a wonderful time at SGP. We have had two school trips so far this year and are planning one more before the school year is over. Chantel is amazing and provides an organic enriching learning experience for all learners. Her enthusiastic and upbeat personality captures the student’s attention. Her naturalistic hands on approach keeps the students engaged I highly recommend a trip to SGP.

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