Toddle Dawdle + Forest Explorers Program
Making childhood magical, one trail at a time
Welcome to our Toddle Dawdle + Forest Explorers program, a magical nature-based learning adventure designed for curious young minds, with a focus on tots to early elementary youths.
In our outdoor sessions, we will bring new discoveries with circle time, songs, stories, yoga, hikes and sensory play. Your little explorer will climb, create, splash and wonder their way through hands-on experiences that nurture both body and soul.
From building stick forts to dancing with the trees, from foraging for seasonal berries and flowers to spotting new plants, from making mud masterpieces to yoga under the sky — we're growing confident, creative, and connected kids who see the world as their playground.
For our parents, we have a Grown-up Circle where we dive into enriching conversations and activities designed just for adults, for your own growth and discovery.
Fall Season begins mid-September!
Added bonus: Discover new places and many hidden gems around the Bay, with each session!
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Walking, climbing, splashing and running enhances gross motor skills while making nature art and sensory play will focus on fine motor development.
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From learning new words to observing and exploring, from focus to balance, little ones will unlock more potential of their growing brains. Critical thinking, problem solving, social and emotional growth — all start early.
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Try fun science experiments, learn about nature’s ecology, make fun art that encourages logical thinking and more.
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Explore textures, sizes, shapes and more while breathing in fresh air that stimulates all five senses of little minds (and for grown ups, too)!
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Littles learn how to care for the environment, observe seasons and their outdoor bounties, and instill a love for the planet at an early age. We will explore forests through all the seasons and learn about the cycle of life from spring to winter.
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Littles learn about animals, flowers, trees, birds and more! Watch their eyes light up when they spot something from their books in real life. We add fun and educational flashcards to keep enrichment ongoing after families go home.
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Sessions planned for parents to talk about challenges that are not only about parenting but also other topics, like back-to-work networking, guest speakers and more.
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Meet the same families at each session and build community with those learning the same things and facing the same challenges. Make memories to last a lifetime.
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Focus only on the current semester at a time; no need to commit to one year.
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If you miss a session, use a special one-time credit transfer to check out any other location. We all understand that life happens.
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For the Fall season, families signing up receive a 10% discounted fee that includes:
8 classes per season
Classes will be held every other weekend
Different location for each class, in a 35-40min drive radius
Class duration 1.5 - 2 hours
Entry, parking fees included
A detailed class schedule with dates and locations will be shared one month before season begins.
Discount for additional siblings
Founding Family Fall Launch Fee: $400 (that is $50 per session!)
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Silly Slugs with Arren (South Bay Foothills)
Los Gatos, Santa Cruz, Saratoga, Campbell, Mountain View, Sunnyvale
SATURDAYS: 9:30-11:30 AM (1st & 3rd weekends)
Fall Launch Fee: $400
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Happy Hawks with Sarah (Peninsula)
Redwood City, San Carlos, Woodside, Foster City, Palo Alto
WEDNESDAYS: 3:30-5:30 PM (Alternate week)
Fall Launch Fee (Six Sessions starting Oct. 8): $300
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Mighty Monarchs with Mahsa (Tri-Valley)
San Ramon, Berkeley, Oakland
SUNDAYS: 9:30-11:30 AM (2nd & 4th weekends)
Fall Launch Fee: $400
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Dancing Dragonflies with Pranali (East Bay)
Fremont, Milpitas, North San Jose, Sunnyvale, Oakland, Pleasanton
SATURDAYS: 9:30-11:30 AM (1st & 3rd weekends)
Fall Launch Fee: $400
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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.