Meet Miss Natalie (aka Nat!)
If your family spent any time in Boogie Wonderland this summer, you've probably already met Miss Natalie/Mrs. Henkenius — better known around Aqualand as Nat.
From the very first day, Nat had a way of making our youngest campers feel safe, encouraged, and excited to explore the water. Whether she was celebrating a child's first ride on a boogie board, helping little hands discover sea life, or simply offering a reassuring smile, she quickly became a favorite among campers, parents, and staff alike.
We're so excited that Nat will be joining our Way of the Waterman homeschool program on Wednesdays this school year, where she'll be leading our youngest students through their first adventures in ocean education! This program will serve ages 4 & up.
Nat grew up in Laguna Niguel, where surfing, boating, beach days, and outdoor adventures were simply a way of life. Her love for the ocean began early, and it's something she's passionate about passing on to the next generation. She studied at Biola University, focusing on Elementary Education with an emphasis in Special Education, while also playing collegiate softball on scholarship - and you know we love our athletes around here!
Since then, she's become a wife and mother of 3!
She’s spent nearly five years teaching third grade at Cornerstone Christian Academy, bringing together strong classroom experience with a calm, joyful presence that children naturally respond to. While she enjoys working with kids of every age, she has a special place in her heart for little ones experiencing the ocean for the very first time. She understands that confidence grows through encouragement, patience, and plenty of fun.
At Aqualand, we believe the best teachers don't just teach—they inspire wonder. Nat embodies that every day, and we're incredibly grateful to have her as part of our homeschool family. If your child joins us on Wednesdays for Way of The Waterman this year, they'll have the opportunity to learn from someone who is purpose driven, loves children, and loves helping them discover the incredible classroom that is - the ocean.
Welcome, Nat! We can't wait for an amazing year together.