Three Days of Adventure, Discovery, and Connection in the East Mountains!
What happens when you bring 90 curious kiddos, a handful of incredible community partners, and three days of outdoor adventure together? A whole lot of discovery, laughter, and memories to last a lifetime!
This October, Nature Niños headed to the East Mountains for Discovery Week, a three-day outdoor education experience filled with hands-on learning, new friendships, and opportunities to explore the world around us.
From bullseyes and drumbeats to wildlife wonders and shared meals, every day brought something new to discover!
Learning Beyond the Classroom
At Nature Niños, we believe some of the most meaningful learning happens when kiddos have the freedom to explore, ask questions, get their hands dirty, and try something new.
Throughout Discovery Week, students rotated through a variety of activities designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and encourage teamwork.
With support from our amazing guest educators, kiddos had the opportunity to:
Take aim with archery: Bruce from the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish introduced students to archery fundamentals, helping them practice patience, focus, and safety while building confidence.
Find their rhythm: Chris from Drum Unity brought students together through an interactive drum circle, exploring the power of music, active listening, and collaboration.
Move with mindfulness: Tiffany led yoga and outdoor movement activities, encouraging students to slow down, connect with their bodies, and practice emotional awareness.
Explore the art of fishing: Storm introduced students to fishing equipment, rod and reel mechanics, and casting techniques through hands-on practice.
Get creative with fire: David Gibson from RayKitty Creation Workshop invited students to explore the elements of fire through a creative, hands-on experience.
Discover New Mexico's wildlife: Through animal pelts, bones, and natural specimens, Sarah helped students learn about wildlife conservation, ethical hunting practices, and the importance of respecting our natural resources.
Students also explored fire science, Leave No Trace principles, and owl pellets, discovering new ways to understand and care for the natural world.
Each activity offered something different, but they all shared one important goal: creating opportunities for young people to learn through experience.
More Than Just Outdoor Adventure
While the activities were certainly exciting, some of the most meaningful moments happened in between.
Discovery Week created space for students to step outside their comfort zones, encourage one another, and discover what they're capable of.
Whether they were learning to cast a fishing rod for the first time, finding their place in a drum circle, or working together to prepare dinner, students practiced skills that extend far beyond the outdoors.
Confidence. Communication. Cooperation. Connection.
These are the experiences that help young people grow, not only as outdoor explorers but also as friends, leaders, and members of their communities.
One particularly special part of the week was preparing and sharing meals together. Students helped cook dinner, learning practical skills while experiencing the joy of contributing to something bigger than themselves.
The week concluded with a shared breakfast, giving students and educators one final opportunity to gather, reflect, and celebrate their adventures together.
It Takes a Village to Grow Curious Minds
Experiences like Discovery Week are made possible through the generosity, knowledge, and dedication of our community.
We want to extend a HUGE thank you to our incredible community partners, guest educators, and everyone who helped bring these three days to life!
By sharing their skills, stories, and passions, our partners helped create an environment where students could discover new interests, build meaningful relationships, and connect with the natural world in their own unique ways.
At Nature Niños, we know that connecting young people to nature isn't just about teaching outdoor skills. It's about nurturing curiosity, creating a sense of belonging, and reminding every kiddo that there's a place for them outdoors.
And if Discovery Week reminded us of anything, it's that a little adventure can go a long way!
Here's to muddy boots, curious minds, brave hearts, and many more adventures ahead!