What are the benefits of a Nature- Based Play Class or Nature School?
When children (and their grown-ups) engage in play-based learning in nature, in the greatest classroom of all...the outdoors, they begin to lay the foundation for caring for, respecting and learning about wildlife. Explorers by Nature programs create engaged and passionate children who experience a true joy for learning. Nature school and play classes offer a multitude of benefits including: improved health, communication and focus skills, promotes risk-taking, encourages problem-solving , empowers learners, boosts creative and imaginative thinking, development of fine and gross motor skills. Children also build confidence in themselves as they gain new physical, social, emotional and knowledge about the natural world around us! In Explorers by Nature play classes, parents/caregivers also benefit through meeting like-minded families as they become a part of our Explorers by Nature community!
Can I bring food?
Yes! You are always welcome to bring snacks/lunch/water for your child(ren). Every part of class is thoughtfully considered to allow for the most positive experience possible, and with little ones, this often means lots of food. Due to the possibility of allergies, please be sure to enjoy all food on your blanket, and wash hands/faces after you finish snack-time.
My child doesn't always pay attention or sit still, is that OK?
Yes! Explorers by Nature Play Classes and Nature School are designed for children 1-8 years of age and takes into account their developmental needs to move often and engage in novel activities every few minutes. With that said, if your child is seeming extra wiggly, or has their own ideas for what they would like to do, please follow their lead. Explorers by Nature is a child-led program, and children learn best when they are able to lead the way. So, slow down and observe your child's interests and know it is OK if the way they choose to play in that moment or class looks different than how others are playing. Every child at Explorers by Nature is welcome and celebrated.
What if the weather is bad?
At Explorers by Nature, we subscribe to the philosophy that there is "no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing choices." With that said, if the weather is unsafe, Nature School or Nature Play Class will be rescheduled to the following week. Class is only an hour long and we can model to our children that we can still find joy in outdoor play while being dressed appropriately for the weather. In the event of rainy/cold/windy weather for Nature School, we may change locations for the day to another East County SD Park with a covered pavilion to provide shelter/relief from the weather. If there is a chance of rain/wind/chilly temperatures, I will communicate about the plans for class and provide a clothing/gear guide to support you in dressing your child and yourself.
Are you licensed & insured?
Yes, we are both licensed and insured. Specifically, Amy is licensed and has completed background checks in the State of California as a credentialed educator for grades K-12. Her masters degree training and expertise is in Early Childhood Education and Differentiated Instruction. Learn more here.
What if I can't come anymore - can I get a refund?
Yes, within the first week of the class starting, if you need to cancel your enrollment, a partial refund can be processed for the remaining weeks, less a 5% processing fee for credit card payments. After the first week, refunds are not offered.