Investing in the next generation of learners is one of the most important initiatives communities can focus on. Somerset Hills CityLifestyle spoke with Georgia Zaiser, Head of School at Far Hills Country Day School, about how to nurture children's growth, inspire lifelong learning, and shape future leaders.
As a professional educator, how do you believe children learn best?
Children learn best through experience. That’s why we prioritize STEAM—science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics—beginning at an early age. STEAM fosters hands-on, experiential learning that extends beyond traditional classroom boundaries. By actively engaging in real-world applications, students develop confidence in navigating an increasingly digital world. This approach deepens comprehension, encourages collaboration in small groups, and helps students see the tangible value of their efforts.
How have you invested in this type of education?
We raised $1.2 million to support a STEAM curriculum across all grade levels and create the Learning Commons, a state-of-the-art technology space for all students, faculty, and staff.
Beyond the classroom, our 54-acre campus provides countless opportunities for hands-on learning. In today’s digital age, where instant gratification is the norm, incorporating tactile experiences is more important than ever.For example, our seventh-grade science students don’t just read about organisms and biomes—they collect water samples from our campus pond and analyze them under a microscope.In social studies, instead of simply studying a map, students build one from clay, reinforcing geography in a tangible way.
Traditional skills like memorization, studying, and note-taking remain essential, but when paired with experiential learning, concepts come to life in ways that feel natural and engaging—sometimes without students even realizing how much they’re learning.
How can adults invest in children’s emotional intelligence?
Individualized attention is essential. At Far Hills, our intentionally small class sizes allow teachers to form meaningful connections with each student, fostering a deep understanding of their unique strengths, challenges, and emotional needs. While academic excellence is at the core of our mission, we take a holistic approach—nurturing intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth. Through character education, leadership opportunities, and a supportive community, we empower students to develop self-awareness, resilience, and empathy—critical skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.
How can parents invest in their children’s development?
For younger children, I encourage parents to minimize screen time and prioritize outdoor and unstructured play. Free play fosters creativity, problem-solving, and adaptability—skills that can be stifled when every moment is scheduled. Overloading children with structured activities can hinder their ability to navigate unscripted situations, build resilience, and develop critical thinking
In my eighth-grade wellness class, I remind students that human beings are imperfect. When parents expect perfection, they risk creating anxiety rather than confidence. Instead, they can focus on our school’s five pillars—kindness, responsibility, honesty, leadership, and respect—as guiding principles. Getting involved in the school community through volunteering, joining committees, or attending events also strengthens a child’s sense of belonging.
I love seeing parents on campus—that’s what makes a school a true family. It’s one of the reasons I was drawn to Far Hills Country Day School, not only as an educator but as a parent. Both of my sons attended from age 3 through eighth grade, so I experienced firsthand the impact of this community for 14 years.
Investing in children also means investing in teachers. What can schools do to help teachers grow?
Supporting teachers' growth directly enhances student success. At Far Hills, we are committed to continuous learning, which is why we have an endowed fund dedicated to professional development. This investment allows our educators to pursue graduate degrees, obtain specialized certifications, and engage in ongoing training that keeps them at the forefront of best practices in education. By empowering our teachers with the latest research, methodologies, and innovative strategies, we ensure they can provide the highest level of instruction and mentorship to our students.
Investing in children must also require an understanding of their challenges and teaching them how to navigate them.
Absolutely. When I surveyed my eighth-grade class, students shared that they feel immense pressure—to get into a top high school, excel in sports, achieve perfect grades, and meet unrealistic expectations. Social media amplifies these pressures with curated perfection, which can take a toll on their mental and emotional well-being.
Our role as educators is to help children develop resilience, coping skills, and a realistic perspective on success. A strong academic foundation is important, but without curiosity, adaptability, and the ability to overcome setbacks, knowledge alone isn’t enough. Too often, the focus on grades overshadows essential soft skills—like leadership, teamwork, and conflict resolution—yet these are the very qualities that often lead to long-term success.
Learn more about Far Hills Country Day School at fhcds.org.
"While children may receive an exceptional education, it becomes irrelevant if they lack inspiration, curiosity, and resilience. Real learning extends beyond knowledge acquisition; it requires the ability to adapt, explore, and persevere in the face of adversity." - Georgia Zaiser