Children are naturally curious and may ask about two questions every minute in early childhood. Yet as they move through school, that number can drop to fewer than one question every two hours. Curiosity may decline when students have little time for open-ended questions, feel pressure from classmates or cultural expectations, or fear giving a wrong answer. 

 Encouraging questions helps children discover new ideas, solve problems, and prepare for the future. Our hands-on field trips support curiosity when many students begin to lose it. For some, the visit is their first experience in a natural area. On the trails, they apply classroom lessons in a real-world setting and gain experiences that stay with them long after the trip. By exploring nature firsthand, students learn how it connects to their lives and why it deserves respect. Interactive lessons at the Nature Reserve build understanding, enjoyment, and a sense of responsibility. Children who develop this connection are more likely to help protect the environment. 

At The Nature Reserve, we believe outdoor education helps students understand and care for the natural world. For more than 20 years, over 50,000 students have learned and grown in our outdoor classroom. These experiences are possible because of generous support from individuals, organizations, and local businesses. By supporting environmental education, our community helps young people build knowledge, make responsible choices, and develop the critical thinking skills needed to create a more sustainable future. 

Please help us continue to grow curiosity. Your donation helps us to bring elementary classes out to the Nature Reserve and provides the tools to create that experience as well. Click here to learn more about sponsorship benefits. Click here to make your donation.