We had the good fortune of connecting with Loren Klein and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Loren, what are you inspired by?
I’m inspired by the magic of human development! In the first 3 years of life, the brain grows at its most rapid pace. Children are learning from every single relationship and experience. These years have a long-term impact on social, emotional, intellectual and physical outcomes. I’m so thrilled that ZenHippo gets to support families through these critical years of brain development with positive, play-based experiences that nurture attachment, discovery, and creativity.

What should our readers know about your business?

I founded ZenHippo in 2022 after a fifteen-year career in education. I’d worked in classrooms, non-profit and public policy – all in hopes of supporting families and improving educational outcomes, particularly for students with disabilities. I learned so much from my professional career that contributed to the launch of my business. Becoming a mother and learning about the significance of that transformation, however, is what truly directed me to focus on new families and early childhood. This phase of life is joyful but filled with new challenges that many families are unprepared for. I knew that community, education, and mindful play radically transform the early years of parenting, so I set out to create that in my local community.

Today, we have thirteen different classes in 5 locations designed and facilitated by early childhood experts that incorporate multi-sensory play, books, music, art, movement and the natural world to inspire development, curiousity and creativity in children ages 0-3. Our classes provide access to local experts, nurture relationships within and among families, and improve early childhood outcomes. I’m so proud of what we’ve created and excited to see how it grows in the coming years.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Palm Beach is an amazing place to soak in nature. Grab a juice at Celis or a matcha at HIVE and stroll through our favorite gardens!

Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens – This two acre urban sanctuary and nationally recognized arboretum is a non-profit foundation devoted to preserving Ann Weaver Norton’s house, studio, monumental sculptures, butterfly havens, and tropical gardens. The shaded, grassy area surrounded by 250 species of palms and cycads is our home on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Pan’s Garden – This half acre garden just off Worth Avenue is Florida’s first all-native botanical garden. Established by the Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach, it serves to protect and showcase Florida’s indigenous plants and the wildlife they support. The covered area in the center of the garden is our home on Wednesdays and Fridays.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My children have been my greatest teachers! From them, I’ve learned the power of mindful living, compassion, curiosity, patience, kindness, creativity and so much more.

Website: www.wearezenhippo.com

Instagram: @wearezenhippo

Other: Book a class! https://app.squarespacescheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=26286233

Image Credits
Victoria Benoit Photo Solo Mio Photography

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