Fundamentals Retreat in Limerick, Maine

August 6-10, 2025 Limerick, ME

Mary Graham, Student Services Coordinator

Join us for a five-day in-person retreat to fill your tool kit with:

  • The basics of early childhood and how to support this critical phase of development
  • An introduction to the Living Arts
  • How to create sustainable and nourishing rhythms with attention to transitions
  • An understanding of the importance of play and how to support it
  • How to build effective relationships with partners, parents, colleagues
  • Basics in storytelling, as well as an experience of songs and games for children
  • Basic skills in handwork, festival craft, watercolor painting, nature table creation

**PLUS enjoy a week of nourishing self-care with delicious, organic meals, time in nature, movement classes, and the camaraderie of an established community to support and inspire you in the future!**

Mary has been working with children and families for the past 30 years! Homeschooling her children is what led her to Waldorf education, after looking for a holistic approach to education and family life. Mary became certified in LifeWays in 2011 and had a program in her home until 2021 when she built a new facility on her family homestead in order to share this philosophy with more children and families in her area. Creating a community for parents, children and caregivers is her passion and Mary is so excited to bring LifeWays trainings to Maine!

Call (207)600-2244 or Click to contact Mary for more info!

Jane McCoy, Lead Teacher

Jane McCoy is the founder and lead caregiver of Hummingbird Hill Playgarden, a home-based LifeWays representative site program in beautiful southern New Hampshire. Jane holds a B.S. in Elementary Education, and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum Development and Design. Jane completed her LifeWays training through the San Fransciso Bay in 2010. As Jane says “To say that Marianne and this training transformed my life is an understatement! The insights and inspiration I gained during that year continue to drive my passion and work with the young child”.

Playgarden is now in its 17th year, and Jane continues to open her heart and arms to the opportunities and adventures that await!  In addition to Playgarden, Jane was a Grades teacher for many years, has lead Parent/Toddler groups, has guided parent education classes, and has been a guest instructor for the SF Bay area LifeWays training.

Also View all Our Other Courses

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Love Grows Here: Storytelling with Belonging and Inclusion in Early Childhood
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LifeWays Early Childhood Fundamentals Course
August 6-10, 2025 Limerick, ME

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Online Archive of past seasons

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