Because kids can use a release after a long day of work, just like adults.
Two Options Available for Families’ Convenience:
You drop off at play site between 3:50-4:00 p.m.
We pickup your child from Ecole Victoria School after dismissal and walk over to our play site together.
Why Forest School After School?
After a full day of regular school structure, children can benefit from the freedom to move their body how they choose. Our after school program responds to this need by providing children with freedom of movement and choice as well as opportunities for leadership, social play and to decompress. Some days kids may be drawn to climb or collaborate on a building project, while on other days be more inclined to gather and create with nature objects or flop down on the ground to observe a critter at work. We honour where children’s minds and bodies are at in the moment and support them in articulating and initiating experiences that best suit them.
Forest school provides a holistic learning experience. Unlike a traditional curricular environment, the learning outcomes are not pre-planned. Our leaders plan and adapt the sessions in response to children's interests leading to highly meaningful learning experiences (a.k.a. an emergent curriculum). Children are encouraged to follow and extend their own learning interests in the outdoors.
This program is designed to be a convenient way to build nature immersion and play-based learning into your child’s week. Forest School After School promotes respect for our natural environment and a sense of well-being in nature. Our leaders look for opportunities to help develop nature connection, confidence, self-esteem, social skills, physical ability, and independence. This program is led by a certified teacher, with additional Outdoor Education and Forest School training.
What does a typical session look like?
initial discovery and settling in
opening circle
facilitated learning activity in response to children’s interests, and challenges.
time to explore the activity
snack
free play and exploration
closing circle, including group discussion and participant input for next week’s plans
Dates: Thursday after school, Sept. 16th - Dec. 16th (14 weeks) .
Times: 3:50 - 4:00 p.m. drop off window. 5:50 - 6:05 p.m. pickup window.
Option: Pickup from Ecole Victoria School after dismissal and walk to our play site.
Locations: Cosmopolitan Park along the South Saskatchewan River in Saskatoon. Specific drop off and pickup location will be communicated in parent handbook.
Program Registration: $26.00/ session. $365 /14 sessions.
Requirements: Participants need to have a backpack, and as we get into snow season: insulating snow gear, base layers, toque, neck-warmer, wool or synthetic socks, winter boots, snacks, water bottle and a foam pad to sit on. This is an active program and participants should be in good physical condition to enjoy themselves (e.g. able to comfortably walk for 60 minutes).
Our Covid-19 Response Includes:
We are following Saskatoon Public Schools and Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools Covid-19 safety protocols. At this time wearing masks outdoors during our programs is a family decision, which we will support.
Covid-19 screening questions, and stay-at-home if sick requirements are in place.
We use hand sanitizer before and after snack and after washroom use.
We facilitate individuals spreading out to eat. We ask that all toys be left at home.
Registered participants will receive detailed information by email in advance outlining our meeting spots, what to pack, and how we operate.
Cancellation: A refund, minus a 10% administration fee, can be issued up until one week prior to this event. After this time no refund will be issued.