Technology Free Value-Based Learning in Nature
A NYC 4-week bird patch program designed to bring confidence, focus, and curiosity to your household and classrooms.
Rolling enrollment starts October 2026!!
Why nature without technology?
Technology is a big part of children’s lives. It helps them learn, create, and explore. At the same time, children also need opportunities to slow down, engage with the world around them, build meaningful relationships, and practice being curious without a screen.
That’s where our nature curriculum comes in.
Nature gives children a chance to explore at their own pace, ask questions, work together, and experience the confidence that comes from discovering something for themselves. Research continues to highlight the benefits of time outdoors for children’s well-being, connection, and development.
A walk through Central Park can become a science lesson, a scavenger hunt, a social experience, or a moment of quiet. A bird can turn into a question, which turns into an observation, which turns into a conversation. And suddenly, a child who thought they were just going for a walk is practicing patience, communication, problem-solving, confidence, and curiosity without even realizing it.
That’s the magic of birds. They give kids a reason to look up.
Through the Bird Explorers of Central Park Patch Program, children use birds and nature as a gateway to developing skills that support them both in the park and beyond. They practice observation, communication, problem-solving, patience, and emotional regulation—all while having fun and building a deeper connection with the natural world.
And these aren’t just skills children need today. They’re skills they carry with them as they grow.
As children get older, the way they learn, communicate, make friends, navigate challenges, and understand themselves changes. We want nature to be a place they can continue returning to through those changes—a place where they can build confidence, stay curious, connect with others, and develop a relationship with the world around them.
We’re not here to replace technology or add another expectation to a child’s day.
We’re here to give families another way to support their children as they grow, and give kids another place to learn, connect, explore, and experience joy.
“My 4-year-old was completely engaged throughout Steph’s bird experience, and he hasn’t stopped talking about it since! He asks to go to the park every weekend!“
“If Steph can engage a group of seemingly disinterested teen boys, she can make the Bird Study Merit Badge Program fun and interesting for anyone. The scout troop really enjoyed it and learned so much..It was truly a perfect day in Central Park!”
Our unique approach to nature allows kids to explore while learning vital skills:
• independence from technology
• sustained attention
• curiosity through leadership
• confidence in the outdoors
• how to identify birds and observe wildlife
• interact with nature safely and respectfully
• use senses to explore the world around them
Small cohorts of 4
Private available
Ages 4-7: Cardinal learners
Ages 7-11: Dove trekkers
Our curriculum is more than five hours in nature. It's an experience.
- Your child will guide a bird walk in Central Park to showcase their newfound confidence and excitement!
- Receive a bird sticker workbook that will have you and your family returning to the park to spot birds throughout the year!
- Optional vest and patches to celebrate bird identification and curiosity milestones.
Enrolling now! Fill out the form below to get started.
Is your child naturally curious about the world around them?
The Bird Explorers of Central Park Patch Program is designed for nature-curious kids who love to explore, ask questions, move their bodies, and learn by doing.
Our curriculum supports children with different ways of thinking, learning, and processing information. Through movement, exploration, observation, and hands-on interaction throughout Central Park, kids are given opportunities to engage with nature in ways that feel natural to them.
We specifically incorporate skills that can support children who process information differently—including children with ADHD, autism, sensory sensitivities, or differences in attention and learning. Rather than expecting every child to learn in the same way, we create space for different ways of communicating, exploring, problem-solving, and participating.
Interested in Public Speaking?…
Steph speaks at….
Middle Schools
Elementary Schools
Girls and Boys Scout Programs