Raising Wild Hearts and Earth Stewards

We don’t teach about nature — we learn with it.

Programs

What we do

  • Children explore the powerful journey of salmon — from egg to ocean and back — and learn how salmon nourish both the forest and community. We honor the salmon as a key teacher in coastal ecosystems.

  • We create using natural and found materials: stone, bark, clay, cones, and twigs. Crafts reflect the seasons, stories, and place — inspired by Indigenous ways of making with the land.

  • Using simple tools and observation, kids learn to name local plants and birds. We highlight which plants are safe, edible, or traditionally used by Indigenous peoples, fostering respect for the natural world.

  • We build confidence through age-appropriate outdoor skills — like shelter building, knots, and respectful knife use — always rooted in safety, teamwork, and Leave No Trace principles.

  • Story is at the heart of connection. We share Indigenous legends, nature tales, and children’s own experiences to deepen empathy, imagination, and a sense of belonging.

  • Children learn how all things are connected — land, water, people, and more-than-human beings. We nurture curiosity and care, raising future protectors of the earth through respectful exploration and ecological awareness.

When children grow up knowing the names of trees, the rhythm of salmon, and the taste of rain, they grow into adults who protect what they love.

 FAQs

  • A forest school is an outdoor learning program where children explore, play, and learn in nature — rain or shine! Instead of desks and walls, we use the forest, creeks, and seasons as our classroom.

  • Our programs are designed for children in Kindergarten to Grade 3. Some special events and workshops are open to mixed-age groups or families.

  • Children should dress for the weather! We recommend:

    • Waterproof boots and rain gear

    • Layers for warmth

    • A small backpack with:

      • Water bottle

      • Nut-free snack/lunch

      • Extra socks/clothes

    We’ll send a full gear checklist before each program.

  • We go outside in all weather, unless conditions are unsafe (high winds, extreme cold, wildfire smoke). Nature is a teacher in every season — puddles and snow are part of the fun!

  • Only in rare cases for safety. If so, we’ll notify families by email or text and offer a make-up day when possible.

  • We currently operate in:

    • Port Moody (Mossom Creek Hatchery)

    • North Vancouver (Boundary Elementary School Nature Club)

    • West Vancouver (Collingwood Nature Club)

    Each location has access to forests, creeks, and nearby facilities like washrooms.

  • Salmon Forest is led by Simona, a certified Forest and Nature School educator and special education assistant, with years of experience in outdoor learning and child development. Occasionally, trained helpers or volunteers may support the sessions.

  • Yes. We follow strict risk assessment practices, keep small group sizes, and foster careful, supported risk-taking. Children learn how to be safe and respectful in nature.

  • We understand life happens. Refund policies vary by program, and we’ll always try to accommodate rescheduling if possible. Details are included during registration.