About

We offer a secular program filled with opportunities for learning both core subjects as well as all things nature. Our priority is encouraging curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking through hands-on exploration in a safe environment. We strive to nurture children’s innate sense of wonder, fostering lifelong skills in problem-solving, collaboration, and respect for the natural world around them.

Imagine your little one learning math while counting petals in a sunflower patch, or practicing their language skills by identifying different species of birds in the trees - all while surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of the natural world. That is the essence of what our program is about.

Ms. Nicole, founder and teacher of Tiny Trailblazers, was born and raised in San Diego and began working with children at the age of 16. She quickly built a reputation among local families as a trusted nanny and also started teaching horseback riding lessons on weekends. Her passion for working with children and helping others led her to pursue a career in occupational therapy, specializing in early intervention for children of all abilities and diagnoses.

After becoming a mother to three children, Nicole continued her education by taking child development courses at local community colleges and delving into research on the benefits of outdoor play for children’s development and well-being. She currently works part-time with a homeschool pod for children aged 3–6.

Combining her love of nature and outdoor adventures with her expertise in child development, Nicole is dedicated to creating engaging and enriching outdoor learning experiences for young children through Tiny Trailblazers Nature School.

Testimonial

"I was going back to work and needed someone to care for my then 3-year-old son. I would bring Liam to Nicole's home and it was great because he was right in the middle or her two sons ages and so they would all play together. Nicole is very friendly and she communicated with me how the day went. She also sent me pictures throughout the day. He would come home with little projects. I appreciate that she took an educational approach and they spent time outdoors doing activities. I think she has a natural warmth to her personality and my son responded positively to her. He now is in full time school but still misses his days with Nicole!" Liz

Location

The program will be held outdoors in the spacious backyard of Ms. Nicole’s family home in Point Loma, featuring a grassy play area, a garden, and a patio with tables for crafts and lunch. We’re also fortunate to have a nature trail just across the street, perfect for exploration and hands-on learning. Inspired by Linda Åkeson McGurk’s book, “There’s No Such Thing as Bad Weather: A Scandinavian Mom’s Secrets for Raising Healthy, Resilient, and Confident Kids,” we encourage children to fully embrace outdoor play, from splashing in puddles to learning about changing weather. For inclement days, however, we have an optional indoor space available to ensure comfort and safety.

Time in nature is not leisure time; it’s an essential investment in our children’s health.” – Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods.