magic starts here

We’re so glad you’re here! At Raising Primaries, we believe childhood should be filled with wonder, connection, and discovery. Our classes invite families to slow down, explore nature, and nurture big feelings in little hearts. Whether you’re joining us for outdoor adventures, social-emotional learning, or parent-and-child experiences, you’ll find a space where community and growth blossom together.

Take a look around, explore our offerings, and join us on this journey of raising curious, confident, and compassionate kids.

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Where Our Story Meets Yours

Raising Primaries takes its name from the Montessori term "primary" for children ages 3 to 6. As Marlena and Sarah dreamed of a community to nurture their own primary-aged children and connect with other mothers in the same season, Raising Primaries was born. With several more years in this stage ahead, we are walking alongside the families we serve.

Our Mission

Meaningful Connections

At Raising Primaries, our mission is to create meaningful connections between children, parents, and the natural world. We provide nature-based, play-centered experiences that inspire curiosity, confidence, and community. Through hands-on exploration and shared discovery, we help families slow down, reconnect, and grow together.

Inspiring Learning Journeys

We aim to inspire families to get outside, get messy, and make memories that last. Through imaginative play, and time spent in nature, we encourage children to grow curious and confident while parents reconnect with the joy of simple, shared moments. At Raising Primaries, we believe childhood is meant to be lived fully—so let's make time for play.

Meet Marlena & Sarah

Marlena

Marlena is the founder of Raising Primaries LLC, a nature-loving teacher and mama to three little sprouts. Based in central Delaware, she’s spent over 15 years teaching and, in 2024, traded her traditional classroom for the great outdoors.
She’s passionate about bringing joyful, hands-on outdoor learning to primary-aged children—hence the name Raising Primaries! You’ll find Marlena leading Seedlings and Sprout Scouts Nature Classes at local parks in Townsend and Wyoming, where curiosity, connection, and fresh air fill every day.

Sarah

Sarah is an outdoor-loving teacher-mama of three and the co-founder of Raising Primaries. Her daily goal is simple: to get her kids outside—and to help you do the same! After spending 11 years in the classroom teaching children ages 2.5–10, she’s thrilled to bring her passion for play-based learning beyond the walls and into nature. Sarah leads classes in the Pike Creek and Newark areas, where children learn and grow through movement, imagination, and wonder.