FAQ

Helpful Information

WHAT IS OUTDOOR LEARNING?

Outdoor learning takes place in a woodland or natural environment to support the development of a lifelong relationship between the learner and the natural world. It provides students an opportunity to direct their learning through an emergent and inquiry-based approach to education.
Learning outcomes are based on real-time explorations and experiences, rather than pre-determined concepts in books or on screens.

WHAT ARE YOUR LEARNING APPROACHES?

Our learning approaches include:
- Inquiry-based
- Play-based
- Experiential
- Place-based

ARE CHILDREN OUTSIDE IN ALL WEATHER CONDITIONS?

Our philosophy has children playing, learning, and connecting with the natural environment regardless of weather.
In case of severe weather including heavy rain and strong wind, we might use indoor spaces like community centers or indoor public spaces, or cancel the program in case of extreme conditions.

WHAT IS THE TEACHER-STUDENT RATIO?

1:5. This ratio depends on each group approach and its dynamic.

WHAT CLOTHING WILL MY CHILD REQUIRE?

Children need proper outdoor gear to ensure that their time outside is comfortable and warm.
We recommend:
- Loose-fitting clothing.
- Upper under layers: Wool sweater, fleece, or light jacket.
- Lower under layers: Thermal underwear pants and wool socks.
- Upper outer layers: Rain jacket and neck warmer.
- Lower under layers: Rain pants.
- Rain or hiking waterproof boots.
- Mittens and toque or hat depending on the weather.
- Spare set of clothing including socks and gloves.
- Small light backpack that your children can carry.
- Healthy snack and lunch and water bottle.
- Whistle attached to the clothing.
- Sunscreen & bug spray

DOES MY CHILD NEED TO BE TOILET TRAINED?

We recommend children to be potty trained since it can be uncomfortable for them to be changed outdoors. However, we are happy to support the child during the process of potty training and change diapers if needed.

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY AT THE NATURE SCHOOL LOOK LIKE?

Every day at Little Paws can bring new experiences and might look different from the day before.

Children lead their own learning. Educators direct the development of future lesson plans and projects depending on children's interests and questions.

Typical day:

-9:00 am: Welcome song, land recognition, and a little hike to daily learning place (Lost Lagoon, Second Beach, etc.)

-9:30: Snack and storytime

-10:00: Free playing time

-10:30: Lesson of the day (identification of plants or animals, hands-on project, nature art, etc.)

-10:45: Snack time

-11:00: Structured game

-11:30: Free playing time

-12:00: Lunch Time

-12:30: Sharing circle, goodbye song, and hike to the pick-up spot.

-13:00: Pick-up time.

WHAT SHOULD MY CHILD BRING/PACK?

Children must bring:
-Healthy snack and lunch.
-Water bottle.
-Spare set of clothes.