How is Nature Scouts different from other nature programs in San Diego?
Nature Scouts Collective was founded in 2019, making us one of the earliest nature-based enrichment programs in San Diego County. What sets us apart is our half-day curriculum that blends outdoor exploration with hands-on STEM, art, literacy, and inquiry-based learning grounded in Reggio Emilia and forest school principles. Children aren’t just playing outside, they are reaping the research-backed benefits of connecting deeply with nature, discovering science, building problem-solving skills, strengthening environmental stewardship, and so much more!
Is Nature Scouts a safe program since children are outdoors?
Safety is our top priority. Our trained educators are CPR/First-Aid certified, fingerprinted, and experienced in outdoor risk assessment. We follow strict supervision ratios, create boundaries at each site, and teach children age-appropriate outdoor safety skills while still allowing healthy exploration.
What ages can participate in Nature Scouts?
Our enrichment classes are designed for children ages 2–12. Nature Scouts Collective now offers five age-based programs: Tiny Scouts (ages 2-5 + parent/caregiver), Little Scouts (4-6), Adventure Scouts (5-10), Junior Scouts (6-9), & Survival Scouts (9-12).
What is your refund/cancellation policy?
Our 2025-2026 program will run from September 8 – May 22 and enrollment will be for the entire school year. There are no mid-semester withdrawals allowed. There are no withdrawals allowed after August 1 for the Fall semester and December 19 for the Spring semester. Exceptions to this policy may be granted only in cases of documented family or medical emergencies and will require 30 days written notice.
What happens if my child misses a class?
There are no refunds for missed classes due to illnesses, travel, etc. However, if a class is canceled by Nature Scouts, then you will be offered a makeup or refund for that class.
What does my child need to bring to a class?
Your child should plan to bring a backpack with a water bottle, hat, sunscreen, snack, lunch, and extra clothes (all labeled with the child’s name).
How do I pay for the classes?
We are using Brightwheel for our registration and billing system. If you are paying monthly out of pocket, payment will be due on the first of each month. If you are enrolled with a charter school you will need to submit a request to your homeschool teacher.
Where are Nature Scouts Collective classes held?
Our two main locations are at wonderful county parks in North County San Diego: Guajome Regional Park (Tu/Th) on the Oceanside/Vista border and San Dieguito County Park (M/W) in Solana Beach/Rancho Santa Fe. Additionally, we have special events and classes at area beaches such as Moonlight Beach, as well as city parks.
What do community days look like?
Community and connection are the foundation of our program. We offer field trips & community days, as well as seasonal events and family camping trips to continue to create meaningful relationships between the families and kids. ALL families are welcome and encouraged to participate on these days!
How do you handle weather changes at a nature-based program?
We operate rain or shine (or in miraculous rare occasions, snow in San Diego; hey, it’s happened a couple of times). We monitor weather closely and adjust our plans for high heat, rain, or wind. If conditions are unsafe, the day will be adapted or relocated.
Does outdoor learning help children’s development?
Yes! Research shows that nature-immersive learning supports cognitive development, independence, gross motor skills, emotional regulation, social connection, and creativity, all while fostering curiosity and resilience.
Is this considered a forest school program?
Nature Scouts Collective is inspired by forest school and Reggio Emilia philosophy. Children learn through hands-on play and inquiry-based activities that connect them to local ecosystems.
What is your class size and student-to-teacher ratio?
We keep our groups intentionally small, like a nature pod, typically 1 teacher for every 6 children (1:6) to ensure safety, connection, and personalized learning outdoors.
Do you work with charter schools and accept charter school funding?
Yes! We accept charter school funds for eligible families. If you are enrolled with a charter for PCA, SoCal Scholars or Cabrillo Point, let us know and we’ll provide submitting instructions.
Can homeschool families join Nature Scouts Collective?
Absolutely. Homeschoolers love our outdoor learning community as a weekly enrichment opportunity that builds social skills and environmental awareness.
What should my child wear for outdoor classes?
We recommend weather-appropriate layers and closed-toe shoes.
Do parents stay during class?
Classes are designed as drop-off so children can gain confidence and independence in nature. However, we also now offer a Tiny Scouts mommy-and-me class once a week where parents stay with their child(ren).
Do you offer seasonal camps or school-break programs?
Yes! We host Fall, Spring, and Summer nature camps, including one-day adventure camps during holiday breaks. These fill quickly so early registration is recommended! View our Nature Camps page for more info.
