Bayview Nature Program
At Jericho Beach Park
The Oak Tree
Each week we meet, at Jericho Beach, (the end of Point Grey Rd) at the awesome Oak tree. Here the children learn to build shelters, tie knots, climb, explore and play in natures natural playground which provides a setting for natural play in the invigorating fresh air. Children are delighted to sing nature songs, create eco art and learn about the vegetation and animals that surround them. Rain or shine, we dress for all weather.
Children wear muddy buddies or rain pants and rain boots. Extra sweater and socks come with them as well as a snack and water. Parents will drop off their child and pick them at the Oak tree at the end of Point Grey Rd beside the parking lot by the concession stand.
Research has shown that a child’s sense of creativity, confidence, independence and tolerance thrives naturally in an outdoor setting. Free, non-associated play differs from what children do indoors. This type of free play has been found to develop children’s motor skills and allows them to make decisions and solve problems, thanks to the more variable and less-structures outdoor environment.
Children bond over shared experiences such as finding slugs and worms or checking out the many homes and habitats of the local animals, bugs and various birds.
Advanced Outdoor Nature Program
We are thrilled to continue our Advanced Outdoor Nature Program for children in Kindergarten through Grade 2 (ages 5 to 7)! This exciting initiative allows children to immerse themselves in nature through activities like woodland play, woodwork, shelter building, and gardening. Participants can be picked up from their classroom at Bayview Elementary and walked to Jericho, or families can meet the group at the Oak Tree at 12:30 pm. Join us for an adventurous and enriching outdoor experience!
Please note: This program is not an extension of the elementary school curriculum. Families should be aware that children will miss regular school activities in the afternoon. We recommend discussing this decision with your child’s elementary teacher and maintaining an ongoing conversation to ensure they do not fall behind. We look forward to providing your child with a memorable and enriching outdoor adventure. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity for hands-on learning and exploration in nature!
Combined Bayview Community Preschool and Bayview Nature Program
We also offer an option to enrol in a combination of the Bayview Nature Program and the (Indoor) Bayview Community Preschool located at Bayview Elementary School. We recommend children attend a combination of Bayview Community Preschool and Bayview Nature Program as our highly skilled teachers work in both, providing continuity which is so important for young children’s social, emotional, cognitive and physical development.
We have also noticed as this year progresses many of our current families are requesting that their child attend both programs and we have limited spaces to offer, so to avoid disappointment we recommend that you enrol your child in a combined option at the start. Our Enrolment Form gives more details on the options available.
