Nature connect

NATURE CONNECT
2022-2023 Fall Registration Now Open.

Nature Connect is now full but we are accepting registration and are close to opening a second group. Please register above to be added to our waitlist. Once we have enough registered the second group will open and the rate will be prorated.

If a child has been able in his play, to give up their whole loving being to the world around them, they will be able, in the serious tasks of later life, to devote themselves with confidence and power to the service of the world. .
-Rudolf Steiner

Our Nature Connect Program runs on Fridays for elementary students. Our unique urban nature program instils a
sense of reverence for Nature, a respect for the environment, within a natural setting that fosters
resilience, teamwork, confidence and hands on skills.

What is Nature Connect?
Nature Connect is a one-day outdoor school program dedicated to creating awe, wonder and beauty for the natural world, in an urban environment. Students will establish connections to mother nature through careful observations of their surroundings, the seasons, the plants, foliage and fauna. A weekly rhythm will connect students to the program beginning each session with circle-time, nature verses and outdoor games. Art work will take inspiration from natural forms and seasonal weather changes will influence program planning.

Who is the Nature Connect program for?
Nature Connect is for grades 1-8*. It is a perfect complement to the 4-day main lesson grade school program at Polaris, or as a stand-alone one day program for students attending a public school or home-school and looking for a one-day supplementary nature program. The emphasis will be on creating a mixed-grade class community that connects through a love and respect for nature.
*Note that students at Polaris must turn 6 by June 30th to be ready for Grade 1 in September. If your child has a summer/fall birthday please contact the school before registering.

Where will the Nature Connect program take place?
The program will be anchored at Polaris School and Centre, with pick up and drop off there. A deep connection to the natural urban landscape surrounding the school will be nourished through the cultivation of the land into usable community gardens. In addition, the program will also use near-by public green spaces in the neighbourhood.

Who is leading the Nature Connect program?
The program is led by experienced outdoor educators Cole McLaughlin and Bethany Leonard. They have both been working as outdoor educators for various years and are excited to be involved in this new initiative at Polaris, bringing their expertise to our holistic educational setting.

What will students attending the program need?
Students participating in the Nature Connect program should have a willingness to find reverence and beauty in their natural surroundings. They should be prepared to build a community through a shared love of nature and to embrace all seasonal elements with resilience and humor. Students should also be willing to work in mixed-grade groups.

“There is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothes.”
- Ralph Fiennes

How much does the program cost?
September 30th to December 16th 2022 (12 classes): $690
January 6th to March 3rd 2023 (9 classes): $518
March 24th to June 16th 2022(12 classes): $690

Registration is open and cost will be prorated for those joining after the start date, if space is available.

When will the program occur?
Fridays from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm.
Fall Session: September 30th to December 16th
Winter Session: January 6th to March 3rd
Spring Session: March 24th to June 16th

Where will the program occur?
Our location at 1805 Gaspe Ave., and the surrounding green space around the neighbourhood. They normally walk offsite to explore the natural environment.

What measures are being taken for Covid-19?
This is an outdoor program, so risk is reduced. Students can choose whether or not they wear a mask and we ask that choice be respected. Additional measures will be taken to ensure routine hygiene and sanitization practices are in place.

Registration Online