About
Mud Pies was founded in 2017 by Lauren Iversen. This idea came to her when thinking about how to get children away from electronics and more curious about nature.
I am Lauren, the founder of Mud Pies! I have been an educator for the past 6 years, teaching Pre-kindergarten through third grade! I also volunteer with Girl Scouts. Having my own children has helped me realize the importance of nature. Whenever I take my girls outside, their mood always improves, they explore freely, and we are getting great exercise! As a parent, I know it is hard to find time to get outdoors as much as we would like, let alone plan fun activities for our children to explore nature! This was my foundation for starting Mud Pies.
I believe exploring nature is an important part of childhood. What better way to engage your child in outdoor play than joining a play-based nature exploration group where your child can enjoy being guided through the great outdoors with STEM-based activities and also get time to freely discover what nature has to offer.
Dr. Kenneth Ginsberg says it best, “ Nature places virtually no bounds on the imagination and engages all of the senses. For all children, this setting allows for the full blossoming of creativity, curiosity, and the associated developmental advances.”
I am truly excited for the opportunity share my passion for teaching and exploring nature with your child! We will see you outside!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can parents participate?
Yes! I encourage parents to stay and help facilitate learning with your child! You are your child’s first teacher, and including you on this journey will give you a chance to bond with your child in a different capacity! One parent per child/per siblings is required to stay for safety, and to be in charge of any behavior issues that may arise.
What will my child be doing during the class?
Each week your child comes to their Mud Pies class, we will be focusing on a theme for the day. It may be exploring with science tools, doing a nature scavenger hunt, creating with found items, collecting a certain number of items, anything and everything STEM related! (science, technology, engineering, mathematics). Each week you will get information on how to continue the learning we did in class, at home!
How long are the classes?
Classes will range between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on age, activity, weather, etc.
I want to sign up for a class! How do I pay for a class?
Great! If you are interested in signing up for a class, please click on the "Contact" button at the top of the page. Please send a message and include what class you are interested in, what age group, your child's name, and their age. I will get back to you within 1 business day! I will also send you a PayPal invoice to pay for the class.
Where will classes be located?
We will hold most classes at Flat Fork Creek Park in Fishers. If there is enough interest in a neighboring city, I may form more classes!
What do we bring?
Please make sure you are all dressed appropriately, with the necessary clothing, footwear, hats and/or sunscreen to be outdoors!
What happens if the weather isn't cooperating during our scheduled class time?
Part of the FUN of Mud Pies classes is being outside, even if it is sprinkling! Classes will be held (light) rain or shine. If the weather is severe, class will be cancelled. Please look for weather updates on our Facebook page. Classes will be rescheduled if they are cancelled. Always come dressed ready to PLAY and LEARN, despite the weather!
