Nature Connect

NATURE CONNECT
Fridays at Polaris.

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 an 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 participates in the Nature Connect program at Polaris?
Nature Connect is for all students currently at Polaris in grades 1-8*. It is a perfect complement to the Waldorf-inspired curriculum offered. The emphasis will be on creating a class community that connects through a love and respect for nature.

Grade 1 will begin the day with Nature Connect and then return to their regular schedule. Grades 2 to 5 will alternate weekly with Nature Connect starting after main lesson throughout the school year.

*Note that currently Polaris only goes up to Grade 5. At this time we are unable to accommodate external registration but it is our plan to do so in the near future as the program expands.

Where will the Nature Connect program take place?
The program will be anchored at Polaris School and Centre. 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 educator Cole McLaughlin. He has been working as outdoor educator for various years and he is excited to be involved in this unique initiative at Polaris, bringing his 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 humour.

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