Nature Program
Play, adventure and explore!
SCBGC Nature Programs are all outdoor based nature programs where children are free to move about their space, explore the land they are on and engage with peers and educated program facilitators in a supportive and caring environment. Our programs are based off of the understandings that children are naturally curious and willing to play and explore the world around them. Following the lead of the child, program facilitators are supporting their interests and the learning that comes from their own personal experiences in nature and with others. Facilitators are there to offer guidance and support to children throughout their time in the program and nurture the relationships that shift and change throughout the day.
What can be expected throughout all nature session:
- Themed weeks based off of the season/weather
- Emergent learning curriculum
- Loose parts, open-ended activities and games
- Following the BGC core values (Belonging, Respect, Encouragement and Support, Working Together, Speaking Out)
- Personalized child interest updates (your child's nature journey)
- A sense of community and supportive environment
- Constant risk assessments due to the ever-changing outdoor environment
Programming Options
ReWild Your Child
ReWild Your Child Nature Program runs one full-year session from September until June. Programming is offered twice a week with the options of a Monday/Wednesday OR a Tuesday/Thursday group.
Full Day: Available to children 4-6 years of age *Great for Kindergarten children opposite days
Start time: 9am
End time: 2pm
2023/2024 Session runs from Starting week of September 6 2023 - week of June 19 2024. There will be NO program running over Fall Break November 6-10, 2023, Winter Break December 23, 2023 - January 7, 2024, and Spring Break March 25 - 29, 2024.
Cost
ReWild Your Child - $250 per month
*Children must be able to toilet independently without support. Please contact the Director of Nature Programs with any questions or further clarifications.
ReWild Your Child Programs qualify for the Government of Alberta Subsidy Program! If you want to learn more, reach out to our Nature Program Staff!
To register for ANY Nature Program, please click the link HERE for our online registration platform.
Forest Friends
Forest Friends is a child led outdoor play program that runs three separate seasonal sessions from September through June.
Our child-led outdoor program immerses young learners in the wonders of the natural world. Guided by their curiosity and interests, children engage in creative outdoor play, hands-on nature exploration, and collaborative learning experiences. Through gentle guidance, we empower children to develop a deep connection with nature, fostering their imagination, problem-solving skills, and social interactions. Our dedicated educators provide a safe and nurturing environment where children flourish, building a foundation for a lifelong love of learning and a strong bond with the environment.
Wednesday and Friday morning classes run from 9-11AM and Friday afternoon classes are 12-2PM.
Children must be able to toilet independently without support. Please contact the Director of Nature Programs with any questions or further clarifications.
Program dates for the 2023/2024 year
Fall 2023 session: Starting week of September 13 - week of December 8 (no programming November 6-10 for Fall Break)
Winter 2024 session: Starting week of January 12th - week of March 22
Spring 2024 session: Starting week of April 3rd - week of June 21st
Program Location
#3 Spruce Ave, Sherwood Park, AB
Children and Youth Community Center
Cost
Wednesday and Friday Morning Program $175 per month ($525 total per session)
Friday Afternoon Program $125 per month ($375 total per session)
To register for ANY Nature Program, please click the link HERE for our online registration platform.
Nature Discovery
Nature Discovery is a program for children 5-10 years of age who would like to adventure, play and develop new skills outdoors in a forest setting. Topics that may be introduced alongside natural exploration include shelter buiding, ropes and knot tying, observing animal habitats, forest safety, supported risky play and environmental stewardship. Facilitators will take into account the weather and seasonal chenges along with participant interests when planning weekly activities. The program will run out of Centennial Park and is weather dependent. It may cancel last minute if it is not safe due to temperature or weather.
Participants can register for a block of sessions, with rates reflecting the amount of sessions. Registration is available through RecDesk and Monique will be in contact the family once registered regarding payment.
Session Information
To register for ANY Nature Program, please click the link HERE for our online registration platform.
For more information please contact Monique Lozeron, Director of Nature Programs
Phone: 780-416-1500
Email: monique@scbgc.com