Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the program? Our program consists of 17 weeks, broken into 2 semesters. The Fall semester is 7 weeks and runs from late August - early December and the Spring semester is 9 weeks and runs from January - early May.
 

What day is the program on and what are the times? Each program meets every other week. The Inchworms meet from 10:00 am - 11:30 pm. The Trailblazers, and Explorers meet from 10:00 am - 12:30 pm.  The Teen Naturalist program meets from 10:00 pm - 12:30 pm. We ask that students try to arrive 10 minutes early for class. View the calendar here
 

Are there any additional class dates that aren't listed on the calendar? Yes, we will have several optional fieldtrips at local venues. These fieldtrip opportunities will compliment our yearly themes. We may also offer a spring camping trip. All of these opportunities will have extra associated fees.
 

What topics will be covered during the year? Our programs are place-based and focus on Arizona flora and fauna. We want to get back to the traditional "forest" philosophy, so classes will not have set themes, though we will have a rough schedule for the day. We will instead let the desert be our guide and lead us on holistic learning journeys. We will learn through play and exploration in the natural environment. As we do so children will learn about themselves, their peers, and the changing world in which they live. The learning that will take place in desert school will be an ongoing process that develops naturally. We will adapt the sessions in order to suit the interests, motivations and attitude of each unique child, and how it impacts the group dynamic as a whole.

Our Teen Naturalist program will focus on conservation biology to better understand the importance of biodiversity and the effect of humans on species and ecosystems. Students will learn traditional biology topics such  as taxonomy, genetics, evolution, food webs, habitats, population, water, carbon, and nitrogen cycles. Plus they will learn conservation biology topics such as invasive species and disease,  effects of pollution and global warming on the natural world, and  conservation movements. 

How does a typical ECO day look? You can view examples of the schedules on each of the program pages.
 

What ages/grades may attend the program? We will be offering 4 different desert school programs. Our Inchworms program is for toddlers and children in PreK-K, our Trailblazers program is for children in K/1st-3rd, our Explorers program is for children in 4th-7th, and our Teen Naturalist program (Conservation Biology) is for children in 8th-12th. Our ages/grades for each program are recommendations and we trust that you know what content level your child(ren) can handle. So we are ultimately leaving the program selection up to the parents to decide. If you are unsure about which program would be best for your child(ren) please reach out to us via text, phone or email.

• Inchworms program is for toddlers and children in PreK-K grades ages 1-5 years old
• Trailblazers program is for children in K/1st-3rd grades ages 6-9 years old
• Explorers program is for children in 4th-7th grades ages 8-12 years old 
• Teen Naturalist program (Conservation Biology) is for children in 8th-12th grades ages 13-18+ years old

Can my child attend more than one program? Yes, we have some families who want to attend weekly so they attend multiple programs. We do offer an additional discount if you wish to attend more than one program. 

Is the program drop off? Due to my health issues and medical disabilities our programs are no longer drop off. A parent/guardian must remain at class.

For older students who are mature and/or driving themselves we are willing to make exceptions to the no drop-off requirement for our Conservation Biology class only.  The reason we prefer parents stay is due to the educators health issues. However, if you feel your child is capable of handling a medical situation should it arise by calling for help, getting themselves home, etc. then we are willing to make an exception for this program. We trust that parents know the maturity level of their child. You will need to agree to this on the waiver. The educator will have a conversation with students on 1st day and provide instructions for medical emergencies. She also wears a medical ID bracelet. 

How much is the tuition? Please visit the program pages for further details on tuition. We do offer returning student discounts and sibling discounts.

Do you accept late registrations? If a class is not full we do accept registration at anytime throughout the year and will prorate the tuition fee to deduct the cost of any classes your child missed. Classes do not necessarily build upon each other so joining late doesn't hinder your child's experience.

Is Educating Children Outdoors insured? ECO carries liability insurance. You can view our COI here.

What payment methods do you accept? We accept credit cards, Google Pay, and PayPal through our website. We can also accept Venmo, Cash App and Zelle. We are listed as a vendor on Class Wallet as well. 

• Venmo @ecoexplorers
• Zelle 678-457-0802
• Cash App $ecoexplorers

Do you accept ESA? We are an ESA vendor and listed in Class Wallet. To receive an invoice for ESA please select that on the payment screen and we will email you the invoice within 48 hrs so that you can pay using Class Wallet. Please note s 2.5% processing fee will be added to the invoice. 

Do you have scholarships available? We do have a scholarship fund that we are trying to fund so that we can offer scholarships to families that need financial assistance. Funding this account has been slow moving though. We have a couple donation links throughout the website, including the sponsors page. If we don't have any funds available we can try to work out a payment arrangement with you. Please email or text us to discuss scholarship funds or payment arrangements.

Are there sibling discounts? Yes, we offer a $20 sibling discount. We also offer a supply fee option of $50 per semester, for younger siblings that will be tagging along with their older siblings and may not be participating in all of the activities, but do want to do some of them. 

If I register my child(ren) for only the Fall semester is my child(ren) guaranteed a spot in the Spring semester? Yes, we guarantee our Fall only registrations spots in the Spring semester and ask that they confirm they want to attend in the Spring and pay by October 16th.  
 

What is included in the cost of the program? The majority of the class materials are included, except those indicated in the following FAQ. We hope to include several field tools, like a magnifying glass, ruler, etc....we are still trying to find sponsors and/or obtain donations to help purchase these items. Each child enrolled will also receive a nature exploration kit filled with valuable resources including a pencil, bookmark, eraser, bug catcher and more from our sponsors.
 

What materials will I need to provide for classes?  This list includes items that you will need for class or that we recommend you have for class (if possible). 

Where will programs be held?  For now most of our programs will be in the North Phoenix and Glendale area close to the 101. Unfortunately due to my disability I no longer am able to drive and must rely on public transporation which limits my ability to offer programs in as many areas as I used to. I appreciate everyone's understanding as I navigate this new hurdle.

*ECO has no affiliation with these parks and the City of Phoenix, City of Glendale or Maricopa County assume no liability.
 

What about the heat? Since we are an outdoor education program we will be outside during all temperatures and weather conditions. Children should be dressed appropriately for the weather, we always recommend layers. And they should always have plenty of water and a water bottle for each class. All locations will have a a pavilion or ramada. In addition we will have a pop up canopy for additional shade. We recommend bringing a spray bottle with water for misting, small handheld fan, and cooling towel to help stay cool. Our daily schedule may vary as well during hotter days, for example we will do our hike earlier in the day when temperatures are lower. We have had no issues with the heat thus far.
 

What if it rains? Programs are held rain or shine. We will have a pavilion or canopy to provide shelter from the elements. 

What about restrooms? There will be restrooms at all of our locations.
 

How do I know if this program is right for my child? Participating children should have a love for the outdoors, be open to new experiences, be active and be willing to participate in all daily activities (nature journaling, hands on learning activities, citizen scientist projects, arts/crafts and exploratory play). Teen Naturalists should have a desire to dive deeper into learning about and caring for the natural world. They will accomplish this through fieldwork, volunteering and stewardship projects.
 

What if my child misses a class? We understand absences are bound to happen. ECO classes do not necessarily build upon one another so missing a class will not put your child behind or at a disadvantage. We will do our best to keep all children up to date, by posting updates about what we did in class in a wrap-up document that is posted on the ECO Google Classroom (open only to currently enrolled families). When applicable we will provide parents with any resources the children may have missed. No refunds or make-up classes are offered. 

What if there is a crisis event? In the event of intense difficulty, trouble, or danger ECO may need to postpone a class. Depending on the circumstances we may still offer class, but with some modifications. However we understand families need to make choices that are best for their family and we respect your personal decision to not attend class if you choose. In either of these cases we will offer make up class options, make class materials available on Google Classroom and make sure students receive any hard copy resources and materials. Because of how we operate our small business (example: pay teachers in advance, purchase curriculum and supplies in advance, etc.) no refunds will be issued.

After I register my child what happens? After you complete your registration form, agree to the policies and waiver and submit your payment we will review your registration. Please allow up to 48 hrs. After we review and accept your registration and confirm payment has been sent we will send you a confirmation email with a link to join our secret Google Classroom, our contact information, a class schedule and other important information. If you are paying with ESA we will email you an invoice. About 3-5 days before each class we send a reminder email with further details about preparing for each class.
 

What is the Google Classroom? All parents with currently enrolled children will need to join our secret Google Classroom. Here we will share updates about what your children are learning and photos. It is also a good place to ask any questions and communicate with other parents. This program is free and also has a phone app.
 

What about lunch? Programs end by 12:30 pm. If your child needs to eat a snack before 12:30 pm they are welcome to do so. Families are welcome to stick around after class and eat lunch together.
 

What do children need to do, to be prepared for each class? Children MUST be prepared each week for class with the following: 

• Appropriate clothing for the weather, layers are always recommended. Children are encouraged to wear closed toed shoes.
• Wearing their ECO t-shirt (we will make these on the 1st day)
• A snack. PLEASE AVOID any nut products for the safety of the other children (if none of the enrolled students have nut allergies we will let everyone know so you can bring those items).  
• An extra pair of clothes/shoes if it is a rainy day or creek day.
• Insect repellent and sunscreen.
• Their backpack with any necessary supplies for the day.
• Any necessary medications (EPI pen, inhaler, etc) with their name on them.
• A water bottle filled with plenty of water or another beverage to keep they hydrated throughout the day.
• Suggested items to help stay cool: fan, misting water bottle, cooling towel

**If we are expecting to have a wet day we will be sure to alert parents in advance so children can come prepared with extra clothing, water shoes, etc.
 
Is there any mandatory homework?Because our Teen Naturalist program provides a high school credit there will be mandatory homework for those wishing to earn the credit.
 

Will photos be taken of my child? We want parents to be able to see what their children did at class each day so we will be taking photos and posting them onto the Google Classroom each week. We also like to show our social media followers, supporters and sponsors what we are doing at ECO so there is a chance photos could be posted on our social media outlets. When you register your child there is a question on the form that you will need to answer either giving or denying us permission to share your child's photo. We will blur their face out or not share their photo at all if you deny permission. We will never share children's names on social media.
 
My child has an allergy and/or medical, learning, behavior condition will that be an issue? We are an inclusive program and all children are welcome. We comply to ADA standards and welcome everyone and will accommodate anyway we can. Kathy has worked with children that have autism, dwarfism, down syndrome, dyslexia, dyscalculia, food allergies, Asperger's, ADD, anxiety and more. There is a spot on the registration form where you can list out any conditions we should be aware of. Kathy's own children dealt with dyslexia, anxiety, OCD and ADD. And Kathy suffers from several medical conditions (Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, Posterior Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, Adrenal Insufficiency, OCD, anxiety, and dyslexia). If you have concerns about your child's needs before registering please reach out to Kathy. We will try to make any special accommodations necessary.
 

Our family's religion or religious views prevents them from participating in certain things and/or we may have a differing view on certain topics will this be an issue? We welcome all nationalities, ethnicities, races, genders, religions, beliefs and walks of faith. Kathy has taught children from just about every religion, race and ethnicity. Teachers will make every attempt to refrain from mentioning any religion and/or religious beliefs in class. With that being said this is a science heavy program and evolution may come up in some discussions. Generally when Kathy teaches she will mention that evolution is a theory and may differ from from others views/beliefs and that she is in no way discounting anyone's personal views/beliefs. Teaching evolution is not our focus and it is something that may just come up casually in some discussions.  

In addition we strongly feel that the Native cultures should be discussed and included in our program's curriculum, especially here in Arizona, where we are lucky enough to still have so much of the past preserved for future generations. Today, Arizona is the proud home to 22 sovereign American Indian communities that serve as the foundational recipe to Arizona’s unique spiritual, cultural, and economic richness. Many of the topics we will be focusing on in the ECO program tie into Native culture (like the canal systems which we learned from and still rely on today) and there is so much we can learn about the natural world from those who lived off the land, long before we were here. As you can see we even included the Native cultures on our new Arizona logo. 

 
And lastly due to the many varying views on holidays, holiday celebrations will be refrained from being celebrated at ECO.   
 

What about politics, is that something that gets brought up in class? We know politics can be a touchy subject, just like religion, so we try to avoid any politic debates. However, there are times it could come up in discussions: like when discussing water rights, conservation, land management, agricultural growth, climate change etc. Again no personal views will be imposed and we will encourage children to make up their own mind on the subject, discuss it with their parents or research it further.  

What types of curriculum are used for planning programs? Our programs, with the exception of the Teen Naturalist program,  are child led and educator facilitated and based off of the forest school model. Some of the other philosophies and approaches we incorporate into our programs include Reggio, Waldorf, Montessori, Charlotte Mason. Some of the curriculums we frequently utilize activities from for all of our programs include Project Wild, Growing Wild, Project Wet, Project Learning Tree, Green Teacher, Flying Wild, AZGFD Focus Wild, Aquatic Wild, Good and Beautiful, Coyote's Guide, Nature Scope Guides, Aldo Leopold Curriculum, Young Naturalists. 

Do the programs follow state standards? We do provide a syllabus for the Teen Naturalist class which includes AZ State Standards, Next Generation Science Standards, and NAEE Guidelines. We also include vocabulary, skills, and subjects that will be covered. 

State standards are not our primary focus for our other programs though we can assure you many will probably be touched on.

Are family members such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc allowed to attend classes? Yes, we believe that including extended family in your homeschool journey is important and welcome them at class. 

Parent Involvement Questions:  

What is required of parents? It is the parents responsibility to make sure their children arrive on time for class and that they supervise their children. Parents should also make sure they have gone over behavior expectations with their children.

ECO Leader Related Questions: 

Where can I learn more about the Leaders? Please visit our ECO Leaders page.
 

What is the student to Leader ratio? There will be 12 openings in the programs. There will be 1 ECO Leader for most programs and possibly an additional aid for some of the programs. Programs are not drop off so parents are also present for classes.
 

Are ECO instructors first aid certified and CPR certified? All ECO Leaders are CPR and first aid certified through 2025.

I am interested in being an ECO Teacher and/or Aide or starting a chapter, how can I learn more about those opportunities? We have hired all of the help we need for the 2024-2025 school year, but we may have openings in the future. We are always looking to start new chapters in Arizona. Please complete this interest form and we will be in touch. 

If you have additional questions please email us. 

What drop-in programs are offered? We will be offering a variety of drop-in program options throughout the year which are great for those unable to commit to our yearly/semester programs and/or who want  more themed focus content. 

• Wildlife wonders programs
• Nature journaling club
• Nature-themed book club
• Tree hugger club
• Survival skills/bushcraft classes
• Family hikes
• Youth bird outings

How long are drop-in programs? Drop-in programs are reoccurring throughout the year from August-May. 

What day are the drop-in programs on and what are the times? Each drop-in program occurs once-twice a month and are typically 1-2 hours from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm. View the calendar here

What ages/grades may attend drop-in programs? Ages are specified on program pages. We offer programs for PreK-12th grade.

Can my child attend more than one program? Yes you can attend as many drop-in programs you'd like. 

Are the programs drop off? Due to my medical disabilities our programs are no longer drop off. A parent/guardian must remain at class.

What is the cost of drop-in programs? Please visit the program pages for further details on cost.

Is Educating Children Outdoors insured? ECO carries liability insurance. You can view our COI here.

What payment methods do you accept? We accept credit cards, Google Pay, and PayPal through our website. We can also accept Venmo, Cash App and Zelle. We are listed as a vendor on  Class Wallet as well. 

• Venmo @ecoexplorers
• Zelle 678-457-0802
• Cash App $ecoexplorers

Do you accept ESA? We are an ESA vendor and listed in Class Wallet. To receive an invoice for  ESA please select that on the payment screen and we will email you the  invoice within 48 hrs so that you can pay using Class Wallet. Please note s 2.5% processing fee will be added to the invoice.

Where will programs be held?  For now our programs will be in the North Phoenix area. We are still narrowing down the exact location where programs will be held, but they will be close to the 101. Unfortunately due to my disability I no longer am able to drive and must rely on public transporation which limits my ability to offer programs in as many areas as I used to. I appreciate  everyone's understanding as I navigate this new hurdle.

*ECO has no affiliation with these parks and the City of Phoenix and Maricopa County assume no liability.
 

What about the heat? Since we are an outdoor education program we will be outside during all temperatures and weather conditions. Children should be dressed  appropriately for the weather, we always recommend layers. And they should always have plenty of water and a water bottle for each class. All locations will have a a pavilion or ramada. In addition we will have  a pop up canopy for additional shade. We recommend bringing a spray  bottle with water for misting, small handheld fan, and cooling towel to help stay cool. Our daily schedule may vary as well during hotter days,  for example we will do our hike earlier in the day when temperatures are  lower. We have had no issues with the heat thus far.
 

What if it rains? Programs are held rain or shine. We will have a pavilion or canopy to provide shelter from the elements. 

What about restrooms? There will be restrooms at all of our locations.
 

How do I know if a program is right for my child? Participating children should have a love for the outdoors, be open to new  experiences, be active and be willing to participate in all daily activities (nature journaling, hands on learning activities, citizen scientist projects, arts/crafts and exploratory play). 

Will photos be taken of my child? We want parents to be able to see what their children did at class each day so we will be taking photos and posting them onto the Google Classroom each week. We also like to show our social media followers, supporters and sponsors what we are doing at ECO so there is a chance photos could be posted on our social media outlets. When you register your child there is a question on the form that you will need to answer either giving or denying us permission to share your child's photo. We will blur their face out or not share their photo at all if you deny permission. We will never share children's names on social media.

My child has an allergy and/or medical, learning, behavior condition will that be an issue? We are an inclusive program and all children are welcome. We comply to ADA standards and welcome everyone and will accommodate anyway we can. Kathy has worked with children that have autism, dwarfism, down syndrome, dyslexia, dyscalculia, food allergies, Asperger's, ADD, anxiety and more. There is a spot on the registration form where you can list out any conditions we should be aware of. Kathy's own children dealt with dyslexia, anxiety, OCD and ADD. And Kathy suffers from several medical conditions (Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, Posterior Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, Adrenal Insufficiency, OCD, anxiety, and dyslexia). If you have concerns about your child's needs before registering please reach out to Kathy. We will try to make any special accommodations necessary.

What types of curriculum are used for planning lessons? Our programs, with the exception of the Teen Naturalist program,  are child led and educator facilitated and based off of the forest school model. Some of the other philosophies and approaches we incorporate into our programs include Reggio, Waldorf, Montessori, Charlotte Mason. Some of the curriculums we frequently utilize activities from for all of our programs include Project Wild, Growing Wild, Project Wet, Project Learning Tree, Green Teacher, Flying Wild, AZGFD Focus Wild, Aquatic Wild, Good and Beautiful, Coyote's Guide, Nature Scope Guides, Aldo Leopold Curriculum, Young Naturalists. 

What platform is used for online classes? We use Zoom for our classes.

After I register my child what happens? After  you complete your registration form, agree to the policies and waiver and submit your payment we will review your registration. Please allow up to 48 hrs. After we review and accept your registration and confirm  payment has been sent we will send you a confirmation email with a link  to join our secret Google Classroom, our contact information, a class schedule and other important information. If you are paying with ESA we will email you an invoice. About 3-5 days before each class we send a  reminder email with further details about preparing for each class.
 

What is the Google Classroom? All parents with currently enrolled children will need to join our secret Google Classroom. Here we will share updates about what your children are learning and  photos. It is also a good place to ask any questions and communicate  with other parents. This program is free and also has a phone app.

Is there any mandatory homework? Because our Teen Naturalist program provides a high school credit there will be  mandatory homework for those wishing to earn the credit.