After school Explorers (ages 3-5)


Afternoon Explorers (3-5yo) - Thursdays, August 21-October 30 (skip 10/18) 3:30-5pm, $420, with Rebecca Walsh REGISTER HERE

This is similar to our Outdoor Nature Explorers groups, but is a drop-off program for your child only.

Why Take This Class?

🌿 Deepen Your Child’s Connection to Nature
Each week offers a chance to explore the natural world in meaningful, hands-on ways. Children will investigate insects, worms, mud, leaves, sticks, and trees—and use natural materials in creative art projects.

🤸 Support Physical Development Through Movement and Play
Nature provides the ultimate sensory gym. Children will challenge their bodies on uneven terrain, develop strength and coordination, and build confidence through safe, age-appropriate risk-taking like climbing and balancing.

🧠 Build Early Learning Foundations
Guided by experienced educators, children will practice following directions, learning routines, and participating in group activities—key skills to support preschool readiness.

👫 Encourage Healthy Peer Interaction
Through play, observation, and guided exploration, children naturally build social skills by engaging with others their age. Peer learning is powerful—especially in early childhood.

👩‍🏫 Led by Expert Educators
Our teachers are experienced Early Childhood Educators who specialize in child-led, nature-based learning. They gently support each child’s emotional, cognitive, and social development while fostering a love of the outdoors.

Important Note

This is an afternoon drop-off class for children ages 3-5. Caregivers do not attend. Children must be ready for a short, gentle separation, and teachers will support them as they adjust.

What Parents Are Saying

"I still have such fond memories from our days spent exploring nature throughout SF! Your classes helped our family so much in those first years. It's still astonishing—my child was slow to warm, but the confidence he gained continues to shine. Thanks for a 'gift' that keeps on giving."
— Former Explorers parent of a now-elementary-aged child

"We absolutely loved Explorers! Rebecca helped the kids connect, and my shy son quickly felt comfortable and LOVED going each week. The structure, pace, and thoughtful guidance were perfect. I also learned so many hidden nature spots in SF I now return to often!"
— Parent of a former Explorers student

About Our Nature Playgroups

The latest research confirms what many parents intuitively know—regular time in nature is essential for healthy brain and body development. Our Play-and-Learn Explorers classes offer an enriching, screen-free way for young children to engage with the world around them.

Classes will be held in Golden Gate Park.

Each session includes:

  • Child-led nature exploration

  • Circle time with songs and storytelling

  • Yoga and movement

  • Puppet shows

  • Weekly topics related to toddler development

Email info@earlychildhoodmatters.org for more details or if you have any questions.

Supporting families on the road to connected and effective parenting.

parenting workshops * parent/toddler playgroups * presentations * private consultations

Email kellam@earlychildhoodmatters.org if you are interested in finding out about sliding scale tuition for our parenting series, mom’s groups, and playgroups. We are happy to help support parents who are in a situation where these courses might otherwise be cost prohibitive.

Our cancellation policy:

Full refund 30 days or more (less a 20% transaction fee), less than 14 days before the start of class a 40% refund will be granted, unless the participant finds a replacement to fill their spot, less than 7 days participants will be responsible for paying the full amount of the class/series price, unless they find a replacement participant to fill their spot. Please note that Summer camps are non-refundable.