Program | Wildwoodnature

Nature Explorers

At Wildwood Nature Explorers, we meet twice a week, rain or shine, to create an immersive, nature-based learning experience for homeschool families. Our gatherings take place at local hiking trails and parks, where children and their families can explore the outdoors regardless of the weather. We meet weekly, once for Nature School, where children engage in hands-on activities, and once for a Park Day, offering ample opportunities for robust play and free exploration, embracing many of the principles of Forest School.

Hands-On Growth

We believe in an inquiry-led approach to learning, allowing children to take ownership of their experience and develop important life skills such as resilience, problem-solving, critical thinking, conflict resolution, cause-and-effect understanding, and risk assessment. Parents and/or guardians must remain onsite with their child, actively supporting and guiding the learning experience in a way that honors each child’s individual pace and needs. We are community-centered, fostering a deep connection to self, friendships, and our environment. We call this Regenerative Education.

Our Activities

Our Nature School days follow a rhythmic curriculum, rotating through enriching themes such as Hike Days, STEAM Days, Nature Journal Days, Community Games, and Skills Labs. These activities provide children and parents with varied ways to connect with nature, build critical thinking skills, and explore their surroundings. Whether we're hiking through local trails, experimenting with science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM), or reflecting in nature journals, each day is designed to encourage exploration and growth at a child’s own pace.

Community & Events

In addition to our regular sessions, we also host occasional festivals, celebrations, field trips, and campouts, giving families the opportunity to deepen their connections and celebrate the seasons and milestones together. While younger siblings are welcome to attend, our enrolled students must be between grades 1 through 12. We encourage families to let their children participate in the program at their own pace, creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where everyone can learn, grow, and explore.

Documents

How to Register PDF

Codes of Conduct PDF

Recommended Gear and Supplies PDF

Medical Liability Waiver PDF

General Liability Waiver PDF

Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

Q1: What is Wildwood Nature Explorers?
A1: Wildwood Nature Explorers is an educational nonprofit dedicated to fostering an inclusive, all-weather, nature-based learning community for homeschooling families. We gather twice a week—rain or shine—for enriching, hands-on educational experiences in the outdoors.

Q2: Is this a drop off program?
A2: Wildwood Nature Explorers is a family-participation program and not a drop-off service. A parent or guardian must remain onsite and responsible for their child(ren) at all times during our sessions and events. Wildwood Nature Explorers does not act in loco parentis and does not assume responsibility for the supervision, care, or custody of participating children.

Q3: What is Regenerative Education?
A3: Regenerative Education sees learning as an interconnected ecosystem where knowledge, relationships, and the environment all support and enrich one another. Just as a healthy ecosystem thrives on balance and reciprocity, we learn together by exploring our connections to ourselves, to others, and to the places we call home. Valuing community as a vital source of support, this shared journey nurtures a deep sense of stewardship for the earth, wildlife, and communities, with parents guiding and everyone modeling these values for siblings and friends—rooting learning in care, responsibility, and renewal.

Q4: Do you take charter school funds/vouchers?
A4: Wildwood Nature Explorers is not a vendor with any charter school and does not accept charter school funds for enrollment or tuition payments. However, families enrolled in a charter school may be able to use their charter funds to purchase eligible supplies related to our program. We recommend discussing this option with your HST (Homeschool Teacher) or charter school leadership to determine what is permitted under your school's guidelines.

Q5: Are you Secular?

A5: Yes, Wildwood Nature Explorers is a secular program. Any mention of religion is solely for educational or academic context.

Q6: Does your program endorse DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion)?

A6: Yes. We are an inclusive, secular program that welcomes all identities and backgrounds. We are neurodiverse-affirming and disability-inclusive, with a zero-tolerance policy for racism, discrimination, or proselytizing. Respect for others’ pronouns, identities, and beliefs is required.

Q7: Where are you located?
A7: While our corporate headquarters is located in Georgetown, California, our regular gatherings take place at local parks and trails in the Lotus area. We also occasionally explore other environments and visit special venues for field trips and unique events.

Enrollment & Participation

Q8: How do I enroll or sign up?
A8: Wildwood Nature Explorers opens for enrollment twice a year. There is a link to our enrollment application process on our website. Just click the ENROLL NOW button.

Q9: What is the age range for participants?
A9: We recognize that homeschoolers develop skills at their own pace, often varying by age and readiness. That’s why we group participants by grade level—serving students from 1st through 12th grade—rather than strictly by age.

Q10: Can younger siblings attend?
A10: We understand that homeschooling often involves the whole family, and we welcome younger siblings to join in the experience when appropriate. However, please note that some activities may not be suitable for younger children, and certain experiences or materials may be reserved for enrolled students only, as supplies are planned based on enrollment numbers.

Q11: Are there any prerequisites or requirements?
A11: To enroll, families must complete the application, sign all required waivers, and have paid all student tuition fees to secure spot. Enrollment is open to homeschooling families with students in 1st through 12th grade. Space is limited and is first come, first serve.

Schedule & Fees

Q12: What are your operating hours/days?
A12: Our nature school days are Tuesdays from 1 to 4 PM and our Thursday optional Park Days are from 1 to 3 PM every week, rain or shine.

Q13: What are the fees or costs?
A13: Each semester includes a non refundable $50 per family administrative fee taken from the first enrolled child's $200 fee. Each additional child enrolled is less the administrative fee and includes a multi sibling discount 10% discount equating to $135 for additional enrolled sibling after the first. Parents/guardians are responsible for any park entry fees, gear, or supplies needed. (See our gear list for recommended gear here)

Q14: Do you offer scholarships or financial assistance?
A14: Wildwood Nature Explorers is committed to supporting families of all income levels. We offer a scholarship fund for those needing tuition assistance—please contact us at finance@wildwoodnatureexplorers.org to learn more.

Policies & Safety

Q15: What is your cancellation/refund policy?
A15: There is a $50 per family non-refundable administrative fee included in the enrollment fees of the first enrolled student. A refund of the remaining student enrollment fees may be issued if the member cancels their participation in writing or email for an activity, class, or event prior to the ordering of group supplies (July 31st for Fall Semester and December 1st for Spring). This takes into account any pre-paid fees or expenses that Wildwood Nature Explorers may have incurred in preparation for the activities or event. Refunds are not transferable to other members or events unless specifically approved by the organization’s leadership. Cancellations must be communicated to Wildwood Nature Explorers leadership in writing or via email at finance@wildwoodnatureexplorers.org

Q16: What are your safety procedures?
A16: All events will have at least one staff member trained in First Aid. Safety reminders will be given at the beginning of each meeting when appropriate. In the case of minor injuries, parents will be notified and provided with details about the incident. For serious injuries, immediate action will be taken to seek medical attention.

NOTE: In extreme weather conditions (e.g., thunderstorms, high winds, extreme heat, or unsafe roadway conditions such as snowstorms or ice), sessions may be adjusted or canceled to ensure the safety of all participants.

Contact & More Info

Q17: How can I contact you for more questions?
A17: If you have additional questions, please contact us at info@wildwoodnatureexplorers.org or call us at 530-207-0038.

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