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Sarah grew up in Vermont and moved to the Bay Area 6 years ago. During COVID, her daughter Willow was a baby so she spent her time exploring all the hiking trails around with Willow and her dog, Tui. The woods are her happy place and Sarah loves showing others how fun it is to be in nature! Her kiddos Willow and Alder enjoy hiking as well and finding all the edible plants they can find!
Sarah will be guiding the Forest Explorers Program on WEDNESDAYS: 330-530 PM (Alternate week)
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Pranali came to the Bay Area in Jan 2020, after living in the Midwest for a little under a decade to pursue her Master’s Education and a job. Bay Area offered a big change from the cold weather and made going out possible all year round, something Pranali loves!
She’s been taking her baby out for short walks since she was a few months old. She slowly started planning hikes for her family, after their baby turned a year old.
She has organized kid’s events at her previous job and at local community gatherings, conducted kid friendly outings around the Bay Area and enjoys working with little ones and their families whenever an opportunity presents itself!
Pranali will be guiding the Forest Explorers Program on SATURDAYS: 930-1130 AM (1st & 3rd weekends)
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Mahsa has been a city girl growing up, and the outdoors was never really part of her world growing up. Her husband Mehdi and her both lived pretty urban lifestyles.
But during the pandemic, like many families, they craved open space, fresh air, and something different from the screens and stress. They started exploring local parks and trails.
From hiking to their first camping trips 2 years ago to today, nature has become a place to reset, reconnect, and grow as a family.
Mahsa will be guiding the Forest Explorers program on SUNDAYS: 930-1130 AM (2nd & 4th weekends)
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Jennifer is a Santa Cruz native with a lifelong passion for camping. She has recently developed a love for hiking and backpacking. Her husband and her enjoy a mix of camping experiences, from glamping in their trailer to more rugged backpacking adventures.
Our daughter is a true adventurer at heart. She thrives on getting dirty, climbing everything in sight, and embracing new experiences.
When they’re not exploring nature, you can find them enjoying local music or spending time at the beach. They make it a point to get outside every day, come rain or shine.
Jennifer will be guiding the Forest Explorers program on SATURDAYS: 930-1130 AM (1st & 3rd weekends)
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WHAT'S INCLUDED
Guided adventure, scavenger hunt and educational activities
Digital guide that will make the session EASY for you and your family!
In-person guided outing
All logistics
Explorer checklist (what you need to bring)
Take-home craft and/or treat for the kids
Arts, crafts and science activities
(Natural + cultural history, plus lunch + coffee stops + more)
YOU'LL ALSO GET ACCESS TO
First-aid kit
Loaner kit of hiking gear (48-hour notice): https://bit.ly/loanerkit. Please inquire about what gear is available; we have items for kids and adults, like single/double jogging strollers, Baby Bjorn infant carrier, toddler backpack carrier, hiking poles, etc.
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Program Basics
What age groups is this program for?
Our Toddle Dawdle + Forest Explorers program is designed for curious young minds from tots as young as 12m to early elementary ages
How long is each session?
Each class runs 1.5 to 2 hours, giving plenty of time for exploration, learning, and fun!
What's included in each session? Every session includes circle time, songs, stories, yoga, hikes, sensory play, hands-on activities, nature exploration, science fun and arts + crafts that kids can take home.
Scheduling & Locations
How often do classes meet? Classes are held every other weekend (except State and Federal Holidays) with a total of 8 classes per season.
How many classes are in a season? Each season includes 8 classes total.
Do you visit the same location each week?
No! We explore a different beautiful Bay Area location each session, discovering hidden gems and new places within a 35-40 minute drive radius from your selected location.
When will I know the schedule and locations?
A detailed class schedule with specific dates and locations will be shared one month before each season begins.
Registration & Fees
How much does the program cost? The fee is $400 per season, which includes all 8 classes, entry fees, and parking fees.
Can I bring a sibling to the session with my registered child?
Siblings are welcome in the program! Siblings under 12m are free. For siblings at or above 12months of age, please register as a separate child for the program.
Do you offer sibling discounts?
Yes! We offer discounts for additional siblings. When signing up, select the ‘2 siblings’ option for a discounted price. If more than 2 children from your family will be registering, please reach out to us for the discounted price.
Do I have to commit for a full year? Not at all! Our flexible sign-up allows you to focus on just the current season - no need to commit to a full year.
What payment methods do you accept?
Payment is made through our website’s sign up page. We accept Credit Card and Paypal.
Missed Session & Make-ups
What happens if we miss a session? Life happens! If you miss a session, you can use a special one-time credit transfer to attend any other location's session as a make-up.
Can I transfer my make-up credit to a different season?
At this time, make-up sessions can only be completed only in the season for which you are registered.
What to Expect at Forest Explorers Program
What should my child wear?
Dress for outdoor adventure! We recommend comfortable clothes that can get dirty, closed-toe shoes with good grip, and layers for changing weather.
What should we bring?
Always bring snacks, water, extra clothes, sun protection, small trash bags and layers of clothing with you. Once you sign up, you will receive a detailed location and schedule guide which includes any items specific to a session location. In addition, your guide will share any additional info before each session through a private group chat.
What if it's raining?
Classes will meet rain or shine, except during extreme weather when an advisory might be in effect. Arrangements to transfer the credit will be communicated in such cases.
Is this program suitable for shy children?
Absolutely! Our nature-based approach helps children of all personalities feel comfortable and engaged at their own pace.
For Parents
What is the Grown-up Circle?
Grown-up Circle is a space for grown ups to discuss any and all topics, not limited to parenting. Meaningful conversations around topics like back-to-work, networking as well as guest speaker sessions from experts in various fields, aimed for grown ups. We will also put out polls to hear what you want to discuss with other parents!
Can I participate in activities with my child?
Yes, Parent/caregiver participation is required in this program.
Will I meet the same families each week?
Yes! You'll see the same families throughout the season, building a wonderful community of like-minded parents and children.
Safety & Logistics
How do you ensure safety checks?
A detailed guide about all logistics for each location will be shared after sign up and one month before the program starts. In addition, our guides bring a first aid kit and are required to undergo CPR training with Red Cross.
Do you provide snacks?
No, we do not provide snacks or drinks in this program.
What's your cancellation policy? The program registration is not cancellable nor transferable. However, a one-time credit transfer to another session at a different location, for the same season, is possible upon request.
How do I contact you with more questions?
You can reach us at miranda@mommymehiking.com or https://www.facebook.com/groups/mommymehiking via DM or @mommyandmehiking on Instagram
Getting Started
How do I sign up?
https://www.familyadventuresquad.org/toddle-dawdle-forest-explorers-program
When does the next season start?
Season starts in September 2025 after Labor Day
Can I visit a class before committing?
We do not offer a trial class option at this time.