Frequently asked questions.
Q: What is Forest School?
A: Forest School is an innovative approach to education that leverages the natural environment to foster children's learning and development. By immersing children in nature, Forest School encourages exploration, discovery, and hands-on learning. Key Principles
Nature-Based Learning: Forest School programs are designed to utilize the natural environment as a teaching tool.
Child-Led Exploration: Children are encouraged to explore and discover the natural world at their own pace.
Hands-On Learning: Forest School emphasizes experiential learning, where children learn through direct experience and experimentation.
Fostering Curiosity: Forest School aims to cultivate children's curiosity, creativity, and love of learning.
Q: How do you ensure child safety in the forest?
A: We have trained staff, conduct daily/monthly/yearly risk assessments, and follow strict safety protocols. Please see our parent manual for more information on our policies and plans put in place.
Q: How do you support children's learning and development?
A: At Little Wise Owls, we support children's learning and development through a unique approach inspired by Coyote Mentoring.
Key Strategies
Observation and Adaptation: We observe children's interests and adapt our approach to meet their needs.
Play-Based Learning: We use play as a primary vehicle for learning, encouraging children to explore, discover, and create.
Nature-Based Education: Our outdoor setting provides opportunities for children to connect with nature, promoting curiosity, wonder, and awe.
Mentorship: Our educators act as mentors, guiding children through experiences and encouraging them to take risks, ask questions, and seek answers.
Q: How will I be informed about my child's progress?
A: I am available to have a chat about any questions or concerns you may have. We also provide regular progress updates, and our educators are available to discuss your child's development. We have a private invite-only Facebook page. Text messages are also sent for children who do not have photo permission.
Q: Do you have plans for inclement weather?
A: Yes, we have contingency plans for rain, snow, or extreme heat. Please check our Little Wise Owls Outdoor Learning Parent Manual for more details on class cancellations or moving to a different location.
Q: What if my child has a medical condition or allergy?
A: We work with parents to develop individualized plans for children with medical conditions or allergies. Please contact Mandy (604)845-8527 for a more detailed information chat about any questions or concerns regarding this.
Q: How do you handle hygiene ,toileting and sanitation in the forest?
A: We follow strict hygiene protocols, including handwashing and proper waste disposal. Please see our Parent manual for our policies and plans that we have in place for this.
Q: What qualifications do your educators have?
A: Yes! All our educators are highly qualified and possess all the training and certification required to ensure your child's safety and educational needs are met. Our educators have certifications in early childhood education, responsible adult course (aims to equip educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to create a safe and nurturing environment for children), wilderness first aid experience, CPR, and basic first aid. Mandy Liable is a Canadian Forest and Nature Alliance forest practitioner certified. All staff/volunteers have a Criminal Record Check as well.
Q: How will I be informed about my child's progress?
A: I am available to have a chat about any questions or concerns you may have. We also provide regular progress updates, and our educators are available to discuss your child's development. We have a private invite-only Facebook page. Text messages are also sent for children who do not have photo permission.
Q: How do you ensure staff are prepared for emergencies?
A: Our staff undergo regular training, including first aid and emergency response. Please see our parent manual for more details on our plans and policies put in place.