Robbyn’s Nest – an award-winning education & tutoring center that attracts students of all ages and abilities from around the area – announced expansion plans for its in-home tutoring program, classes, clubs, and special events.

This hidden gem of the community – with a location in the heart of Sherman at 1 Route 37 East – offers a hands-on, personal learning experience that’s custom-tailored for each student.

Robbyn German – founding owner, teacher & educator for over 25 years – said, “in light of the pandemic, the way many students learn has changed dramatically. At the moment, most schools in the area are on a hybrid in-school / at-home or remote learning model. More and more families also chose homeschooling.”

“To meet demand, we now offer visits in students’ homes, or at a meeting place, for tutoring in all subject areas – Pre-K through Grade 12. Homework help, hobby mentoring, and enrichment classes are offered, too. We can also incorporate video conferencing.”

All teachers making in-home visits are degreed and certified professionals who live in many of the local towns.

House visits for hobby mentoring – like learning how to play chess, crochet, and draw – are also in demand. Drama, voice lessons, and foreign languages with professional coaches are big right now, too.

“Since we do personalized learning, hobby mentoring can be on almost anything, you name it. Whatever your children love, we can embrace their passions and engage them in interactive learning. If a student loves Legos, let’s do something fun that’s all about Legos.”

Robbyn – who has a background in early, elementary, special education, remedial reading & reading consulting – also develops programs for the gifted and talented. She and her team use the highly regarded Montessori teaching philosophy, which fosters a child-centered educational approach.

Many activities and classes offered at the Center can also be taught inside a student’s home.

UPCOMING CLUBS & SPECIAL EVENTS AT ROBBYN’S NEST

Open Studio Art Club

Bring out the creative genius in your child, and yourself, too! Marianne Soldner, a certified art teacher from New Milford, focuses on a new theme every month like drawing, painting, and creating with nature.

She also gets the creative juices flowing by teaching students about famous artists. November: It’s all about ceramics. December: Jewelry designing & making gifts for loved ones. This club meets weekly on Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to Noon & 1 to 2 p.m. Cost: Depends on craft and materials

Dance Club

Starting in December, Sherman’s very own Madeline Delaparra – a professionally trained dancer – will offer beginner to advanced ballet, jazz, and tap lessons for children of all ages, and adults, too. Call for details.

What’s Hot…

Lego Club

Once a month, the Lego Club meets with Miss Robbyn. Each class focuses on an academic area, like STEM science & technology learning. Students can add gears and make simple or complex machines, bringing out the inventor in all.

Create a board game with Legos at the next class, which meets on Friday, January 22 (snow date – 1/24) – 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Another option, join in on the fun via Zoom.

Cost for the next class: $15 per child, includes new Legos & poster board / $12 with your own supplies. Bonus: Homework Help

Preschool Education Class & Playgroup

Back by popular demand, this dynamic preschool group meets weekly on Mondays, from 10 a.m. to Noon. Miss Soldner teaches Kindergarten readiness skills, music with movement, early science exploration, and more. Storytime, arts & crafts, and outside play during nice weather also captivates little ones. Drop-offs okay, if potty trained, or with a parent / guardian. Next Open House (no charge): Monday, 1/18 – 10 a.m. to Noon. Class Cost: $20 per child

Zumba Gold

Children and adults get active with great people at this happening dance party workout! Join certified fitness instructor Tim Engstrom – a familiar name throughout the Candlewood Lake area – for one hour of “shake it at your own pace.” This class meets weekly, typically on Fridays, 5 to 6 p.m. (outside on nice days). Cost: $10 per student

Weather Tracker Club

New this month is a weather club like no other! Join Keith Swanhall, a New Milford dad of five, who knows a gazillion things about the weather. On December 5, from 2 to 3 p.m., learn all about different weather patterns & catastrophic events. Do a weather report, too, just like a meteorologist. Cost: $12 per student

 Children’s IMPROV!

Live theater is Anthony Depoto’s passion. Join him biweekly, for a wonderful introduction. In November, students will star in their own commercial and sell things with unusual flair, bringing out newly discovered persuasion and sales skills. Call for details.

On December 13, from 2 to 3:30 p.m., students will read aloud short scripts. Rumpelstiltskin, a classic radio play, will be one of the highlights. Cost: $15 per student

SPECIAL EVENTS

Frozen Day

Oh, what a magical dream party this is where famous Frozen characters are brought to life! Professional actors will enchant children, keeping them entertained. Now in its 7^th year, it’s the most popular event of the season.

Sing along with the characters, enjoy a reading from Frozen, and play in an igloo. Event Date: Sunday, Feb. 28; Time Slots: 11-12, 1-2, 2-3 & 3-4; Early Bird Cost: $12 per child, also includes a snack. Sibling discounts, too.

Antiques Roadshow

On Saturday, Feb. 7, bring in your favorite family heirloom or antique toy and have it appraised, just like they do on the famous television show! Get expert advice and a history lesson on your prized object in question. Cost: $20 suggested donation goes to Robbyn’s Nest Scholarship Fund. Time – TBA

FOR ALL CLASSES & EVENTS

• Space is limited. Classes and events require a reservation at least 3 days in advance.
• Facemasks must be worn inside & outside.
• Safety and the highest cleanliness standards are practiced at in-home visits, and inside and outside of the Center.
• Group rates & sibling discounts are available.
• Children under two are free.
• Afterschool programs like tutoring / homework help are available. 

TO REGISTER & LEARN MORE…

Call: 860.354.0099 or 860.355.8989

Email: rgerman01@snet.net

Visit: Robbyn’s Nest website & like / follow on Facebook and Instagram, too.

Note: For Sherman School students, Robbyn’s Nest is on the bus route.

• For schools and organizations, classes can be at your establishment.
• Financial Aid is available.
• Gift Certificates are also available.

Center Photos – Contributed

Flickr.com Images: Lucelia Ribeiro – Featured School Kids, Art Brushes – Celeste Lindell