Behind the Secret Garden
About Nicole
A Love of Learning, Nature & Childhood
A Love of Learning, Nature & Childhood
Nicole Maggiore is a mother, homeschool educator, and longtime lover of children’s books, nature, and hands-on learning. Before homeschooling her family, she worked in child development, where her passion for helping children learn through curiosity, play, and everyday experiences began.
Over the years, Nicole’s interest in natural living led her to explore naturopathy, herbs, nutrition, and holistic wellness. The more she learned, the more she wished there were playful, age-appropriate ways for children to become familiar with the plants growing all around them.
How The Little Herbal Friends Began
How The Little Herbal Friends Began
The Little Herbal Friends Series grew from the idea that children can learn about herbs and nature through something they already love—stories and imagination.
Inside the Secret Garden, each herbal friend introduces children to a real plant, some of its traditional uses, and a meaningful lesson connected to everyday life. Stories are paired with activities, coloring, puzzles, nature exploration, and simple learning opportunities designed to keep children curious long after the story ends.
Growing Curious Little Minds
Growing Curious Little Minds
Nicole hopes The Little Herbal Friends encourages children to ask questions, slow down, notice the little things, spend time outdoors, and become curious about the natural world.
More than anything, she hopes children leave the Secret Garden believing that learning can happen anywhere—and that there is always something new waiting to be discovered.
Explore the Books