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TimberNook at Hydaway Collective

Where Childhood Comes Naturally

Some of childhood's most meaningful moments can't be scheduled or scored… a fallen branch becomes a fort, a muddy puddle becomes an ocean to cross, caring for an animal sparks a new sense of responsibility. These are the moments that build curiosity and resilience, and remind kids that learning doesn't only happen inside of a traditional classroom.

That belief is why Hydaway Collective is proud to be the exclusive provider of TimberNook® in Northeast Florida, offering one of the world's most respected outdoor play-based programs across Hydaway locations while also partnering with schools, educational facilities, and other organizations to bring the experience directly to children where they learn and grow.

What Is TimberNook?

TimberNook is an internationally recognized, research-backed outdoor play program founded by pediatric occupational therapist Angela Hanscom. After years in clinical practice, Hanscom noticed a pattern: children spending less time outdoors, and more of them struggling with balance, coordination, attention, and social skills that previous generations built naturally through everyday play. TimberNook was her answer to a simple question, what if kids just needed more room to move, explore, imagine, and play?
Unlike traditional enrichment programs built around a set outcome, TimberNook begins with an invitation, not instructions. Certified instructors prepare an outdoor environment designed to spark imagination, then step back, observing, supporting, and ensuring safety, without directing the play itself. Children build forts, invent games, solve problems together, and create entire worlds from natural materials, developing confidence, resilience, creativity, communication, and independence along the way.

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Families Often Notice Growth In:

  • Confidence approaching new challenges
  • Independence and initiative
  • Communication and teamwork
  • Imaginative, creative play
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Healthy, age-appropriate risk-taking
  • Resilience when things don't go as planned
  • A deeper love of the outdoors

Meet Your Certified TimberNook Instructor

Abby Premo

Abby Premo serves as the Director of Hydaway Collective, bringing together a strong background in early childhood development, behavioral support, outdoor education, and nature-based learning. She is a Certified TimberNook Instructor and Registered Behavior Technician, with additional qualifications in CPR/First Aid, Crisis Prevention & Intervention, and as a Level II 4-H Volunteer and Florida DCF-credentialed early childhood professional.

Abby earned her Associate in Arts degree in Early Childhood Management from Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ), followed by a Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Human Services. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Jacksonville University.

Abby Premo, Director of Hydaway Collective

Her passion for outdoor education has deep roots. Growing up in New York, time spent among the trees and mountains of the Adirondacks was a natural part of everyday life. Later, her experience working at New York State Department of Environmental Education camps further shaped her understanding of the powerful role nature can play in a child’s development and ultimately inspired her to become a TimberNook provider and outdoor enrichment facilitator.

Today, Abby is passionate about giving children the freedom and opportunity to build a genuine connection with the outdoors through meaningful, natural, and authentic experiences. She believes that bringing together the therapeutic benefits of nature, alternative education, and child-led outdoor play creates sensory-rich opportunities for children to build confidence, encourage creativity, explore their surroundings, develop new skills, and create lessons and memories that last a lifetime.

Explore TimberNook at Hydaway Collective

Weekly TimberNook Programs

Consistent, seasonal sessions that build confidence, friendships, and a lasting connection to nature over time. Programs are available for multiple age groups throughout the school year, including our Lil' Wild Ones preschool experience and TimberNook classes for elementary-aged kids.

TimberNook Field Trips

An unforgettable outdoor learning experience for schools, homeschool groups, early learning programs, and community organizations. Our field trips are customizable to your group's age and goals. Visit us at our locations or we'll bring TimberNook to you.

TimberNook Birthday Celebrations

An afternoon of imagination, adventure, and child-led play, customized around your child's interests and age. Instead of a goodie bag, kids go home with a story they'll still be telling weeks later.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ages is TimberNook designed for?

Hydaway Collective offers TimberNook for both preschool and elementary-aged children, with specific age ranges varying by program. Check our current schedule for the latest offerings.

Is TimberNook just outdoor play?
How is TimberNook different from a forest school?
What happens during a session?
Will my child get dirty?
What should my child wear?
Does TimberNook meet in the rain?
Is TimberNook safe?
Is TimberNook a good fit for shy or cautious kids?
Can schools or community groups schedule a field trip?
Do you offer TimberNook birthday parties?
Why is Hydaway Collective the exclusive TimberNook provider in Northeast Florida?
How do I register?

Have Questions?

We'd love to help you explore which TimberNook program is the best fit, or talk through bringing an experience to your school or organization.