Nurturing Nature: A Guide to Gardening for Special Needs

Join author Jill Mays for an inspiring exploration of how our senses can deepen our connection to the natural world. In this session, Jill will share how sensory experiences in nature support health, well-being, and emotional balance for people of all ages and abilities.

Participants will discover simple, accessible ways to engage sight, sound, touch, smell, and even taste while exploring outdoor spaces—whether in a garden, park, or backyard. Jill will offer practical “how-to” strategies along with easy-to-implement activities designed to spark curiosity, reduce stress, and create meaningful connections with nature.

This session emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility, offering ideas that can be adapted for diverse learners, families, and community groups. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use tools, creative inspiration, and a deeper appreciation for the healing power of sensory experiences in nature.

Books will be available to purchase on-site, and a Q&A session at the end will provide an opportunity to ask questions, share ideas, and connect more deeply with the topic.