Nature Club is an experience where children develop an appreciation for our natural world by engaging in it.  The goal of the program is to create a sense of wonder at the world's richness.  Nature Club is offered as part of CREST Child Care.  The program operates on a 4-5 week "unit" that is developed by Marilyn Judson and taught by our very own CREST staff.  During their weekly lessons children are taught about such subjects as:

• Marine Biology

• Butterflies, Bird and Insects

• Gardening

• People and Nature: We are One

• Sustainability

Nature Club participants also attend occasional excursions to the following:

• Nearby State Parks

• SM Pier Aquarium

• Beaches

• Ballona Wetlands

• City Facilities

• And more!

If you would like to sign your child up for CREST Child Care, or you would like more information, please call the CREST Youth Office at (310) 458-8540.

Marilyn Judson, the creator of the Nature Club curriculum, has an M.S. and 25 yeas of experience in Environmental Regulations.  In 1998 she chose to make a career change from her work at an oil refinery and aircraft factory to environmental education.  She has worked with non-profits such as the Friends of Ballona Wetlands, Santa Monica Restoration Commission, Catalina Island Conservancy, Algalita Marine Foundation, Heal the Bay, and the Audubon Society.  She also worked as an substitute teacher with SMMUSD and LAUSD for several years.  In 2005, she became the "CREST Environmental Educator".