The Wild Wonders Story
Wild Wonders started as a small seed of an idea: a dream to bring families with little ones together and create a space where learning could be as free and joyful as childhood itself. After years in the classroom, our founder, Nicole, longed to teach again, but in a way that allowed for freedom, curiosity, and connection, all while being outdoors.
What began as a handful of families exploring, playing, and discovering together has blossomed into a fast-growing community. Today, each season welcomes over 100 children and their families to the outdoors, the greatest classroom there is. Wild Wonders is no longer just a program; it's a place where families find connection, where children's curiosity comes alive, and where we all slow down to soak in the wonder around us.
We can't wait to welcome your family into this special story we're still writing together.
Our Vision
At Wild Wonders, our vision is to see every child grow up with a deep sense of wonder, confidence, and connection to the natural world. We dream of creating a movement where families slow down, step outside, and rediscover the beauty of learning through curiosity, play, and togetherness.
We envision Wild Wonders as more than classes—it’s a growing community where little explorers lead the way, their questions shaping the day’s adventures. By nurturing curiosity, creativity, and a love for nature, we hope to inspire a generation that values simplicity, stewardship, and the joy of discovering life’s small wonders.
Our Mission
Our mission is to create a nature-based learning community where children and families can:
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Learn and explore through curiosity-led experiences.
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Build strong family connections through shared outdoor adventures.
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Develop a deep love and respect for the natural world.
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Celebrate each child’s unique way of learning and growing.
Our Philosophy
At Wild Wonders, we believe children are natural learners, brimming with curiosity and wonder. When they’re given the freedom to explore, ask questions, and follow their interests, their learning becomes joyful, meaningful, and lasting.
Our approach is child-led—every class is designed to spark curiosity and encourage exploration rather than follow a rigid plan. If a child’s attention is drawn to a crawling bug, a rustling tree, or a the open grass to run, we see those moments as the real lessons of the day. Nature sets the stage, but the children’s curiosity leads the way.
We believe in slowing down, getting messy, and creating a space where families can witness their children discover the world on their own terms, building confidence, creativity, and connection along the way.
Meet Our Team
Nicole Smith, M.Ed
Founder & Program Director
Nicole believes the best classroom is filled with curious minds. With over 18 years working with children, including a decade in the traditional classroom, she brings a strong understanding of child development to every Wild Wonders class. A boy mom herself, she's seen firsthand how play based, hands on learning shapes curious, confident kids. Guided by faith and a heart for child-led learning, she created Wild Wonders as a place for families to connect, grow, and wonder together.
Carolina Rodriguez
Lead Teacher
Carolina's Wild Wonders story didn't start as a teacher; it started as a parent, watching this community grow from the very beginning. With years of experience coaching gymnastics and a gift for making everyone feel instantly at home, she brings infectious energy and an ease with kids that makes every class feel like play, even when they're learning the most. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Carolina leads our Dual Language class, guiding kids through exploration in both languages.
Lauren Trieber, M.Ed
Lead Teacher
Lauren has been part of the Wild Wonders family for the past year and now is bringing her calm, steady warmth to every class as a teacher. With 7 years teaching Kindergarten through 2nd grade, a Bachelor's in Elementary Education, and a Master's in Early Childhood Education & Special Education, she understands children in a way that makes her a natural at meeting them right where they are. With Lauren, every moment outside becomes a little more magical.
Samantha Cox, M.Ed
Lead Teacher in Training
Sam brings 16 years of experience in education to Wild Wonders, including 9 years teaching 2nd and 3rd grade in a traditional classroom. With a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a Master's degree in Elementary Reading, she has a deep passion for creating engaging, meaningful learning experiences for young learners. As both an educator and a mom, she understands the importance of nurturing the whole child and making learning joyful, confidence-building, and meaningful.