
We recognize that children with autism have unique strengths and challenges, and outdoor education provides an incredible platform to support their growth. Sensory experiences are a crucial aspect of learning, and the natural world offers a wide variety of sensory stimuli that can help children with autism engage in their environment in a meaningful way. Whether it is feeling the sand beneath their feet, listening to the rustling leaves, or watching the waves crash on the shore, these sensory experiences can be both calming and stimulating, providing children with opportunities to develop their sensory integration skills in a natural and supportive setting.

At Emergent Learning, we integrate the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) into our outdoor therapeutic programming to further enhance the learning experiences that take place within our centers. ABA principles such as positive reinforcement, shaping, and prompting are seamlessly applied in natural outdoor settings to help children generalize the skills they learn during therapy sessions. For example, while exploring the forest, we may use positive reinforcement to encourage children to complete a nature scavenger hunt, promoting both engagement and skill acquisition. By practicing skills such as following directions, turn-taking, and communication in a natural environment, children are better able to encode and generalize these skills to real-world contexts.

In addition to team building and social skills, we emphasize mindfulness as a key component of our outdoor programming. Mindfulness helps children develop greater self-awareness and emotional regulation, skills that are especially beneficial for children on the autism spectrum. The natural world provides an ideal setting for practicing mindfulness, whether it is through deep breathing exercises by a tranquil lake, listening attentively to the sounds of the forest, or simply observing the movement of clouds in the sky. These practices help children learn to manage stress, stay present in the moment, and develop a sense of inner calm.

Our mission is to make outdoor education an integral part of every child's learning journey. By leveraging the unique natural landscapes near our centers and providing thoughtfully designed programming that integrates ABA principles, we aim to inspire a sense of wonder, resilience, and connection in each child we serve. Whether it is through exploring the beaches of Hawaii, hiking the trails of the Ozarks, observing the wetlands of the Midwest, or venturing into the Alaskan wilderness, Emergent Learning is dedicated to making nature accessible to all, helping children grow into confident, capable, and compassionate individuals.
Commitment to the Outdoors
At Emergent Learning, we believe that every child with autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions deserves access to the transformative benefits of outdoor exploration and experience within their community and across the globe. Nature provides the ideal setting for children to discover, grow, and thrive, and we are dedicated to making these experiences accessible for all. Our commitment lies in creating opportunities that foster independence, mindfulness, team building, and social development through meaningful interactions with the natural world.

Emergent Learning Centers locations are selected primarily to allow a unique accessible position for our clients to take advantage of some of the most inspiring natural landscapes in the country. In Coastal California, we provide services from Monterey to Malibu, where children can experience both the beauty of the beaches and the tranquility of forested areas, engaging in activities that foster sensory integration and social development. Our location in Hawaii is less than 100 feet from the beach, allowing children to experience the wonders of the shoreline and ocean ecosystems up close. They can explore tide pools, feel the ocean breeze, and engage with the vibrant marine life, providing rich sensory experiences that are both educational and therapeutic. The sacred mountain of Diamond Head is also only minutes away. In Springfield, Missouri, our center is surrounded by forests and near the Ozark Mountains, offering children opportunities to hike trails, observe wildlife, and explore streams. The varied terrain helps them build physical coordination, navigate uneven surfaces, and connect with nature in a meaningful way. Coming in 2025, we will expand our reach to Anchorage, Alaska, where children will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vast northern wilderness, gaining hands-on experiences that cultivate a love for nature and adventure.

Outdoor interventions at Emergent Learning is more than just an activity—it is a way for children to build essential skills and foster their independence. We deliver programming that supports children in exploring their environment, learning how to work as a team, and practicing mindfulness in natural settings. These experiences are not only fun but also critical to children's social and emotional development, helping them grow into resilient and capable individuals. For children with autism, these experiences can be particularly impactful, offering opportunities to practice social skills in a low-pressure environment. Activities such as group hikes, nature scavenger hunts, and team-based outdoor games provide natural opportunities for social interaction, cooperation, and communication, all while surrounded by the calming presence of nature.

Emergent Learning is committed to fostering equitable access to these powerful experiences, ensuring that all children, regardless of their background or abilities, can benefit from the countless advantages of outdoor education. We strive to create an inclusive environment where every child feels supported, valued, and empowered to explore the world around them. By providing tailored support and opportunities for children with autism to engage with nature, we are helping to lay the foundation for lifelong growth, independence, and well-being.
