Hi! I’m Kati, the owner and teacher at Root & Bloom Playgarden

In my free time, I love exploring new places and nature with my husband, Eric, and our two young daughters. I also enjoy arts and crafts, thrifting, and gardening. I am a Lifeways Graduate (Waldorf Early Childhood Education Program) and hold a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Northwood University. During a tour of Song Sparrow Playgarden in Martinez, I was introduced to Waldorf and nature-based programs. I was deeply inspired by the simplicity, daily rhythms, and the opportunity for children to play outdoors all day. Within two weeks, I enrolled in the Lifeways Early Childhood Certificate Program to learn more about Waldorf philosophies and the value of nature play. Toward the end of my training, I reached out to Amy, the owner of Song Sparrow Playgarden, to ask if she was hiring an assistant teacher—and she was! I worked alongside Amy during the 2021-2022 school year and returned as a parent helper during the 2022-2023 school year while on maternity leave.

The 2025-2026 school year will mark our third year in business! It has been such a joy to connect with like-minded families in Benicia (and surrounding areas) who value Waldorf philosophies and nature-based education. I look forward to fostering even more community through events and workshops in 2025. Thank you for being here!