Our Roots
I started Wild Things Outdoor Learning out of a passion for teaching and doing so out in nature. My years as a classroom teacher have taken me all over the world and taught me so many different ways and styles of teaching. I have been fortunate to try my hand at many of those ways. Outdoor learning is what I keep coming back to. Kids creating their own learning journey through play and exploration is what I keep coming back to. Becoming a mama to my own little ones has made me want to take the leap outside of the traditional classroom and build something for them that I have great confidence will allow them to nurture and further grow into the independent, curious, kind and inquisitive people that I already see inside of them. I would love to be able to do the same for children all over! I hope that Wild Things Outdoor Learning will continue to grow and reach children throughout the Conejo Valley and beyond!
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Sincerely,
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Amanda Griffith
Founder and Teacher
FAQs
What is a nature preschool, and how does it differ from a traditional preschool?
Wild Things Outdoor Learning is a nature preschool that prioritizes outdoor exploration and experiential learning. Unlike traditional preschools, our curriculum is centered around play and exploration in natural environments, fostering a deeper connection with nature and promoting holistic child development.
What are the benefits of outdoor learning and experiential education for young children?
At Wild Things, our approach to outdoor learning promotes social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development. Through play, exploration, and supported risk-taking, children develop confidence, collaboration skills, resilience, and independence, all while fostering a lifelong love for nature.
How do you foster socialization and peer interaction in an outdoor learning environment?
Through group activities, cooperative play, and reflective discussions, children develop social skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. We prioritize positive interactions and communication, creating a supportive community where every child feels valued and included.
How do you ensure children are academically prepared for kindergarten while following a nature-focused curriculum?
Our fluid curriculum integrates academic readiness activities into outdoor experiences, promoting pre-reading, pre-writing, math, science, art, and music skills through hands-on exploration and play. We track each child's individual growth and provide regular communication with parents to support their development and readiness for kindergarten.
How do you ensure safety and supervision during outdoor activities?
Safety is our top priority at Wild Things. We maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio, and our experienced staff prioritizes supervision and risk management during outdoor adventures. We also provide necessary equipment and adhere to safety protocols in all weather conditions.
What role does outdoor education play in preparing children for future academic success?
Our outdoor education curriculum goes beyond traditional classroom instruction to cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and environmental awareness, laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning and academic achievement.
What makes experiential learning a valuable educational approach for homeschooling families?
Wild Things Outdoor Learning in Westlake offers homeschooling families a dynamic and engaging curriculum that integrates real-world experiences, outdoor adventures, and collaborative projects, empowering children to take ownership of their learning journey and thrive academically and personally.
What kind of curriculum do you follow, and how is it integrated into outdoor experiences?
Our curriculum emphasizes social and emotional learning alongside academic readiness. Through daily explorations and activities, children develop communication skills, cooperation, empathy, and foundational academic skills such as pre-reading, pre-writing, math, science, art, and music, all within the natural environment.