About Me
Hey, there! My name is Tina and I created GoodRoots to help more families connect with each other and experience the benefits of being outside! When I had my son in June of 2022, I spent much of the summer sitting inside, staring out the window at my garden, wishing I could be out there but unable to do so without assistance. GoodRoots stemmed from the hope that I could provide other new parents with an opportunity to garden, or simply spend time outside, with their infants in a safe, welcoming space. My dream is to connect parents with each other, with their children, and with themselves all through gardening.
Since then, GoodRoots has evolved. Fostering connections remains the most important component of my classes. This year, I aim to expand my class offerings to reach a broader audience of families and adult learners.
My horticultural experience stems from my background as a Minnesota Master Naturalist and Master Gardener certifications, as well as a lifelong love of nature. In May 2025, I will graduate with my M.Ed. in Parent & Family Education with Minnesota licensure, which has given me a deep understanding of family dynamics, adult learning styles, family systems, and educational strategies. I am excited to combine my educational experiences through GoodRoots!
Mission Statement
GoodRoots is dedicated to fostering a love for plants, gardening, and sustainability while strengthening families and communities. Through hands-on learning, GoodRoots empowers individuals of all ages to grow their own food, enhance their love of nature, and build connections that promote overall well-being. By cultivating knowledge and shared experiences, GoodRoots inspires a healthier, more resilient future for generations to come.
FAQs
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GoodRoots classes are non-separating and are welcome to a variety of ages. Please view the class details on my enrollment page to see the recommended age suggestions.
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Yes! You must be with your child at all times. We can work together to make the class accessible for you and your child.
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There will be “grown-ups only” classes offered starting in 2025. Please see the enrollment page to learn more!
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Most classes will be 100% outside. We have indoor bathroom facilities, a gazebo, and a greenhouse. I will have some gardening gloves and aprons you can wear during class, but if you have nice-fitting gardening gloves you are welcome to bring your own.
You are responsible for dressing yourself and your child appropriately and ensuring you have the proper gear to fully enjoy class.
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For Adults: Bring sunscreen, bug spray, lots of water, and gardening gloves if you have them. Wear comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty. I will have some aprons and gardening gloves to use during class.
For baby and toddler: Sunscreen (where age appropriate), a sun shade/bug net, and food. Your usual diaper bag supplies, like diapers and wipes, will be necessary as well!
You are responsible for dressing your child appropriately and ensuring you have the proper gear to fully enjoy class. You are welcome to wear your baby (make sure you have enough range of motion to bend, kneel, and reach), or bring a bassinet, or a play mat.
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That depends! All gardening activities will be dependent on the season and weather. We may be planting seeds, watering plants, selecting herbs for tea, or cutting flowers for vases. In some cases, you will be able to bring things home - like herbs or cut flowers - to enjoy later.
Our focus is to enjoy being outside and spending time together. We can support any abilities you may have, and can accommodate most needs, please just let me know ahead of time.
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Nope! Any gardening level is welcome. I will guide you through each task and can make accommodations where needed.
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Yes to both. Please visit the Scholarships and Donations page to learn more.
