What Are Neuro Nests? Second Nature, Closer to Home

At Second Nature, we believe healing and learning happen best in places where people feel safe, seen, and surrounded by nature. Over the years, we’ve witnessed the power of our nature-based, neuro-affirming, trauma-informed approach—and we’ve also heard a growing need from families:

"We wish there was something like this closer to us."

That’s why we created Neuro Nests.

These community-rooted extensions of Second Nature are our way of making support more accessible, local, and woven into everyday life—without losing the essence of what makes Second Nature so special.

What Is a Neuro Nest?

A Neuro Nest is a community-based Second Nature site, nestled in natural spaces, where children, youth, and families can access mental health, therapeutic, and educational services close to home.

Think of it as a mini-Second Nature: Smaller. Slower. Still infused with everything we stand for—neuro-affirmation, nature connection, co-regulation, and deep care.

Each Nest is grounded in the local community and offers flexible programming in woodlands, farms, community gardens, and green spaces, tailored to the unique needs of the families it serves.

Why Neuro Nests Matter

For many families raising neurodivergent children, support can feel like a long drive, a long waitlist, or a long way from what their child truly needs. That can be discouraging, isolating, and, frankly, exhausting.

Neuro Nests bring connection, regulation, and belonging closer to home.

They’re places where:

• A child who struggles in traditional settings can feel calm and curious again

• A parent can exhale and say, “Finally, someone understands.”

• A teen can be outside, moving and talking (or not talking) at their own pace

• Families can find not just services—but community

  
  

What Happens at a Neuro Nest?

While every Nest is shaped by its setting and the needs of the families it serves, you might find:

• Full and part-time schooling options

• Outdoor therapy sessions for children, youth, and caregivers

• Walk-and-talk counselling beneath the trees

• Parent coaching and peer support circles

• Neuro-affirming learning pods and social groups

• Sensory-based play and regulation activities

• Workshops, seasonal celebrations, and community events

  
  

Most importantly, you’ll find warmth, welcome, and the deep belief that neurodivergence is not a problem to be fixed—but a difference to be supported, celebrated, and understood.

Building a Nest Together

Our dream is that no matter where a family lives, there will be a Neuro Nest nearby—a safe, green space where they can connect, grow, and belong.

These Nests are made possible through community partnerships, land stewards, funders, and the collective care of families who are ready for something different.

They’re not just programs. They’re ecosystems of care. And they are growing.

Come Find Your Nest

Whether you’re a family looking for support, a community eager to host a Nest, or a practitioner wanting to be part of this movement—you are welcome here.

Let’s build a world where every child has a place to land. Let’s make healing feel natural again. Let’s grow something beautiful, together.

With rooted hope,

Anastasia Machan

Founder, Second Nature