A 5 week immersive nature program focused on outdoor learning, play and place making. The program is perfect children being home schooled or families who wish to provide their children with an opportunity to build a connection to local landscape and community outside of the classroom. The program is for children ages 6 to 12.

Join other home schoolers in nature discovery at Shade’s Mills Conservation Area. Utilizing a nature play inspired approach Forest Fridays support children in experiential learning. Through observing nature, making art, following their curiosity, children will learn from each other as well as the guide. Activities include Outdoor Safety, Games, Crafts, Animal Tracking, Fire making, Storytelling, Music and Drama, Nature Awareness, Wilderness Living Skills, Leadership and Team-work. Through hands on activities we strive to nurture a sense of wonder, respect for each other and the natural world.

This program takes place entirely outdoors exploring the fields and forests of Shade’s' Mills. Our classroom is the earth, the trees, the rivers and the fields. We lead by the explorer’s natural curiosity and expand on the interest. We meet outside and stay outside, rain or shine, hot or cold, becoming aware of what we need to wear and prepare for to be outdoors and enjoy our experiences.

This 5 week program is offered every Friday from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. starting November 23rd and ending on December 21st. The Home School Program costs $65 per child for those with a Grand River Parks membership, or $90 per child for non-members. (The non-member price includes park entrance fees on program days). On line registration closes on November 21st. For registration options after that date please email ShadesMillsNC@grandriver.ca

To learn more about the Grand River Parks membership program: https://www.grandriver.ca/en/outdoor-recreation/Park-memberships.aspx