The Sienna Ranch Explorers classes aim to creat a naturalist community where we learn from and rely on one another.  The learning in Explorers classes is not just about nature, but also an opportunity for students to learn important life skills such as safety and hazard awareness, communication, co-operation, and decision-making.  In this context, nature serves as a mirror for students, reflecting their abilities to meet the challenges of the outdoors.  In the Explorers program, instructors and teachers are not creating artificial scenarios for learning, but are facilitating experiential learning in real-life situations.   In this way, students learn how to work with and alongside forces of nature, fostering a relationship of mutual benefit. 

The foundation for the content of the Sienna Ranch Explorers program is wilderness skills.  Skills and knowledge are acquired in the categories of survival, nature awareness, local ecology, animal tracking, primitive skills and crafts, communication and leadership.  Challenges faced in Explorers classs teach self-reliance, boost self-esteem, and give children a comfort which will encourage them to seek out new experiences in nature.  Likewise, learning the art of primitive crafts and skills will nurture an appreciation for the earth and her gifts.  In Sienna Ranch Explorers classes, we are planting seeds- not only in the garden, but also in the inspirations of the students.  Students will be loosely grouped in the following age categories: 6-7 yrs, 8-11, 12-14.  Activities will be geared towards the maturity, skills, and experience of
the students.

Explorers Certification Program

Each session will focus on preparing students for one of Sienna Ranch’s certifications.  Examples of certifications include: 

Fist Aid Certification
Animal Care Certification
Naturalist Certification

Students can earn certification cards and collect special certification patches designed specifically for this program.

Typical Day

·        GRATITUDE CIRCLE (what do we have to be thankful for?)

·        GROUP GAME (These are fun teaching games- each with its own specific goal for instilling a nature related concept)

·        ANIMAL ENCOUNTER (Speaking and sharing- what awesome animal did you see this week?)

·        FOCUS ACTIVITY/LESSON (examples include: primitive arts, preparing foods, dyeing with natural materials, making goat cheese, seasonal organic gardening, shelter building, animal tracking)

·        NATURE EXPLORATION (hike or wander gently guided by instructor- meant to be a time to freely explore and interact)

·        CLOSING ACTIVITY(conclusion, sharing favorite part of the day)

While Sienna Ranch Explorers instructors do not follow a set and riged curriculum, we use the following guides as a backbone for our program:

·        Kamana for Kids, Books 1-3

·        The Young Naturalist

·        Primitive Ways Book

·        Coyote’s Guide

In addition, our staff attend several workshops and festivals throughout the year in an effort to continue their  growth as naturalists and educators.  

Each session of the Explorers classes offers at a minimum :

 Before registering, please read the policies below:

·        Sienna Ranch Explorers staff are not equipped to handle the special needs of children who have emotional or behavioral challenges.  Please enroll your child only if he/she is able to effectively control his or her impules, listen to directions, and follow the guidance of the their adult leaders.  This is important for their safety and the safety of the other students. 

·        Once in each session, class will be held offsite at an alternate location.  Parents will be notified no less than one week before class about any location changes. 

·        We reserve the right to adjust groups based on age, personality, or any other factor- our goal is to have cohesive groups who work well together and support one another’s ability to experience the full benefit of the program.  When registering, you will have the opportunity to request one friend or silbling to be in the same group as your child.