Are you interested in an outdoor play program for your kids? Share what your needs and wants are, so these new programs can be what the community is looking for!
I am in the process of becoming certified as a Forest School Practitioner from the Child and Nature Alliance Canada, and planning to open a nature school called Valleyfield Outside in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield in September.
Forest/nature schools are extracurricular programs that encourage children to play and learn outside. There are usually groups of 6-12 kids with 2-3 adults, playing and exploring in the forest or other natural area. Forest schools are children-led and play-based, so the kids explore at their own pace. It's all about:
- Physical skills (climbing, running, tying knots, building with sticks)
- Social skills (teamwork, leadership)
- Mental health skills (freedom, nature, play)
- Science skills (observation, curiosity, experimentation)
- Connection with nature (respect, understanding, enjoyment)
Forest schools can also expand to more general outdoor programs that include adults, families, and the community in general, coming together to learn and appreciate nature.
I want to make sure that the programs match what our unique community needs -- so I want to hear from you!
Please share this survey far and wide so we can create together a program that kids in this region will love.
(Questions? Email Valleyfieldpleinair@gmail.com)