A 2026 study of more than 50,000 U.S. kids found links between heavy screen use and mental health concerns. One finding stood out: physical activity may play a much bigger role in that connection than many parents realize.
ErikaSeptember 30, 2026
Adventure Scouts: Coastal Explorers is a 6-week outdoor program for kids ages 5–9 featuring marine biology, STEM, nature study, hiking and hands-on exploration at North County beaches, lagoons and coastal habitats.
ErikaSeptember 1, 2026
Nature can support children’s mental well-being long before there’s a problem. Learn how outdoor time may reduce stress, restore attention, encourage physical activity and build resilience.
ErikaAugust 28, 2026
As kindergarten becomes increasingly academic, play is getting pushed aside. But research and classroom experience suggest that play-based learning can help children develop academic knowledge, creativity, social skills, independence, and a genuine love of learning.
ErikaAugust 13, 2026
Nature does more than give children a break from screens and schoolwork. It helps them strengthen six essential abilities involving thinking, emotions, movement, creativity, relationships and adaptability.
ErikaAugust 3, 2026
Child psychologists recommend nature-based play to help children build confidence, creativity, resilience and emotional regulation. Emerging medical research is also exploring how outdoor education may support children experiencing chronic stress and adversity.
ErikaJuly 28, 2026
A five-year study found that smartphone use was more strongly associated with shorter sleep in children than television or computer use. Here’s what parents should know and why meaningful outdoor experiences can help children spend more time engaged with the…
ErikaJuly 22, 2026
Inspired by Finland’s new nature guide and the Scandinavian forest school model, Nature Scouts Collective brings child-led, nature-immersive outdoor learning to coastal North County San Diego.
ErikaJuly 3, 2026
Researchers in the Netherlands are studying whether children who spend more time playing in nature may have lower allergy risk. For families in North County San Diego, the bigger reminder is clear: kids need more time outside, away from screens…
ErikaJune 10, 2026
