What are Forest and Nature Programs?

Our programs aim to connect children with nature through unstructured play and repeat exposure to the same land. Through returning to the same land children have the opportunity to deepen their connection to their surroundings. Forest and Nature programs offer children the time and space to play, learn and explore in nature. We view children as innately capable and curious and strive to provide an environment for play that contributes to confidence building, risk assessment capabilities, communication and social skills, creativity, negotiation and problem solving. For more information about Forest and Nature Schools, check out www.childnature.ca.

What types of activities will my child be doing?

Because our programs are child led, the program totally depends on the interests of the children. Common activities include: hiking, fort/shelter building, tool use, nature art, flora and fauna identification, survival skills, fire starting and cookouts, dramatic play, hammock time, group games, loose parts play, orienteering and climbing. 

What should my child wear/bring to the program?

Close toed, comfy shoes, active clothing, extra layers and a water bottle. Please see our program handbook for a full list!

Is food provided?

No, children should come with their own snacks/lunches. We feel this ensures children will have food they enjoy. Sometimes we will make food together at the program as a special activity so please let us know of any allergies. We will always have extra snacks on hand in case children are feeling extra hungry!

What are your child-facilitator ratios?

If programs are completely full, we have one facilitator for every 5 preschool aged children and one facilitator for every 7 school age children

When do programs open for registration and how can I receive updates?

We will generally open registration for programs at least two months before they begin. We will be sharing this on our social media pages and you can join our mailing list to stay updated on when registration opens.

How do I register?

Please click the link in our register now page and it will take you to the registration form. You will receive a confirmation email with an invoice and waiver. Payment is required and the waiver must be returned and signed within one week of registration or you will lose your spot.

Is there a waitlist?

If a program is full we will add you to the wait list and we will notify you if a space becomes available.

How do I pay?

We will invoice you via email. We accept payment through e-transfer, cash or cheque.

Can I register for a program after it’s started?

If there is still space in the program you are welcome to register.

What happens if a program is cancelled due to weather?

Although we believe in playing outside in all weather - there are some situations where we must cancel or shorten the program. These include: temperatures below -10 with windchill, heavy and prolonged rain or freezing rain (especially in colder temperatures), thunder and lightening, heavy winds (exceeding gusts of 60km/hr), and blizzard-like conditions. We do our best to have make-up sessions or switch the date of program, but this is not always possible. There will be no refunds for weather related cancellations

What if my child is sick?

If your child is sick and not feeling well please keep them home and let us know they won’t be coming. There will be no refunds for sick days.

Can I cancel my registration?

Yes, up to two weeks before a program starts you may cancel your registration and receive a full refund minus a $10 service fee. Within two weeks of a program starting there will be no refunds issued.

Can I attend the program with my child?

Our programs are drop off only - however if you’re registering and would like to come ahead of time to meet us and see the space we are happy to arrange it, this helps children get comfy in the space and get excited about coming back! Though the first few drop offs can be a bit tough for younger ones, they always settle in and have a great time. and if for some reason we need to contact you we can :) We do have a Monthly Stay and Play where families come and stay with their children.

How do children go to the bathroom at forest school?

Children are encouraged to pee in the forest, we also have an outhouse tent