Crossing the Treeline: The Story Behind Treeline Enrichment

Crossing the Treeline: The Story Behind Treeline Enrichment

Every story has a beginning, and for Treeline Enrichment, it started with a defining moment that shaped our path forward. I wanted to share this story because I believe the name ‘Treeline’ holds something more than just a label—it holds meaning, history, and purpose. In 2018, as I sat across from an attorney, papers spread out before me, preparing to make my business official, I knew I was taking the first steps of something significant. This story begins at that moment. I knew what I wanted to offer to the world: a space where children could grow, thrive, and connect with nature. But I didn’t have a name. That decision felt heavier than I anticipated, as if the name would set the course for everything…

image looking up a pine tree with text "do big kids need to play?"

Do Big Kids Still Need to Play?

Whenever I bring up an opportunity for my son to take a class, participate in a program as a ‘helper,’ or do anything he isn’t authentically interested in, I get the same reply, “Mom, I just want to play.” This reply stands out because it is from a 14-year-old. Yes, big kids still want to play!  The problem is that there very few opportunities for pre-teens and teens to ‘just play.’ So, before I go any further, let me define ‘play‘. Play is a range of intrinsically motivated activities done for recreational pleasure and enjoyment (Garvey, 1990).  For this post, I’m defining play as child-led, including activities they choose and resulting in their enjoyment.  In the homeschool community, you will find groups, generally led by…

Sensory Hurricane Kit

Sensory Hurricane Kit

Living in the Tampa Bay, Florida area means we have to prepare for the 5-months of hurricane season.  We have all kinds of systems for preparing our homes for severe weather, stocking up on food and water, and establishing safe spaces to shelter.  When storms approach, there is a graded buzz of anxiety and uncertainty in the air.  We watch the weather diligently for a week and as predictions become more reliable, the community comes alive with preparations.

OT student looking at the earth with client

OT Student Reflections

Student Reflections at Treeline from OT Student Sean Vercellone, St. Augustine University I have always enjoyed spending time in nature. It is a place where I feel safe and most like myself. This fact shaped my career path and led me to work at a summer camp for kids and adults with disabilities. I loved this job! I lead activities like kayaking, tubing, and ziplining, while also building meaningful connections with so many unique kids and adults. Working at this camp for three summers changed my life. Not only did it lead to me applying to occupational therapy school, but it was the first time I witnessed the therapeutic benefits of nature. 

Tips for E-Learning graphic

12 Tips for E-Learning

Whew – you have started the school year!  It has been months of roller coaster emotions, information (or lack thereof) and tough decisions.  Now that you know a bit more about your child’s schedule, teachers, expectations, and school day, we put together 12 tips for e-learning to help you and your child make the most of this opportunity.  

Finding Calm in the Chaos: Image if stressed parent

Finding Calm in the Chaos

Are you trying to find calm in the middle of chaos?  Life sure seems crazy these days. So much uncertainty and change wreaks havoc on our nerves. Whether you are in the middle of difficult school decisions, feeling disconnected from others or tired of being cooped up with your family for far too long, we have some tips to help you find the calm you are searching for.