ABOUT NATURE BY DESIGN
Nature by Design works with local schools and partners to provide meaningful learning experiences, guided hikes, and tailored events, focused on nurturing a lasting connection with nature.
"One touch of nature makes the whole world kin."
-William Shakespeare, Troilus & Cressida
Discover Nature by Design Offerings:
Nature by Design is an education initiative of Ventura Land Trust. From grant-subsidized programs for schools to tailored teacher training and corporate team-building events, our team of experienced naturalists and educators provides meaningful experiences that bring people and nature together.
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Field trips are available by request throughout the school year. With teacher input, these trips provide hands-on activities and teachable moments focused on reinforcing classroom objectives and aligning with CA education standards. Examples of focus topics: life cycles, food web, biodiversity, watershed, birding and migration, stewardship, etc.
To learn more and schedule, email education@venturalandtrust.org
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With the support from grants, we offer subsidized programs for community partnered schools and organizations. These trips and session-long programs are provided at no-cost to students, including transportation.
For more information, email education@venturalandtrust.org
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In partnership with Ventura County school districts, Nature by Design offers outdoor enrichment programs during expanding learning times, including after school and summer sessions.
For more information, email education@venturalandtrust.org
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Nature by Design (NBD) offers tailored training opportunities for educators interested in integrating nature and outdoor learning into their curriculum.
NBD also leads retreats and team-building events centered in nature for school personnel.
To learn more and schedule, email education@venturalandtrust.org
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Team-building events are offered for businesses in Ventura County. Events are centered in nature, to help teams build group cohesion and strengthen relationships. Focus is on healthy communication, joyful play, and quality time to reflect in nature.
To learn more and schedule, email education@venturalandtrust.org
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Our team of naturalists offer guided group hikes, such as spring wildflower and wildlife viewing. Stewardship projects can be incorporated into the event as requested.
To learn more and schedule, email education@venturalandtrust.org
Contact us for more information
Email: education@venturalandtrust.org
Phone: 805-643-8044 x 716
Mailing Address: Ventura Wild, P.O. Box 1284, Ventura, CA 93002
Why is quality time in nature important?
“Time spent learning and playing in nature benefits the whole child and can help children reach their full potential. Access to safe, natural areas can enhance children’s physical and mental health, from improving cardiovascular vitality and weight management to reducing stress and ADHD symptoms. In addition, regular access to high-quality green space inspires strong connections to the natural world.” (Children & Nature Network)
Spending time outdoors has been shown to lower levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress.
Time in nature encourages problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Some tasks require teamwork, which in turn supports the development of effective communication skills and builds healthy, cooperative relationships with peers and mentors.
Time outside amounts to greater absorption of Vitamin D, which improves mood and creates a positive mental attitude.
Research also shows an increase in focus and concentration, with children returning to the classroom with greater motivation. This has resulted in better test scores and an enthusiasm for learning.
For more information, visit www.childrenandnature.org
MAKE A DONATION TODAY!
Help us bring more children into outdoor learning and be stewards in our community
Your kind donation will help us provide more scholarships, offer bilingual programs, hire and train staff, raise funds for transportation and so much more.
