Learning Through Nature

Nature Scouts Collective (formerly Little Scouts Nature Classes) offers outdoor homeschool enrichment programs and seasonal nature camps for children ages 2–11 in North County San Diego. Rooted in Forest School and Reggio Emilia principles, our small-group learning environment nurtures curiosity, confidence, creativity, and connection through child-led exploration in nature.

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Our Mission

Nature Scouts is dedicated to nurturing children's innate curiosity and sense of wonder through meaningful experiences in nature that foster growth, connection, stewardship, and lifelong learning.

Through child-led exploration, meaningful relationships, and immersive outdoor experiences, we help children develop confidence, resilience, creativity, and a lifelong connection to the natural world.

Our Programs

Outdoor Programs for Every Stage of Childhood

🌱 Tiny Scouts (Ages 2–5): Parent-and-child nature classes that encourage exploration, connection, and early childhood discovery through songs, stories, sensory experiences, and outdoor play.

🌿 Little Scouts (Ages 4–6): Hands-on nature learning through storytelling, art, science exploration, nature study, and imaginative play.

🌲 Junior Scouts (Ages 7–11): Outdoor enrichment focused on ecology, natural sciences, environmental stewardship, leadership, mapping, survival skills, and project-based learning.

☀️ Seasonal Nature Camps: Summer and seasonal camps filled with outdoor adventures, creative projects, science investigations, games, and nature exploration.

Explore Our Programs

What Makes Nature Scouts Different

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100% Outdoor Learning

Learning through direct experiences in nature.

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Small Group Classes

Meaningful relationships with teachers and peers.

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Child-Led Exploration

Following children’s interests and curiosity.

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Forest School & Reggio Inspired

Hands-on, inquiry-based learning.

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Homeschool Community

Building friendships and connection.

Our Core Values

The Heart of Nature Scouts

🌱 Respect for Self, Others & Nature

We cultivate kindness, empathy, responsibility, and respect for all living things.

🌱 Community & Connection

Meaningful relationships with peers, families, and nature are at the heart of our program.

🌱 Growth Mindset & Resilience

Outdoor challenges help children develop confidence, perseverance, and adaptability.

🌱 Environmental Stewardship

Children develop a deep appreciation for the natural world through direct experiences and conservation-minded practices.

🌱 Curiosity & Wonder

We encourage children to ask questions, investigate, and discover.

🌱 Independence & Leadership

Children are empowered to take ownership of their learning and become capable, confident leaders.

Why Outdoor Learning Matters

The Benefits of Nature-Based Education

Research consistently shows that regular time in nature supports children’s:

✔ Social-emotional development

✔ Physical health and well-being

✔ Creativity and problem-solving skills

✔ Focus and attention

✔ Confidence and resilience

✔ Environmental awareness and stewardship

At Nature Scouts, children don’t just learn about nature—they learn through nature.

Outdoor Kids Are
Healthier Kids!!

Numerous studies (like this one) show that spending time in nature benefits childrens’ intellectual, emotional, social and physical development.

Nature stimulates all the senses and provides countless opportunities for discovery, creativity, problem-solving, and STEM learning.

Testimonials

“Nature Scouts Collective is the perfect program to weave into your homeschooling. Erika is a gem. She sees our kids, she honors their uniqueness, she supports their needs, and she creates an environment for them to thrive. Emotional intelligence, courage, kindness, strong communication, and awareness of the environment around are just a few of the life skills that are cultivated at Little Scouts with ease and grace. I could go on and on singing the praises of this program, but I'll end by saying that every time I pick up my happy kiddo, I wish I could have something like this for adults!! It's such a gift.”
-Deena Barselah

“What a blessing, to find Nature Scouts Collective. Being outdoors in a “class” has been so nurturing for my 4 year old son. I love the mixed age style and the child led approach. And most of all, the things they experience and learn about are relevant to our life at home too. Their peaceful place, which my son has been enjoying as a place to recenter and regroup during class, has been re-created in our own home by him. This has inspired me to rearrange a room in my house to create a space like that for myself too. I’m so grateful for this community. They have brought so much peace and love into our lives.”
-Natasha Browdoski

“My children absolutely love Nature Scouts Collective! I’ve sat in on several classes and I’m so in love with the flow and the energy Ms. Erika radiates. It warms my heart to see mindfulness and gratitude so authentically weaved into their days. I value the creativity and playfulness Erika brings to their experience. I can see and feel she genuinely cares for the children and their families. I love how their practices trickle into our daily life, such as singing blessings and mindful minutes during eating times.The seeds Erika is planting into these young hearts are so powerful and I’m honored to have the opportunity for my children to be a part of this wonderful program!”
-Haylea Adams

“I am so happy we made the choice to join Nature Scouts Collective! Erika has not only attracted a wonderful community but her teaching skills are truly impressive. She is someone who listens to the child and shows them the baby steps of inspiration and lets them make the discoveries on their own. I had the opportunity to witness some spontaneous bridge building and it was amazing teaching. She is truly gifted. I am so thankful for all the heart and energy she brings to the kids. It's simply beautiful.”
-Serena Silberman