Programs

nature tots (2-5 years)

BOND with your LITTLE ONES

NATURE TOTS
( OC)
Nature Tots is a bi-weekly parent and child-led educational program, fostering nature connection and family bonds through stories, crafts, and hands-on learning.

Children explore the natural world through play, developing a deep appreciation for the environment.

The curriculum blends play-based learning with age-appropriate nature and art lessons, promoting hands-on discovery.

Activities include hiking, gardening, wildlife observation, and habitat exploration. Children also enhance motor skills, confidence, and caregiver relationships. Nature Tots offers a memorable educational adventure, inviting families to join in outdoor discovery and learning!

ORANGE COUNTY (Alternating Locations)
​
75 min class every Saturday

​Ages: 2-5

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Emerald Owl Preschool

AN OUTDOOR LEARNING EXPERIENCE

Join us for an outdoor hour-long, weekly session filled with songs, stories, and activities for your little one.
This nature-based preschool and KG offers a unique learning journey for young children.

Through hands-on activities, they explore the natural world, fostering lifelong environmental appreciation. Play-based learning merges with age-appropriate science, promoting discovery.

Activities include hiking, gardening, cooking, wildlife observation, and habitat exploration.

​Skills like problem-solving and teamwork are emphasized, alongside motor skill development and confidence building. With a focus on peer relationships, the program ensures a memorable educational experience. Join us for this adventure-filled journey into nature!

2 days per week. Students must be potty trained.
​
Orange County
Monday & Wednesday
Preschool: 10:00am-1:00pm (Ages 3 & 4)
KG: 10am – 2pm (Ages 5 & 6)

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REDWOOD RAVEN PRESCHOOL & KG

Nature enrichnment starts at a young age

Redwood Raven Pre-school & KG recognizes the importance of a balance between developing motor-skills and guiding free time to hone in on natural curiosities for our little Ravens. Spending time in our two outdoor classrooms encourages cooperation. imaginative play, hand-eye coordination, balance, physical strength and mental clarity.

When children’s natural curiosity is encouraged, learning flows organically from their surroundings. Kids are encouraged to wonder, identify, and build relationships with our natural world by interacting with what is around us.
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Through guided activities and exploration time, our enthusiastic mentors brings the joy of learning and nature immersion to life!

MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS
10am – 1pm
WALNUT, CA

TESTIMONIALS

 

​These days, it’s hard to give kids a simple childhood anymore. We are grateful to Art & Wilderness Institute for giving a place where my son can learn, grow, and develop in a way a young child should be able to. The Art & Wilderness Instructors create an environment where the best and most beautiful natural qualities of a child can develop and thrive — a connection to the natural world around us, an appreciation and respect for community, and an excitement to learn without being stifled. I trust the instructors with playing such a powerful role in my son’s childhood, and am continually impressed with how much attention they put toward understanding children and helping different personalities and learning styles flourish. My son wakes up every morning asking when he’s going to an Art & Wilderness Institute program…and he’s never shown that excitement for any other program! –  Lena Khan:

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redwood raven school

Learning CORE standards through Stewardship

Stewardship

At Redwood Raven, students learn to have ownership of their campus by working the land with us. They learn many skills while also learning Math, Science, Social Studies, Art, and English. Somedays, you can find them hammering and drilling while other days the kids are immersed in a book and examining worms under a microscope. The variety of activities that meet CORE standards are well thought out and designed to teach our young generation to stick through a long project, be patient, and respect and care for each other and our planet.
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Amazing Instructors

Our Amazing Staff comes with a lot of experience and training. Their passion shines through every aspect of their work. They wholeheartedly practice stewardship even outside of the classroom.
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Outdoor Classrooms

The Redwood Raven campus has an old barn with a beautiful air conditioned classroom (the exploratory hide-out) for kids to retreat to for research and projects while “Out in the field”. The main learning takes place outside at our two beautiful outdoor classrooms, the Inspiration classroom and the Reading Tree.

Redwood Raven School meets 2 x a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays) from 10am – 1:30pm.

We are located in Walnut, CA

TESTIMONIALS

“My two boys are very shy, and I wasn’t sure how they would like going to the Redwood Raven School. After the first day of schooI, I asked them how was school? My youngest said this should be called ‘Fun School’ everything is fun! The outdoors natural environment is the main classroom. The kids are learning by doing things with their hands and being with nature in a natural habitat. My oldest had a real phobia with worms before going to Redwood Raven, he would literally avoid any interaction with them. I was very surprised that he was able to observe the project that dealt with worms and their role in soil. I expressed my surprise that he actually participated in that activity. Ms. Amy said that, ‘Connecting with nature is a journey and not always easy.’ This is very true, and I’m glad my kids are on that journey of learning, connecting to their environment, in the ‘Fun School’ otherwise known as Redwood Raven School.” ~ Ihsan
​These days, it’s hard to give kids a simple childhood anymore. We are grateful to Art & Wilderness Institute for giving a place where my son can learn, grow, and develop in a way a young child should be able to. The Art & Wilderness Instructors create an environment where the best and most beautiful natural qualities of a child can develop and thrive — a connection to the natural world around us, an appreciation and respect for community, and an excitement to learn without being stifled. I trust the instructors with playing such a powerful role in my son’s childhood, and am continually impressed with how much attention they put toward understanding children and helping different personalities and learning styles flourish. My son wakes up every morning asking when he’s going to an Art & Wilderness Institute program…and he’s never shown that excitement for any other program! – Lena Khan
Enroll

MUGWORTS MIDDLE SCHOOL

​5th – 8th Grade

Weekly day long program for 5th-8th graders geared towards enriching students in arts, nature, ​and being environmentally conscientious citizens.

Mugwort’s Middle School Program offers hands-on, multidisciplinary learning in the field.

Students embark on a transformative journey covering diverse topics:

Civics
Conservation Biology
Plant Medicine
Environmental Ethics
Endurance Building

In Civics/Government, they explore environmental policy’s intersection with governance, empowering them as informed citizens and change advocates. Conservation Biology delves into ecosystems and biodiversity, emphasizing habitat preservation. Plant Medicine uncovers medicinal plants’ ecological and cultural significance. Environmental Ethics prompts critical thinking on nature’s stewardship. Endurance Building activities foster resilience and teamwork in natural settings. Through outdoor adventures, the program instills environmental appreciation and equips students for leadership.

TUESDAYS
10am – 2:15pm
Locations alternate throughout Orange County

TESTIMONIALS

My family has been a part of AWI since the very beginning. My children have taken classes with Sama Wareh, Nishat Ahmed, Sarah Hafeez, and many more teachers. The teachers bring so much love, passion, and creativity to their areas of expertise. They know how to bring the subject to life while also addressing the child’s socio-emotional learning. I love the different teaching styles the various teachers have used and they have truly instilled the love of learning in our children.

Thank you for all the behind-the-scenes work, countless hours spent on lesson planning, and the compassion everyone brings to this platform.

~ Farah Ruknuddeen

The content offered by AWI is always unique and much needed areas that benefit the kids and the whole family! The teachers are amazing and so creative in keeping the kids engaged and loving the outdoors! I love how the children learn hands-on and more importantly apply what they learn. I’m so grateful to have a place like this for my kids and myself! Our homeschool would not be the same without AWI!
-SS
“Mugworts Middle School has been such an amazing addition our homeschooling line up. I can’t convey my gratefulness for AWI and the teachers for all the efforts they put into making each class fun and informative! Every week the teachers haul all their supplies having planned amazing lessons for that day and hold classes in the beautiful outdoors that have so many benefits for children’s brains. I have no words for how blessed our kids. Prayers also for the AWI staff for all they do on the back end to make all this happen. Every week when I pick up my daughter I see the kids all over the park engaged in activities that look so much fun, it makes me want to be a kid again. Appreciate you all!”
– Shazia Rahman
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Nature Unit Studies

TESTIMONIALS

AWI helped me realize how much pollution we cause to the earth and also helped me see how to fix it. I like spending time with Ms. Sama and all the other teachers too. The best part was that it’s not online!
-NM

I like learning about nature and I like the trading cards. I like spending time outdoors and studying animals!
-OM

The content offered by AWI is always unique and much needed areas that benefit the kids and the whole family! The teachers are amazing and so creative in keeping the kids engaged and loving the outdoors! I love how the children learn hands-on and more importantly apply what they learn. I’m so grateful to have a place like this for my kids and myself! Our homeschool would not be the same without AWI!
-SS

​These days, it’s hard to give kids a simple childhood anymore. We are grateful to Art & Wilderness Institute for giving a place where my son can learn, grow, and develop in a way a young child should be able to. The Art & Wilderness Instructors create an environment where the best and most beautiful natural qualities of a child can develop and thrive — a connection to the natural world around us, an appreciation and respect for community, and an excitement to learn without being stifled. I trust the instructors with playing such a powerful role in my son’s childhood, and am continually impressed with how much attention they put toward understanding children and helping different personalities and learning styles flourish. My son wakes up every morning asking when he’s going to an Art & Wilderness Institute program…and he’s never shown that excitement for any other program! – Lena Khan

HANDS-ON ADVENTURES IN LEARNING IN WILDERNESS SETTINGS

UNIT STUDIES MONDAYS 
ORANGE COUNTY, CA

Join us in this weekly day program as we explore various topics through a multidisciplinary lens. Every week students will be covering 4 subjects. By the end of the semester students will have a multifaceted understanding and grasp of the topics.

 

This year’s focus is on Geology.

Classes are divided into groups and rotate between 4 different subjects/teachers including Science, Art, Social Studies, and Wilderness Exploration. 

Mondays
10am to 2pm
Orange, CA

Grades 1st – 5th

Enroll

UNIT STUDIES WEDNESDAYS
Orange, CA 

Join us in this weekly day program as we explore various topics through a multidisciplinary lens. Every week students will be covering 3 subjects. By the end of the semester students will have a multifaceted understanding and grasp of the topics.

This year’s focus is on Geology. 

One group alternating each week between Art and Science.
Locations range between Corona and Riverside in the Inland Empire

 

FRIDAYS
9am- 12pm
Inland Empire (Corona and RIVERSIDE)
Grades 1st – 5th

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MENTORSHIP

Now accepting inquiries for 2024 – 2025

FIELD MENTORSHIP
To be eligible for mentorship, students must have completed at least 1 year of AWI group classes. We do not accept new students straight into this program.

The Natural Journey to Leadership

Mentorship is an intensive leadership program for ages 8 to 13 designed to engage the student on a captivating adventure (in the field, in the arts, culinary arts, or land stewardship). The extreme fun of mentorship creates the inherent and natural desire to continue the assignments and learning independently. The relationship between mentor and the mentee is ongoing, inside and outside of class, while cultivating a love for the environment and the community. Mentorship is where connections and lifelong friends are made. It’s where magic happens and where a deep transformation occurs. It’s where goals are not only set, but accomplished. It’s where a true and deep connection to the environment and each other happens!

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Mentorship students must apply for an interview before being accepted into the program
  • Students must have completed one whole year at AWI group classes before being eligible to join the mentorship program.
  • Parents must be willing to support their child through this whole process, which is a 4 – 5 year program with a lot of volunteering and leadership development as well as project-based learning.
  • Parents must be willing to drive all over Orange County and the Inland Empire. Locations change frequently.
  • JR Mentorship is once a month for ages 5 to 8
  • Leadership Mentorship for ages 9 to 13+
Enroll

Summer camp and retreats

CAMPOUTS/RETREATS | 2024-25

Join AWI staff for memorable trips, planned creatively to facilitate meaningful bonding experiences.

Registration for Backpacking and Camping trips is open!

​To be the first to know, be sure to sign up on our mailing list.

Spots are limited.

 

Enroll
Mother Son Camping Trip (Sequoia National Park) Fall 2025
Join us for an unforgettable mother-son camping trip in Sequoia National Park, where adventure and bonding await beneath the towering giants of the forest. Set up camp under the ancient sequoias, and spend your days exploring winding trails, discovering hidden streams, and standing in awe of the magnificent General Sherman Tree. Evenings around the campfire offer the perfect setting for roasting marshmallows, sharing stories, and gazing at a sky full of stars. This serene getaway promises meaningful conversations, laughter, and lasting memories as you connect with nature and each other in the heart of Sequoia. Don’t miss this chance to create memories that will be treasured forever.

Days: Fri, Sat, Sun

Times: 8:00am-8:00pm

Gender: All

Ages: 8 & up

Openings: 0

Class Starts: 9/12/2025

Class Ends: 9/14/2025

Session: 2025 Spring

Tuition: $300.00

CAMPOUTS/RETREATS

Use this checklist for Car Camping. Car camping is defined as pulling up to a parking lot and not having to walk far to setup your campsite.
Download Camping Checklist

SUMMER CAMPS

Summer day camps provide an unparalleled opportunity for kids to grow, explore, and thrive in ways that go beyond traditional learning environments.

Studies show that time in nature helps children unplug from screens, reducing overstimulation and improving focus, emotional regulation, and overall mental health. Research also highlights how outdoor activities can lower stress, enhance cognitive development, and fuel creativity and problem-solving skills.

​At our camps, we embrace this science by offering exciting, hands-on experiences that immerse kids in the natural world. From exploring shaded trails to investigating ecosystems through interactive games, every moment is designed to spark curiosity and foster a deep connection with the environment. Here, children aren’t just learning—they’re engaging, discovering, and building lasting confidence, teamwork, and a profound sense of wonder that will serve them well beyond the summer.

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION ENDS APRIL 14

Enroll

SUMMER 2025

CAMP SCHEDULE

 

JUNE
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June 29 – July 2
Khulafa Al -Ard: Journey of the Heart
Discover the 99 names of Allah through Nature! Campers will get to experience adventure through the lens of understanding their role as stewards of the earth. Campers will hike, Nature Journal, Explore, Create, Search for animals and insects, and learn foundational character traits that bring faith into action. In Journeying through the heart, campers will get to aspire to embody the beautiful example of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
* Ages 5 – 10

 

JULY

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July 13 – 16

Mission Impossible: Nature’s Wonders Unlocked

In this thrilling nature adventure, campers become eco-agents on a mission to uncover the “impossible” things that happen in the natural world! From plants that eat insects to creatures that glow in the dark, nature is full of mysteries that defy what we think is possible.

Each day, campers take on exciting challenges and experiments inspired by real-life natural marvels—like walking on water (just like the basilisk lizard!), building ultra-strong spider-silk structures, or discovering how seeds travel across oceans. Through hands-on exploration, creative problem-solving, and outdoor adventures, campers will learn that nature’s “impossible” is actually nature’s genius.

Get ready to investigate, imagine, and be amazed—because at Mission Impossible: Nature Edition, the only limit is what you think can’t be done!
* Ages 3 – 10

TESTIMONIALS

“We are so grateful to both of you for working with our kids and helping them explore their curiosity within such a beautiful and safe environment! My kids have been talking nonstop about their experience from today masha’Allah”
​-S. S

“This camp is such a treat for us too 💕 JAK to you both and your team for putting this on. To be able to experience nature like this with Muslim leaders and friends is really priceless for me and I’m sure everyone else here too! we all pray that these opportunities only grow.”
– Salma

“I asked Isa what was his favorite part of the day and he said all of it, everything was his favorite.”
-A.M

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“This was by far the best came my kids have been to. And they go to a lot of camps”
-G.M

 

Khulafa Al Ard

MUD-RASA

Outdoor Weekend School on the trails. Reflect on Allah swt’s creations while outdoors, practice thikr, learn Seerah and Arabic, and gain a deeper connection to our role as stewards on this earth.
mud-rasa

WILDFLOWERS

A women’s hiking club led through a naturalist lens. Leave learning more about our ecosystems and gain a sense of sisterhood.
WIldflowers

MUD-RASA

Take time to get outside and relearn what it means to hear the sound of the birds in the morning, to rinse off in cold refreshing water, to experience still air turn into a cool breeze, and ultimately, to be grateful for strangers that quickly become community.
overnights
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GPS ADVENTURES

Embark on an exciting real-life adventure with the GPS Adventures Knowledge Quest—a Natural History-based simulation designed for family fun or classroom engagement. This immersive quest unfolds across various Orange County trails, guiding you through a journey of discovery as you follow GPS coordinates to uncover native plants, animals, geological formations, and natural wonders. Your interaction with the environment becomes a learning experience, with each finding logged into our PORTAL to progress through the six engaging levels. Upon unlocking the sixth level, expect a real treasure map dispatched to you within two weeks of completion. Upon registration, access to the Level 0 portal initiates your quest. Completion unlocks subsequent pages, gradually revealing the quest’s depth through all six levels. Upon conquering all levels, you’ll receive coordinates guiding you to a buried treasure—an exciting conclusion to your GPS Adventures Knowledge Quest. Start your journey today!
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