
Natural Connections
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do we meet in all weather?
A. Yes, we do! Unless it is dangerous (dangerous temperature, lightning, high winds, extreme temperatures, etc.) we will be outside in all weather! Please ensure you and your child/ren have weather appropriate attire; some of our best days happen in the rain! (Please see our list of recommendations on our Gear Recommendation Page to be sure you are well prepared!)
Q. What ages are the programs geared toward?
A. Our programs are designed for all ages as we strongly believe all children benefit from the multi-age structure. We are also all about making connections, so even if your first/only child is still being worn in a baby carrier, we want you to make connections with other outdoor families. There is so much value in connecting with other parents who have walked a similar path and believe in the importance of cultivating a love of the great outdoors. So if you have a little one and want to simply explore and adventure with us to find your community, please join!
Q. Can someone other than a parent bring my child/ren? Can more than one parent/caregiver attend?
A. Yes! We love nannies, babysitters, grandparents, aunts, uncles, you name it! If more than one parent or caregiver would like to join, please do-the majority of our group tends to be moms and children but we love nature dads too! The more people we have out in nature, the better! Just make sure the facilitator is aware of who is allowed to attend with your child/ren.
Q. What happens if I miss a day?
A. If you are signed up for our bi-weekly program and miss a day, you are welcome to come on an “off” week for your particular program. If you are signed up for a biweekly or four part series program, there are no makeup days unless the facilitator needs to cancel due to dangerous weather or emergency. There are no refunds for missed programs.
Q. Can I bring my dog since we’re meeting outside?
A. I wish I could say yes, but unfortunately, pets are not permitted to attend our programs with their people. A good time to bring along your pup for an outing is our Nature Monday meetups, which occur every other week from September to May!
Q. Are the trails stroller friendly?
A. While there may be some rugged strollers which could make it down some of the paths we’ll take, I highly recommend babywearing as you never know where the day will take us! We have a lot of great recommendations for carriers/hiking backpacks on our Gear Recommendation Page.
Q. Are there bathrooms available?
A. The woods are our bathroom! While there is possibility of a port-o-potty, this is not something I recommend relying on, as sometimes they are removed from sites and we are often far from them if they do exist. I recommend always having some toilet paper and/or wipes and disposable bags (we bring a roll of dog poop baggies in our hiking backpack:) handy if someone needs to find a private spot to do their business.
Q. What about ticks and mosquitoes?
A. Bug repellent is a MUST! Check out our Gear Recommendation Page for tried and true remedies to repel ticks, biting flies, gnats and mosquitoes. And ALWAYS remember to thoroughly check for ticks more than once after leaving the woods. (Our family does a check in the parking lot before getting in the car, a check before shower or bath and a check after shower/bath! Ticks love nooks and crannies, and they travel up the body, so check all the crevices, behind ears and in between toes!)
Q. Are there any medical requirements to attend the programs?
A. No. If you or your child/ren are actively ill, we ask you to stay home and get the rest you need.
Q. Do you offer any discounts?
A. Yes! We offer discounted registration fees to first responder families, military families and single-parent families, just note in your email if any of these apply to you.
Q. What if my child won't participate in the group time?
A. As a mom of two children who respond very differently in guided group activities, I am confident your child will find their place with us. The “group time” to begin our day does not require children to sit still and listen, and if someone is unresponsive to what the Facilitator is offering in any given moment, he or she will not be made to participate until and unless they are ready and we will work through it together!