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Financial assistance is for any of our events or programs that are not set up on a "Sliding Scale" registration fee.  If you need further assistance on the sliding scale, please contact us directly before filling out the financial aid form.

Steps for applying for financial assistance:

1. Register for the program you want to attend: follow the registration process and at the end choose "pay with PayPal". Once PayPals website opens, close it without paying, this will hold your spot marking it pending payment. Without following this step your registration will not be submitted and your space wont be held.
2. Come Back here and complete the application below: Once you submit your registration form please come back to this page to apply for a scholarship (if you are applying for two or more kids you must add them to the quantity box and list them separately)
3. Once you complete the application Process choose the"pay with PayPal" option and pay the **$50 deposit required from each participant.  This non refundable deposit holds your space in the program and will be applied to the registration balance once we figure out your financial aid package.
4. Once the application is submitted and Deposit is received: Provide a copy of your most recent household tax filings by mailing them to: Ancestral Knowledge PO Box 6 · Brentwood, MD 20722 . (please black out all SS#'s) All finacial documents are shredded after review.
5. Once the above steps are completed we will review and award available funds to the applicants who qualify. We review applications on a first come first served basis. This process may take up to 6 weeks after receiving documentation, please submit your forms early depending on the time of submission.

**We do not provide full scholarships, everyone is required to pay the $50 deposit to participate.

The Way of the Woods-The Basics program is perfect for those who want to connect with nature and start building the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program introduces participants to a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 8-12 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 7 weeks $350-$750 (sliding scale)
Where: Ancestral Knowledge Museum & Research Center in Riverdale/Lanham MD
When:  Saturday's 10:00am-3pm  (Jan 24th, Feb 14 & 21, March 7 & 21, April 4 & 18, May 2, 16, & 30)

The Wisdom of the Woods- Teens program is perfect for those who want to continue their connection with nature, and build upon the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program encourages participants to strengthen a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. We will delve deeper into our projects and survival skills, empowering makers and increasing coordination and confidence.

This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 13-17 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 10 weeks $450-$675 Sliding Scale (pay what you are comfortable paying)
Where: Lanham, MD
When: Saturday's  10:30am-4pm  (Jan 24th, Feb 7 & 21, March 7 & 21, April 4 & 18, May 2, 16, & 30)

The Wisdom of the Woods- Teens program is perfect for those who want to continue their connection with nature, and build upon the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program encourages participants to strengthen a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. We will delve deeper into our projects and survival skills, empowering makers and increasing coordination and confidence.

This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 13-17 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 10 weeks $450-$675 Sliding Scale (pay what you are comfortable paying)
Where: Lanham, MD
When: Saturday's  10:30am-4pm  (Jan 24, Feb 7, Feb 21, Mar 7, Mar 21, Apr 4, Apr 18, May 2, May 16, May 30 view on calendar )

The Way of the Woods-The Basics program is perfect for those who want to connect with nature and start building the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program introduces participants to a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 8-12 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 7 weeks $350-$750 (sliding scale)
Where: Ancestral Knowledge Museum & Research Center in Riverdale/Lanham MD
When:  Saturday's 10:00am-3pm  (Jan 24th, Feb 14 & 21, March 7 & 21, April 4 & 18, May 2, 16, & 30)

This program is not your run of the mill "Hunter's Education class" which primarily focuses on firearm safety. This program is designed for those who want to become proficient in the art of hunting with a bow, one of our oldest and most effective hunting tools. No prior hunting or archery experience is necessary. We will incorporate both modern and traditional tactics to provide a well rounded foundation for your hunts. Your time during this program will be spent working on these skills, along with field study and research. By the end of the program you will have the skills and knowledge to take what you have learned and adapt it to any environment and many other species.

This is the basic version of our most intense apprenticeship, taking you on a journey through the most essential parts of the hunt.

Ages:  13 & Older (under 18 must be accompanied by a parent)
When:  January - October, 2026
Where: Ancestral Knowledge Museum & Research Center
Registration Fee: $300-$700 Sliding Scale (pay what you're comfortable)

Here is a list of what you can expect to learn during this program:

The Way of the Woods-The Basics program is perfect for those who want to connect with nature and start building the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program introduces participants to a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 8-12 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 7 weeks $350-$750 (sliding scale)
Where: Ancestral Knowledge Museum & Research Center in Riverdale/Lanham MD
When:  Saturday's 10:00am-3pm  (Jan 24th, Feb 14 & 21, March 7 & 21, April 4 & 18, May 2, 16, & 30)

The Wisdom of the Woods- Teens program is perfect for those who want to continue their connection with nature, and build upon the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program encourages participants to strengthen a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. We will delve deeper into our projects and survival skills, empowering makers and increasing coordination and confidence.

This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 13-17 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 10 weeks $450-$675 Sliding Scale (pay what you are comfortable paying)
Where: Lanham, MD
When: Saturday's  10:30am-4pm  (Jan 24, Feb 7, Feb 21, Mar 7, Mar 21, Apr 4, Apr 18, May 2, May 16, May 30 view on calendar )

The Way of the Woods-The Basics program is perfect for those who want to connect with nature and start building the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program introduces participants to a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 8-12 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 7 weeks $350-$750 (sliding scale)
Where: Ancestral Knowledge Museum & Research Center in Riverdale/Lanham MD
When:  Saturday's 10:00am-3pm  (Jan 24th, Feb 14 & 21, March 7 & 21, April 4 & 18, May 2, 16, & 30)

The Wisdom of the Woods- Teens program is perfect for those who want to continue their connection with nature, and build upon the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program encourages participants to strengthen a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. We will delve deeper into our projects and survival skills, empowering makers and increasing coordination and confidence.

This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 13-17 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 10 weeks $450-$675 Sliding Scale (pay what you are comfortable paying)
Where: Lanham, MD
When: Saturday's  10:30am-4pm  (Jan 24, Feb 7, Feb 21, Mar 7, Mar 21, Apr 4, Apr 18, May 2, May 16, May 30 view on calendar )

The Wild Edible Plants & Mushrooms Foragers Series will take you through 9 Months of the year to better connect you with our local plant community. It will enroll you in each of our wild plant walks for every month from March through November, plus our salves and tinctures class and will give you a discount code for the fall Wild Foods Weekend or any other plant focused workshops we run for the year.

Learning to identify and build relationships with plants is one of the most enriching ways we can deepen our personal nature connection journey. Come along to enjoy a walk in nature and meet a variety of edible, medicinal, and useful plants in all seasons. This class will weave through topics such as:
- Botany basics
- Foraging for food and fun
- Traditional ethnobotanical knowledge
- Intro to herbalism
- Species and landscape ecology
- Safe and honorable harvest principles
- Plant processing and preservation methods
- Honing awareness and connection to the natural world

The Way of the Woods-The Basics program is perfect for those who want to connect with nature and start building the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program introduces participants to a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 8-12 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 7 weeks $350-$750 (sliding scale)
Where: Ancestral Knowledge Museum & Research Center in Riverdale/Lanham MD
When:  Saturday's 10:00am-3pm  (Jan 24th, Feb 14 & 21, March 7 & 21, April 4 & 18, May 2, 16, & 30)

The Wisdom of the Woods- Teens program is perfect for those who want to continue their connection with nature, and build upon the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program encourages participants to strengthen a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. We will delve deeper into our projects and survival skills, empowering makers and increasing coordination and confidence.

This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 13-17 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 10 weeks $450-$675 Sliding Scale (pay what you are comfortable paying)
Where: Lanham, MD
When: Saturday's  10:30am-4pm  (Jan 24, Feb 7, Feb 21, Mar 7, Mar 21, Apr 4, Apr 18, May 2, May 16, May 30 view on calendar )

The Way of the Woods-The Basics program is perfect for those who want to connect with nature and start building the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program introduces participants to a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 8-12 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 7 weeks $350-$750 (sliding scale)
Where: Ancestral Knowledge Museum & Research Center in Riverdale/Lanham MD
When:  Saturday's 10:00am-3pm  (Jan 24th, Feb 14 & 21, March 7 & 21, April 4 & 18, May 2, 16, & 30)

The Wisdom of the Woods- Teens program is perfect for those who want to continue their connection with nature, and build upon the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program encourages participants to strengthen a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. We will delve deeper into our projects and survival skills, empowering makers and increasing coordination and confidence.

This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 13-17 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 10 weeks $450-$675 Sliding Scale (pay what you are comfortable paying)
Where: Lanham, MD
When: Saturday's  10:30am-4pm  (Jan 24, Feb 7, Feb 21, Mar 7, Mar 21, Apr 4, Apr 18, May 2, May 16, May 30 view on calendar )

The Way of the Woods-The Basics program is perfect for those who want to connect with nature and start building the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program introduces participants to a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 8-12 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 7 weeks $350-$750 (sliding scale)
Where: Ancestral Knowledge Museum & Research Center in Riverdale/Lanham MD
When:  Saturday's 10:00am-3pm  (Jan 24th, Feb 14 & 21, March 7 & 21, April 4 & 18, May 2, 16, & 30)

The Wisdom of the Woods- Teens program is perfect for those who want to continue their connection with nature, and build upon the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program encourages participants to strengthen a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. We will delve deeper into our projects and survival skills, empowering makers and increasing coordination and confidence.

This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 13-17 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 10 weeks $450-$675 Sliding Scale (pay what you are comfortable paying)
Where: Lanham, MD
When: Saturday's  10:30am-4pm  (Jan 24, Feb 7, Feb 21, Mar 7, Mar 21, Apr 4, Apr 18, May 2, May 16, May 30 view on calendar )

The Way of the Woods-The Basics program is perfect for those who want to connect with nature and start building the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program introduces participants to a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 8-12 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 7 weeks $350-$750 (sliding scale)
Where: Ancestral Knowledge Museum & Research Center in Riverdale/Lanham MD
When:  Saturday's 10:00am-3pm  (Jan 24th, Feb 14 & 21, March 7 & 21, April 4 & 18, May 2, 16, & 30)

The Wisdom of the Woods- Teens program is perfect for those who want to continue their connection with nature, and build upon the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program encourages participants to strengthen a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. We will delve deeper into our projects and survival skills, empowering makers and increasing coordination and confidence.

This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 13-17 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 10 weeks $450-$675 Sliding Scale (pay what you are comfortable paying)
Where: Lanham, MD
When: Saturday's  10:30am-4pm  (Jan 24, Feb 7, Feb 21, Mar 7, Mar 21, Apr 4, Apr 18, May 2, May 16, May 30 view on calendar )

The Way of the Woods-The Basics program is perfect for those who want to connect with nature and start building the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program introduces participants to a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 8-12 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 7 weeks $350-$750 (sliding scale)
Where: Ancestral Knowledge Museum & Research Center in Riverdale/Lanham MD
When:  Saturday's 10:00am-3pm  (Jan 24th, Feb 14 & 21, March 7 & 21, April 4 & 18, May 2, 16, & 30)

The Wisdom of the Woods- Teens program is perfect for those who want to continue their connection with nature, and build upon the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program encourages participants to strengthen a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. We will delve deeper into our projects and survival skills, empowering makers and increasing coordination and confidence.

This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 13-17 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 10 weeks $450-$675 Sliding Scale (pay what you are comfortable paying)
Where: Lanham, MD
When: Saturday's  10:30am-4pm  (Jan 24, Feb 7, Feb 21, Mar 7, Mar 21, Apr 4, Apr 18, May 2, May 16, May 30 view on calendar )

The Mid-Atlantic Primitive Skills Gathering (MAPS Meet) is an ideal event to kick-start your summer. It provides an opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle of modern life, letting you reconnect with nature's healing powers. Regardless of your outdoor experience, our expert instructors are ready to impart their knowledge at various levels. The topics covered every year are diverse, ranging from Fire by Friction, Natural Fibers, Stone and Bone Tools, Brain Tanning Leather, Natural Basketry, Primitive Pottery, Foraging, to Bows and Arrows, and much more

2026 Sessions Schedule

MAPS Meet is a intimate event with limited availability, accommodating a cozy 100 participants ages 13 and over. We generally reach full capacity very quickly, so please register early to guarantee your participation!

While participating in the  Homeschool Naturalist Program is an experiential learning environment where your child will learn about all the earth sciences; botany, entomology, and basic biology.  Our hands-on approach helps create a deep nature connection while having fun learning . Our experienced Field Instructors and Mentors plan through the seasons as they use ancient knowledge and wisdom to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.  We take a deep dive into observing and learning about the local flora and fauna through activities and tasks involving; animal tracking, plant & tree identification, natural crafts and other hands-on skills.  These experiences helps create confident, strong, self sufficient learners. Our 100% outdoorprogram is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom it is our teacher and the foundation of every experience.

We will go on adventures back in time and learn  about the resources that have provided our ancestors with the four basic elements of life; shelter, water, fire, and food.  Through a numbers of Earth based skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how to manage these resources found in nature, as they learn how to be stewards of the land.

Through the ancient tradition of coyote teaching, we are helping build a community of natural leaders that will has; a sense of belonging; a passion to succeed; and problem solving skills

This is a drop off program with age-appropriate activities.

Ages: 7-14 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 7 weeks $315-$560 sliding scale (you pay what you are comfortable paying)
Where: Ancestral Knowledge Nature Museum and Research Center, Lanham, MD
When: Monday's 10:30am-3:00pm once a week 8/31/2026-5/24/2027 (please refer to our calendar for the exact dates)

The Way of the Woods-The Basics program is perfect for those who want to connect with nature and start building the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program introduces participants to a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 8-12 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 7 weeks $350-$750 (sliding scale)
Where: Ancestral Knowledge Museum & Research Center in Riverdale/Lanham MD
When:  Saturday's 10:00am-3pm  (Jan 24th, Feb 14 & 21, March 7 & 21, April 4 & 18, May 2, 16, & 30)

The Wisdom of the Woods- Teens program is perfect for those who want to continue their connection with nature, and build upon the foundation to a lifetime of adventure and outdoor skills.  This program encourages participants to strengthen a deep nature connection as our experienced mentors use the knowledge of our ancestors to guide them through meaningful nature-based experiences.

We will explore the flora and fauna of the local area through animal tracking and plant identification and experience first-hand the interconnectedness of things. We will delve deeper into our projects and survival skills, empowering makers and increasing coordination and confidence.

This 100% outdoor program is like no other, as nature is not only our classroom and our teacher it's the foundation of every lesson and experience.

Through many different Earth skills and natural crafts, your child will learn how nature has provided us the four sacred elements of survival - shelter, water, fire and food. We will go on adventures and learn how to manage these resources and become stewards of the land.

This ancestral knowledge is your birthright and has been passed down through many generations. Through the tradition of coyote teaching we are building a community of natural leaders that will hold this ancient wisdom and continue to pass it on to future generations to come.

This is a drop off program with age appropriate activities.

Ages: 13-17 (Participants must be of age at the start of the program)
Registration fee: 10 weeks $450-$675 Sliding Scale (pay what you are comfortable paying)
Where: Lanham, MD
When: Saturday's  10:30am-4pm  (Jan 24, Feb 7, Feb 21, Mar 7, Mar 21, Apr 4, Apr 18, May 2, May 16, May 30 view on calendar )

Aftercare is available after each day camp between the hours of 4:16-5:30pm. **there is a $15 late fee if not picked up by 5:45pm

The fee is $80 per child per week or $16 per day.

To figure out your aftercare fee, please use one of the following equations:

To pay for a week of aftercare - # of campers  X  # of camp weeks  =  Quantity)

To pay for daily aftercare choose how many days. (# of campers = Quantity)

*please ignore the dates on the confirmation email.

Register for Aftercare

A bow is only as good as the arrows shot from it. Even the straightest stick you can find will still have wobbles and twists that need to be straightened before it is ready to be made into an arrow.

This two day workshop teaches the complete process of primitive arrow making. From harvesting the arrow shaft to taking the shot, you will learn all the steps it takes to make the most important piece of the bow hunting equation.  You will learn different sources of arrow shafts, two methods of arrow straightening, spine testing, and how to fletch and haft your own arrow. You will walk away from this class with a deeper respect and understanding of the primitive arrow and hunting.  If time permits there will be a flint knapping demonstration on how stone points are made.

Ages:  18 & Older
Where: Ancestral Knowledge Museum & Research Center - Riverdale, MD
When: June 20-21, 9am-5pm
Registration Fee: $125-$225 Sliding Scale (pay what you are comfortable)

Learning to identify and build relationships with plants is one of the most enriching ways we can deepen our personal nature connection journey. Come along to enjoy a walk in nature and meet a variety of edible, medicinal, and useful plants in all seasons. This class will weave through topics such as:
- Botany basics
- Foraging for food and fun
- Traditional ethnobotanical knowledge
- Intro to herbalism
- Species and landscape ecology
- Safe and honorable harvest principles
- Plant processing and preservation methods
- Honing awareness and connection to the natural world

Age: 10 & Older (under 16 must be accompanied by a parent)
When: 9am-12pm June 13th
Location: Lanham MD
Registration Fee: $25-$65 (pay what you are comfortable)

Our Woods Wise Camps will be an experience your kids will never forget. Advancing through the different levels of our camps, in a safe learning environment, with experienced instructors, our campers will learn ancient & practical skills, become more aware, and more comfortable in the forests.

Participants are guided through experiences that nurture their connection to the earth and allow them to feel at home in a natural environment.

Woods Wise I Come explore ournatural surroundings, becoming more comfortable in the wilderness. As we wander and explore our local forests, this nature program provides an exciting week of discovery, adventure and games. The participants will learn; how to blend and flow within nature, build a proper camp fire, make natural cordage, track animals, basic wilderness survival techniques and lost proofing. The campers will work together in small groups honing their awareness and connecting with the natural world.

Woods Wise II - This nature based program is the next step in becoming closer to the earth. Our campers will learn more advanced wilderness skills like Fire by friction, natural basketry, primitive pottery, natural camouflage, atlatl, and animal tracking! (must be 9 years or older and taken Woods Wise I)

Woods Wise III - This our most advanced day camp! This camp focuses on the skills that were the most important for sustainable wilderness living and survival. Our ancestors had the skills to live anywhere in the world. This camp focuses on the skills of the ancient Hunter/Gatherer. We will explore several advanced skills that include; archery, open fire cooking, wild edible plants, advanced camouflage, hunting, trapping, stone tools, advanced fire making, and the art of invisibility.  (Must be 10 years old and attended Woods Wise I & II)

Ages: 7 - 14 (we place kids in age and skill appropriate groups)
Price: $325
When: 9am-4pm (aftercare is available)
Location: Greenbelt MD