essential eligibility & participant readiness

Maypop Nature Classes take place outdoors in natural areas and involve walking, observation, and hands-on learning in the landscape. The following guidelines help participants understand the baseline abilities needed to safely and comfortably take part in these experiences.

These criteria are not intended to exclude anyone. If you have questions about whether a class will be a good fit for you, or would like to discuss possible accommodations, we welcome you to reach out.

ability to participate in an outdoor environment

Participants should be able to spend extended time outdoors in natural settings. This may include:

• walking up to approximately 1–2 miles at a relaxed pace

• navigating uneven terrain such as dirt trails, rocks, roots, tall grass, or mud

• standing or walking for periods of time during instruction

• being outdoors in varying weather conditions such as sun, wind, light rain, or heat

Outdoor environments may include insects, plants, and wildlife.

ability to follow instruction and safety guidance

Participants must be able to understand and follow verbal instructions from instructors or guides. This includes the ability to:

• listen to and follow safety guidance

• stay with the group during walks or field activities

• recognize and respond appropriately to potential hazards in natural environments

Outdoor learning sometimes requires group awareness and cooperation to maintain safety.

ability to communicate needs or concerns

Participants should be able to communicate personal needs to instructors. This includes the ability to:

• communicate illness, injury, discomfort, or allergies

• ask questions when something is unclear

• alert instructors to any safety concerns

Communication is especially important in outdoor environments where instructors may not always be immediately next to each participant.

personal health & self-care

Participants are responsible for managing their own health needs during the class. Participants should be able to:

• carry personal water, medications, and necessary supplies

• manage allergies or sensitivities

• maintain hydration and personal comfort during outdoor activity

Instructors are not able to administer medication or provide medical care beyond basic first aid.

foraging & plant interaction

Some Maypop Nature Classes involve the identification, handling, or optional tasting of wild plants or fungi. Participants should understand that:

• plant identification is taught for educational purposes

• tasting or consuming wild foods is always optional

• individuals are responsible for their own decisions regarding consumption and allergies

participation in a group learning environment

Maypop Nature Classes are small-group learning experiences. Participants should be able to:

• participate respectfully in a shared learning environment

• follow instructor guidance designed to keep the group safe

• contribute to a calm and attentive atmosphere outdoors

Because Maypop Nature Classes take place outdoors in natural environments, the abilities described above are necessary for safe participation.

Maypop is committed to making learning in nature as accessible as possible. If you have specific accessibility needs or questions about terrain, distance, or pace for a particular class, please reach out before registering and we will do our best to help you determine if the experience will be a good fit.

If these guidelines do not feel like a good match for you at this time, we welcome you to explore one of our studio-based classes.