What people are saying.

  • “Our daughter has attended various BEan in Nature summer camps and the ongoing weekly Earth Education Program on Wednesdays. The positive impact to her overall development, both educationally and socially has been hugely significant. Her appreciation of nature and its fragility, increased empathy demonstrated by working collaboratively with others, and being receptive of different opinions are just a few of the areas she has grown during her time at BEan in Nature.”

    — Brittney

  • “I am so pleased my son joined the nature science class this semester. He is naturally introverted and sometimes finds it hard to join into group activities. He was thrilled about the active, fun games and play used to start class. It really helps him to have some physically active fun before sitting down to focus. It has been fun watching him bloom and engage in BEan in Nature classes. It is a testament to the program’s willingness to meet children where there are and hold space for their being.”

    — Shauna

  • “At first I was a little nervous about sending my almost 6 year old to a camp from 9am-3pm. She had done camps before, but never to a camp that lasted almost all day and definitely not one that was completely outside. She had a wonderful time and loved talking about what she did every day. From face painting, to archery, to walking through the creek, she spent the week doing such worthwhile things with new friends while spending it outside in nature.”

    — Rachel

  • "Thank you Marisa ... thank you again for providing such an enriching and joyous program this spring. It was the highlight of Nikhil's year!"

    — Erin

  • "We've taken Bean in Nature classes, after school programs, summer camps and nature programs with Marisa Bean and her educators in the past and have really enjoyed them. We've learned about ecosystems, how to protect and appreciate our environment, survival skills and made friends through group hikes, games, nature crafts all while getting lots of exercise! My daughter has become more independent and confident through these wonderful programs so we hope to continue."

    — Suen-Yi

  • “Each year my kids ask to come back to Bean In Nature. The staff is caring and attentive. They have the know-how to engage kids in varied activities and connect with nature. Thank you!"

    — Katherine D.

  • "My daughters loved the fairy themed wild crafting camp at BEan in Nature! They learned about herbs and how to use them as medicinals. They enjoyed creating fairy art in the forest. Everyone there was inspiring and positive. Every day I picked them up they were upbeat and positive about their experience and eager to return the next day. They have asked to continue to do weekend classes through the school year."

    — Mary Ann

  • "BEan in Nature was fantastic! The right amount of organization and freedom with the opportunity to connect with children of different ages and young adults and adults. The nature component afforded the opportunity to develop new skills and to connect with the peace and beauty in our natural world. Awesome!"

    — Sharon

  • My daughters have been attending BEan in Nature Summer camps and Saturday Nature Connection classes for three years and they never tire. A day in the redwoods crafting, hiking, creating and playing does wonders for mind and body. My girls have learned knife skills, plant-based first-aid, how to make cordage, wildlife biology, and campfire safety. BAan In Nature provides a friendly, comfortable setting that promotes both cooperation and independence. In fact, my older daughter wants to become a junior counselor -- highly recommend this program!"

    — Jennifer

  • "I loved what BEan was able to provide for my daughter. After an intense year of increased online usage and screen time, not to mention the indoor summer of last years fires, it was a pleasure to find something that would keep her outdoors having a good time while gaining knowledge of the natural world and picking up skills that encourage her curiosity and bravery. No kid glove handling of important life skills at this camp. The instructors were knowledgeable and patient with life experience stories. I admired the attention to the kids and the camp structure, while at the same time there wasn't a rigidity or strictness that would stomp out a chance for a kid to climb a tree or get dirty. My daughter was so sad when the week was over, always a good sign! I will most definitely be putting my daughter into more BEan camps in the future."

    — Celeste

  • "What an incredible leadership program and camp. It offered my daughter a multitude of learning experiences. She not only deepened her understanding of nature but also honed her skills in interacting with her peers and fellow campers. Furthermore, she learned the significance of teamwork and how to support others effectively. Marissa has been an outstanding teacher and mentor, and Payton is eagerly looking forward to future summers."

    — DeeDee, Mom to a natural teen leader

  • "Marisa and her team do a wonderful job in their nature programs with the kids. My kids have attended both a weekly homeschool group as well as teen weekend campouts. The kids are always excited to go and come home happy, and love to talk about all the stuff they have learned. Marisa is such a great educator and she puts a lot of thought on the program and also on making sure everyone feels welcomed and safe - I have been impressed by the way she has handled some challenging situations (with respect, firmness and support all at the same time). "

    — Roberta P., MOM to 2 nature connected young people