about me
Samantha Lazar Buckley, M.ED.
Welcome! I am a child development specialist and family coach. Throughout my career, I have worn many hats in the field of education and child development.
After graduating from the University of Wisconsin - Madison with a degree in Education and Psychology, I taught English abroad in South Korea. Upon returning stateside, I completed a master's degree in Early Childhood Education at Columbia University Teachers College. I then taught first and second grades for five years in New York City before relocating to Madison, Wisconsin.
I continued my career in education as a private consultant. I support educational organizations in developing high quality programming for children. I also create educational content for publishing houses and curriculum developers. My work in the corporate sphere is grounded in current research-based early childhood practices that are flexible and focused on supporting the needs of the child and their family.
about Homegrown
Homegrown Family Coaching quite literally grew out of a need in my own home. My husband and I faced many life transitions at once, prompting upheaval in our personal lives.
The weekend after our wedding, I said goodbye to my first grade classroom, packed our apartment, and drove a moving truck across the country. My husband began his surgical residency at the university hospital while I pursued new opportunities in the field of education. As we settled into our first home, I was tired, nauseous… and pregnant!
Fast forward a few years, we welcomed three beautiful baby boys in a new home and city. Challenges amassed as my husband trained long hours while I faced the pandemic lockdown alone as a new mom. Our family and friends remained on the east coast and were unable to travel during this time. Sleep deprived, overwhelmed, and lonely - I turned to internet experts.
The flood of parenting literature and social media content was intimidating at best and dizzying at worst. Despite the best intentions of internet advice, parenting is a personal journey that warrants individualized support and on-going feedback. I built what I so long desired; a space for judgement-free problem solving focused solely on one family. Plus- around the clock guidance available when you need it the most!
Homegrown Family Coaching supports families across the spectrum of parenthood. Our work focuses on transitions. This may include transitioning to life with a newborn, early sleep challenges, starting solid foods, potty training, toddler behavior management, and academic counseling. We have the ability to grow with you over time, helping your family transition from one milestone to the next.
Please reach out, I'd love to learn more about you and your family!