Our Story
Three decades ago…
Two educators launched Acorn Naturalists. It began as a few boxes of curricula and field guides in their garage. Today, it is a company that distributes resources to educators around the world.
During the 1980s, educators of all kinds needed more support. Many did not have access to resources for their lessons involving environmental and outdoor education. Acorn Naturalists launched and expanded the impact, consistency, and quality of nature-based learning.
Our two co-founders created a place for people to find educational tools, nature-focused activities, field equipment, and more.
“We wanted to create an ethical company that people could depend on for new ideas, resources, and inspiration.”
-Jenny, co-founder
All of our products are centered around outdoor education, exploration, nature inquiry, and hands-on learning.
Today, our two founders are deeply involved. They help design new tools and resources for our customers around the world.
We will release more about “the Acorn story” this year. Our upcoming blog posts will feature stories and interviews from the early days. Stay tuned.
We appreciate your business and are grateful for our loyal customer base.
What We Offer…
Acorn Naturalists provides resources and nature-orientated activities that connect people with the natural world.
The activities and tools we offer are inquiry-oriented. Many of our kits complement the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). We also design resources based on key concepts from Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) and STEAM (A for Art) curricula.
When you shop with us, you are supporting a small and women-owned business. With your support, we can continue to design new resources and educational materials.
We always welcome your ideas for new educational tools and resources.
Awards We’ve Received…
People applauded Acorn Naturalists for its early incorporation of “green programs.” Additionally, the League of Conservation awarded Acorn Naturalists with the Orange County Environmental Business of the Year Award.
The co-founders have received the Howard Bell Award for Outstanding Achievements and Contributions as Leaders in the Field of Environmental Education. The Association of Environmental and Outdoor Education gives this award to influential change-makers.
As a small, independent business, we wear those badges with pride.
What’s The Acorn Group?
The Acorn Group is our sister company. They specialize in museum design, playscape design, trail media, program evaluation, exhibit masterplans, and strategic planning for education.
Each year, The Acorn Group is recognized for its excellence.
Our website for The Acorn Group is undergoing a major upgrade. Feel free to come back and see our beautiful new layout!
