Youth Programs
Wilderness Torah offers pluralistic Jewish, nature-based education and community for youth and their families, as well as mentorship for children and teens in grades K–12.
We nourish strong relationships between youth, Jewish life, and the natural world while building their resilience and capacity.
Top 4 Reasons to Join Youth Programs
We are committed to fostering long-lasting, positive mentorship for children from as early as Kindergarten, all the way through their teens. This ensures they have a rooted experience with Jewish identity, intergenerational community, and the natural world.
Guided by the cycles of the seasons and the Hebrew Calendar, we experience Jewish wisdom amongst the trees. Through songs, stories, holiday celebrations, blessings, and rituals, we build embodied connection with nature and Jewish tradition.
At Wilderness Torah, youth learn how to lean into community and connect with their own inherent wisdom. Through practices that nurture self-connection and authentic relationships, youth cultivate resilience in a rapidly-changing world that is in need of deep healing.
Fostering parent and family relationships is just as important as your children’s learning. This is why we are building community among our families by providing opportunities such as potlucks and learning days so parents grow alongside their children.
Testimonials
“My favorite part of the day was making a dreidel out of clay!”
— 5th Grader in B’hootz
“When I was at school, it would drain my energy but every time I went to B’naiture it was like a breath of fresh air!”
— 7th grader in B’naiture
“I wish every teen could have a time like this to be free and challenged and supported.“
— Shomrim Parent
Join an Upcoming Discovery Night
Are you curious about B’hootz or B’naiture, and want to find out more?
Join an upcoming Discovery Night to get a taste of Wilderness Torah Youth Programs.
Youth Program Discovery Nights
You are invited to join our hands-on nature workshops for youth and families. This is a great way to meet other nature-loving families while doing a fun activity with your kids outdoors. Sign up for one or for all!
Youth Programs Grades K-12
B’hootz
Sunday School in the Woods
Grades K–5
B’naiture
Wilderness Coming-of-Age Program
Grades 6–8
Award-winning two-year program supporting youth and their families in the adolescent transition
Teen Programs
Grades 8–12
Teen backpacking adventures and leadership programs based on earth-based Jewish practices
Shomrim Leadership Program:
- Monthly fire circles
- 3 Day backpacking trip in the fall
- 7 Day backpacking trip in early summer
- Learn to build and lead peer community
- Receive support from mentors and peers as you navigate the challenges of high school
Neshama Quest:
- 7 Day Backpacking adventure in the Sierras
- Build Jewish community in the backcountry
- Celebrate Shabbat in the Mountains
- Opportunity for a Solo experience in deep nature
Thank You to Our Youth Programs Supporters
