NURTURING HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT IN OUTDOOR PEDAGOGICAL PRACTICE

Relationships serve as the cornerstone for fostering well-being in children and communities. Students explore the dimensions of meaningful connections, including community building, environmental kinship and stewardship, historical understanding, and spiritual appreciation of the earth. Rooted in the principle of Meaningful Connections from the Canadian Centre for Outdoor Play's National Framework, students embrace the interconnectedness of children, educators, families, and the natural world. Through collaboration, students emerge as catalysts for change, empowering children to forge connections with their surroundings and nurturing respect for the earth. Through exploration, students develop the skills and mindset necessary to create enriching outdoor experiences. Students are encouraged to engage through a culturally responsive lens, honouring Indigenous knowledge and embracing anti-colonial and anti-racist practices. Students engage in reflective practice, collaboration, and experiential learning activities to deepen their understanding of meaningful connections.