Meet Ms. Amy~
Founder & Lead Educator
I have a Master's of Educational Studies, with a concentration in Emergent Literacy and Advanced Differentiated and Inclusive Education from Johns Hopkins University. I have gained extensive experience with young children in a range of settings. I spent six years as an Elementary School Teacher, seven years in toddler and pre-school classrooms, and worked as a camp counselor for five years prior to my classroom experience. I am a homeschool mama to an energetic, curious and amazing first grade boy! I love seeing the world anew through his eyes, falling in love with nature all over again and following his interests as I discover and explore alongside him! Explorers by Nature was born to create the opportunity for all children and families to learn, grow and explore together outdoors in community!
Background & Approach
Prior to bringing Explorers by Nature to San Diego families, I worked as an outdoor educator with Tinkergarten for eight seasons and have now been leading Explorers by Nature for over three years! During my many years teaching in nature alongside my son, I have witnessed firsthand the remarkable impact that child-led, nature play has on a growing mind and body. I believe in the importance of truly listening to children, providing space for their emotions, equipping them with the skills they need to grow and navigate our world and using beautiful, natural, and realistic learning materials in our outdoor classroom. My philosophy of outdoor education is influenced by Montessori, Social-Emotional Learning, Waldorf and Forest School/nature pedagogy.
Meet Ms. Keely~
Lead Nature Play Teacher
Ms. Keely is a joyful, passionate teacher who believes learning should feel a little bit like an adventure—full of curiosity, creativity, and plenty of laughs along the way. She mixes her classroom experience with a love for the outdoors into engaging, hands‑on lessons that help kids discover their strengths and celebrate their “aha!” moments. When she's not teaching, you’ll almost always find her outside—exploring campgrounds, chasing her toddler son, or recharging in the fresh air with her family—which inspires her belief that wonder belongs in everyday learning. Ms. Keely is all about building real connections, cheering on growth, and creating a warm, upbeat space where children can explore, follow their curiosities and blossom
