MOST POPULAR QUESTIONS AMONG OUR MEMBERS PARENTS...
What is the cost?
We offer a few different enrollment plans to meet the needs of families while keeping our program accessible and rooted in meaningful outdoor education.
A.) Full Week Program (Most Common Plan)
Our most immersive option is Monday–Friday at $600 per month, plus a one-time non-refundable deposit of $600. This plan fully immerses keiki in nature-based learning with no electronics, focusing instead on hands-on experiences such as exploring forests, working in loʻi patches, foraging, learning safe knife skills, practicing positive and effective communication, and building lifelong friendships. Students experience our nomadic education model, where each location offers new environments, challenges, and lessons that deepen their connection to ʻāina and build confidence through real-world learning. ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi is woven into daily learning to connect children to the language of the land. Each week offers a diverse outdoor environment where true freedom of learning unfolds—through building skills, crafts, swimming, surfing, and even embracing muddy, rainy-day adventures that strengthen resilience and joy in nature. Many members are on this plan, due to the f
B.) Two-Day Program
Our second option is a Tuesday and Thursday program at $450 per month, plus a one-time $450 non-refundable deposit. This plan includes consistent weekly meeting locations and incorporates foundational cultural learning such as ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi. While it is a slightly more structured schedule, students still engage in meaningful outdoor experiences, skill-building, and peer connection, though not at the same level of full weekly immersion as our five-day program. Each day focuses on intentional, hands-on learning tied to the natural environment and community, helping keiki grow in confidence, awareness, and connection to place.
C.) One-Day Drop-In Program
We also offer a $150 per day drop-in option, primarily intended for trial experiences or visiting families who would like their child to experience time in the outdoors with us. While this is not our most common enrollment option, we recognize the importance of flexibility and are happy to accommodate community needs when possible. This option still provides a meaningful outdoor experience, introducing keiki to our values, environment, and learning style in a single day of exploration and connection.
Payment Policy:
All deposits are due at the time of sign-up and registration. Monthly contributions are due on or before the 1st of every month. A late fee of $25 per day will be applied for any late payments. For Plan C (drop-in days), payment is required in full prior to the start of the scheduled day of attendance.
What if my child gets injured?
At Pono Outdoor Program, the safety and wellbeing of every keiki is our highest priority. All staff are fully certified in First Aid and CPR, and we carry well-stocked first aid kits at all times during every excursion to ensure immediate and appropriate care if needed. In the rare event of an incident, our team responds quickly and calmly, following established safety protocols while keeping your child supported and comfortable.
Parents are notified promptly if anything occurs. We will communicate the time, date, and details of the incident, along with a description of the care provided and any steps taken to ensure your child’s wellbeing. While outdoor learning naturally involves some level of risk, serious incidents are highly unlikely due to our close supervision, safety training, and intentional teaching practices that emphasize awareness and responsible decision-making in nature.
Does a child runaway, into the forest?
In practice, this is extremely unlikely. Pono Outdoor Program operates with close supervision, clear group structures, and strict safety boundaries that are constantly reinforced throughout the day. Keiki are always within defined activity areas and are regularly accounted for through headcounts and group check-ins during transitions, hikes, and activities.
Staff are trained to maintain line-of-sight or close proximity depending on the environment, and children are taught clear expectations about staying within the group at all times. We also use consistent routines, partner systems, and designated meeting points so that movement in nature is structured and monitored.
If a child were ever to move away from the group, immediate response protocols are in place. Staff are trained to respond quickly, safely, and calmly to ensure the child is located immediately and brought back into supervision.
How fast can my child start your program?
We are so happy to welcome your family into our association. Once you express interest in enrollment, the process begins with a brief phone interview so we can connect with you, answer any questions, and ensure the program is the right fit for your child.
After the interview, you will be given access to our foundational documents and member contribution instructions through a secure online system, making the process simple and convenient for families. Once all required forms are completed and your initial deposit and contributions are received, along with confirmation sent to our email, we will officially add your child to our roster.
From there, start dates can be quite flexible. In many cases, students can begin shortly after registration is complete. We understand that families may still be gathering supplies, and we do our best to support a smooth transition into the program. If basic gear is in place, your child is welcome to begin even while additional items are on the way, as we always plan ahead to accommodate changing weather conditions and ensure every keiki is prepared for the day’s environment.
Our goal is to make the onboarding process seamless, supportive, and welcoming so your child can step confidently into their outdoor learning journey as soon as possible.
If you are interested in enrollment please click our "get started" tab above and we will give you a call to enroll. Once the call is completed you will get the password for the "Join us" button below, and you can begin the registration process. We can't wait to meet you.