What make these programs different?

Our programs are creatively designed to deepen a sense of wonder and curiosity within each child through interacting with the land. We use specific core routines that uniquely contribute to an overall sense of community and meaning for each learner over time. We aim to inspire confidence, resilience and community by interacting with the natural world.

Depending on the program, participants may be involved in any of the follow activities:
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  • natural shelter building techniques
  • sit spots & nature journalling
  • sneaking quietly in the woods
  • wild crafting (gathering, twining & weaving, plant pressing)
  • mammal, bird and wildlife tracking
  • Yukon wild edible and medicinal plants
  • ecological games & songs
  • macro sketching and botanical drawings
  • forest, invertebrate, and soil studies
  • exploratory play
  • sensory awareness training
  • team-building challenges
  • storytelling and active listening
  • bird behaviour and bird language
  • creative land mapping

What does my child need to bring with them?
Participants should come dressed and prepared for the weather every day!

We run programs all year-round, including in cold winter temperatures. While we have an indoor facility to use in case of extreme weather conditions (below -30 including wind chill), the plan is to be out and about as much as possible. We aim to accomplish this by making sure that everyone has the right gear to remain warm, dry, and happy. Below is a general list of what youngsters should have packed for our full-day programs.

WINTER GEAR LIST
  • a backpack
  • warm winter jacket & snow pants OR full snowsuit
  • warm, non-cotton winter hat
  • insulated/water-resistant winter boots
  • 2 pairs warm, non-cotton socks
  • non-cotton scarf/buff/balaclava/etc.
  • 2 pairs of warm mittens
  • 1 full, reusable water bottle with a secure lid
  • 1 full thermos with a hot beverage
  • 1 large, healthy nut-free lunch + lots of snacks
  • any required medications
  • a headlamp (optional)
SUMMER GEAR LIST
  • a backpack
  • rain jacket & rain pants
  • a sweater
  • hat with a brim
  • 2 pairs of socks
  • full shoes/hikers (no sandals please)
  • 1-2 full, reusable water bottle(s) with a secure lid
  • 1 large, healthy nut-free lunch + lots of snacks
  • any required medications
  • sunscreen
SPRING & FALL GEAR LIST
  • a backpack
  • warm  jacket & pants (depending on weather)
  • warm, non-cotton winter hat
  • insulated/water-resistant boots OR full shoes/hikers
  • 2 pairs warm, non-cotton socks
  • non-cotton scarf/buff/balaclava/etc.
  • 2 pairs of warm mittens
  • 1 full, reusable water bottle with a secure lid
  • 1 full thermos with a hot beverage (optional)
  • 1 large, healthy nut-free lunch + lots of snacks
  • any required medications

​How long/difficult are the hikes you go on with the children? How active are the programs?
We are outside for significant portions of our programs, but it not like a sports camp where we are taking part in high-intensity physical activities all day. Throughout the day there are games and activities that require running, hills that require climbing, and backpacks that require carrying. We don’t typically do extended hikes with younger kids.

My child is 4 turning 5 later this year, can she/he join the program for children ages 5-6?
As much as we’d like to include everyone in every program, we will be sticking to our age ranges so that we can plan great tailored programs, and also leave space for parents with kids in that age range to access the programs. We are continuing to expand and experiment with different programs for different ages, so join our mailing list at www.riverstoridges.org and stay tuned!

What if my child can’t participate in one of the scheduled activities?
Please let us know at least one day in advance if your child is unable to participate in one or more of the planned activities of the program.

I have to pick up my child early. Where will I find you?
We may be back in the forest around Hidden Lakes, on a hike with an Elder, or on the water canoeing, so please let us know at least one day in advance so that we can make a plan for you and your child. 

What if I don’t have access to the best outdoor gear for my child?
If you’re unable to get the gear your child will need for program, please let us know. We may be able to lend certain items out for them to use during program. Contact us as soon as you can if this is a barrier for you.