Testimonials

"Susie is an incredible educator who understands the importance of blending learning with play, imagination, relationship and hands-on experience.  Her phenomenal creativity, warmth and passion build the environment for children to create, explore, discover and deeply shine.  With Susie, children come to a truly inspired and inspiring place."

-Lillian Domin, Co-founder, Co-director at Blue Whale Children's Centre

"Susie has been a godsend for our family! After the shock and disappointment of the public school system, trying other “alternative/progressive” programs and being terribly disillusioned by them all, we found Evergreen Life Learning and there has been no looking back. Susie has created this amazing space for the kids, filled with warmth, kindness, love, laughter, and of course, lots of learning! She has a way with the kids, making them feel seen, heard and safe. Evergreen Life Learning is the only truly self-directed and child-led program in Ottawa, with the kids’ socio-emotional and overall mental and physical well-being always at the core. We feel incredibly lucky to have found Susie. We’ve seen our child thrive and grow by leaps and bounds over the course of his time in the program, and we highly recommend this program to anybody looking for a space where your child can discover and learn to truly be themselves."

- Himani and Deepak

“One of the silver linings of the pandemic for our family was finding Susie. Our son has spent a full year in the Kinderforest program and it’s been such an incredible experience. Susie is incredibly kind and attentive and is passionate about creating an environment in which kids can explore, be self-directed, and tap into their creativity. The ample outdoor time, small class size and nurturing environment allowed our son to thrive. He always wanted to stay and play with his friends at pick-up time and sleeps like a dream at night. I would highly recommend Susie’s program to any parent who wants to see their kids thrive.”

-Sarah Vadeboncoeur

"Our experience having our daughter with Susie has been incredible. Having a safe haven for learning, exploration, play and inquiry has given our daughter confidence and sparked her curiosity. She feels empowered and has formed some lovely friendships with the other children. The small group size also allows the children to take ownership of their actions and encourages self-discovery, awareness, as well as navigating different personalities. We would not hesitate to recommend Susie and her programs to anyone who wants an absolutely magical, educational foundation for their child." 

-Jennifer Walker

"Susie, thanks for everything you have done for our daughter as her teacher. She has so many fond memories, and she really felt a bond with you. Your nurturing and encouraging teaching style and calm, loving presence were such gifts for the students in the class, and ones from which we know our daughter benefited immensely."

-Tara S.

"Children and parents are drawn to Susie Shapiro’s deeply caring and calm approach. Both our daughters thrived in her KinderForest program in which they could explore nature, get creative, build friendships and grow into their best self. I highly recommend Susie’s child centred, well-structured and fun program to anyone looking for an alternative to the traditional classroom."

- Ashley S. 

"Susie is a treasured instructor! When she works with her learners she focuses on their strengths, experimentation, and helping them to follow their hearts when exploring art and their creative selves. Susie is also deeply connected to her community and can help learners also connect with the community through art.  We are grateful to Susie for sharing her talent and care."

-Helen R.