Welcome to our “Campfire Notes”, a collection of reflections of our program and Outdoor Education in general. Click on the posts below for more details!
At FSFNS we have 3 simple guiding commitments that help forge our program: connection with self, connection with others and connection with nature. We find things go smoothly when we are connected to all these things. And under the umbrella of nature connection (and likely self and others, too) we’d like to take a deep …
“You smell like campfire” is something we often hear after a day at FNS. And more often than not, it seems to be said in longing, nostalgic way. Usually it’s followed by “I love that smell” and when we are really lucky, complete strangers will dive into fond memories of childhood or a specific moment …
Hey Folks, Metcalfe Rock is, and has been, an important place to Free Spirit for many years. For those of you who have never been, it’s totally worth the trip! Metcalfe is part of the Kolopore Uplands with trails that run in and among the Niagara Escarpment. In our humble opinion, it’s a magical place …
At Free Spirit Forest Nature School we have the opportunity to spend time with your children as they explore the natural world around them each day. It’s truly amazing to see where and how they take new opportunities. In fact, play is arguably the most important part of our Forest and Nature School and the …
Read more “Play-based Education: the joy of shared adventures.”
“Teaching a child not to step on a caterpillar is as valuable to the child as it is to the caterpillar” – Bradley Miller A lot of our focus here at FNS is on environmental education and awareness where we strive to create not only a respect for nature, but a love and sense of …
Given our quick switch to cold temperatures and snow last Friday, we thought it’d be a good time to revisit winter wear. First and foremost we want to recognize the awesome efforts of parents and guardians last week to ensure your children were dressed properly to enjoy the wonderful Winter-esque day! It’s because of your …
Read more “The Joy of Winter Exploring (or “Layers, layers!”)”
For children, outdoor play is a basic need and inherent to play is the necessity of risk. Risky play takes many different shapes, but always involves pushing limits and comfort zones in a thrilling and exciting way. It’s about testing oneself – and finding out what happens. During risky play, children not only experience an …