Before You Pack Your Little’s Backpack (FAQs!)

  • We welcome children ages 3–7, always together with a parent or caregiver.

  • Nope 😊 Our sessions are designed for children and caregivers to attend together. We believe connection grows when families are part of the rhythm. Caregivers join in circle times and stories, and can step back during play and creative invitations.

  • Not at all 😊 Families register one month at a time, for as many months as they wish. Each month is its own commitment, which keeps things flexible for different schedules and seasons. Many families love staying with us long-term, but you’re welcome to join for the months that best fit your family’s rhythm.

  • We meet in beautiful San Diego parks and green spaces. For safety and privacy, exact locations are shared only with enrolled families through our monthly calendar. We rotate parks monthly.

  • A water bottle, nourishing snack, weather-appropriate clothing, and a change of clothes for muddy play. We’ll provide all materials for art and exploration.

  • We love embracing the seasons! With the right gear, rain days can be some of the most magical. If conditions are unsafe (like lightning, extreme heat, or poor air quality), we will cancel and notify families promptly.

  • Yes! With an annual membership, siblings receive a discounted session rate. (Membership is per child; all siblings must be members to receive the sibling rate.)

  • All art materials, process-art supplies, and nature-play invitations are included in your tuition. There are no hidden supply fees.

  • No, we operate as a nature-enrichment program. We are not a licensed childcare facility; families attend together.

  • Beautifully! Children thrive in mixed-age environments. They naturally practice patience, empathy, and collaboration. Older children shine with confidence as they guide and model, while younger ones absorb new skills by watching and joining in. It’s community learning at its best — just like family, but outdoors.

  • Yes! Our sessions flow naturally in both Spanish and English, with an intentional focus on Spanish immersion. Language is woven into our rhythm through songs, stories, conversations, and play. Children aren’t given “lessons” — instead, they pick up and explore both languages joyfully, at their own pace.

  • Safety is always our top priority.
    Our small group size and high adult-to-child ratio allow us to stay closely connected and attentive throughout the day.

    We teach children how to move through nature with confidence and care—using rhythm, clear boundaries, and mutual respect. From learning how to climb safely to tuning into their surroundings, we gently support them in developing awareness and responsibility.

    We have emergency protocols in place for a wide range of situations, and always carry well-stocked first aid kits and binders with emergency contacts and medical information.
    Preparedness is part of the care we offer—so your little ones can explore freely, and you can feel at ease.

  • Nurtured Oak is guided by Marianna Corrales, mama of two and founder. She holds a background in Clinical Psychology, specialized training in Early Childhood Education, and certifications as both a Montessori Guide (AMS-accredited) and Nature-Based Educator. With over eight years of experience supporting children and families, Marianna blends professional training with her heart as a parent to create a safe, joyful, and nurturing space.

  • We’re in the process of becoming approved vendors with local charter schools. As approvals are finalized, we’ll update families so they can use charter funds for enrollment.

  • Safety is always our top priority. With small groups (maximum 10 children) and caregivers present at every session, we stay closely connected and attentive.

    We teach children how to move through nature with confidence and care — using rhythm, clear boundaries, and mutual respect. From learning how to climb safely to tuning into their surroundings, we gently support them in developing awareness and responsibility.

    Our guides are certified in Wilderness First Aid and CPR, and all staff undergo background checks. We also carry well-stocked first aid kits and binders with emergency contacts and medical information at every session. Preparedness is part of the care we offer — so your little ones can explore freely, and you can feel at ease.

  • We use an emergent, nature-based approach. That means activities grow from children’s curiosity, the seasons, and the world around us — instead of a rigid plan. Think stories, songs, and art as seeds that spark open-ended exploration.