This winter we’ve been busy working on a new teacher resource for the Cumberland Forest to support K-9 teachers and students at Cumberland Community School and all our educational partners and friends who inspire learning and discovery in the forests, creeks, wetlands surrounding our community.
Designed as an inquiry unit, this resource aims to encourage curiosity and wonder, to connect kids more deeply to the land, and to learn about how to be strong stewards of all natural spaces. The resource is guided by the belief that understanding that we are all part of the greater whole is good for kids, and for the planet!
Getting students out of the classroom and into the forest both activates their creative spark and helps to build a sold science foundation. When we’re in the forest we can access vivid, tactile, visual, aural, and personal memories and experiences that help us to understanding the ecological systems around us.
Time in nature is not leisure time; it is an essential investment in our children’s health, our own health, and the health of our planet. The resource includes history and orientation to the landscape, ecosystems, species at risk, water and watersheds, wetlands, Leave No Trace principles, and citizen science.
Together we are creating a legacy of collaboration, celebration and learning through the exploration
and protection of the natural spaces that surround our community.
CLICK HERE for a link to the new guide.
- Activities are labelled by age group (primary, intermediate and middle school students). Many are
appropriate for all ages with modifications. - Activities are also organized to include: Being prepared: health and safety; Before you go: launching an inquiry; In the forest; and Tools for reflection and continued learning.
- A tree kit, containing field guides, plant identification books and more, is available from the Cumberland Community School Library to support students during their explorations.
- BC Government curriculum connections are included, and there are links to maps and other supplementary
resources in the appendices. - Teachers – be sure to visit the following link for outdoor risk assessment templates prior to organizing your time outside: http://learn71.ca/environmental-outdoor-learning-eol/forms-policy
The CCFS has provided funding and project leadership. The materials were developed by Christina (Tina) Willard-Stepan, Educator and Facilitator, and Meaghan Cursons, Executive Director of the CCFS.