EcoExplorers: Outdoor Learning Adventures for Homeschoolers at Abbey Gardens
- Abbey Gardens
- Apr 22
- 3 min read
Homeschooling offers a unique chance to tailor education to your child's individual needs and interests. However, many parents seek ways to enhance their children's outdoor learning experiences. Thankfully, the EcoExplorers program at Abbey Gardens presents an exciting and educational avenue for homeschoolers. Through hands-on experiences and farm-to-table principles, EcoExplorers invites children to explore, learn, and engage with nature in a vibrant setting.
What is EcoExplorers?
Launched in 2013, the EcoExplorers program invites children aged 6 to 11 to immerse themselves in nature. This hands-on learning experience, set in the picturesque Abbey Gardens, focuses on ecological principles, gardening, and sustainability practices. The program sessions align seamlessly with homeschooling curricula, meeting once a week on Wednesdays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM during the spring, fall, and winter.
Seasonal Program Details
The EcoExplorers program’s seasonal structure offers diverse and engaging learning experiences, tailored to the changing environment. Here’s a closer look at each season:
Winter Sessions: For four weeks from January 22 to February 12, children explore winter ecology. They might track wildlife in snow, discover how plants and animals adapt to cold temperatures, and create winter-themed crafts.
Spring Sessions: Running for seven weeks from May 7 to June 18, spring offers lessons on planting seeds, observing plant growth, and understanding the vital role of pollinators. For instance, children will learn how honeybees contribute to one-third of our food supply by pollinating crops.
Fall Sessions: Over seven weeks from September 24 to November 5, fall activities focus on seasonal changes. Children will harvest crops, learn why composting is crucial, and prepare gardens for winter. Understanding that composting can reduce waste by up to 30% in landfills helps instill eco-friendly practices.
Engaging Activities
The EcoExplorers program is rich with interactive activities that keep children interested and eager to learn. Each session features various experiences, from guided nature walks and scavenger hunts to hands-on gardening projects and sustainability experiments.
Children are encouraged to ask questions, explore their surroundings, and partake in group discussions. This setting not only deepens their understanding of ecological concepts but also helps improve their social skills. They forge connections with fellow homeschoolers, sharing experiences and learning from one another.
Importance of Outdoor Learning
Research consistently highlights the positive effects of outdoor learning on children's physical and mental well-being. Nature-based programs can boost creativity, enhance problem-solving abilities, and encourage active participation in subjects like science and environmental studies. According to a study, students engaged in outdoor classrooms scored 27% higher in science tests compared to their indoor counterparts.
The EcoExplorers program harnesses these benefits, creating a vibrant atmosphere for exploration and learning. It nurtures an appreciation for nature, inspiring children to become stewards of the environment and develop sustainable habits that last a lifetime.
Registration and Cost
Enrolling your child in the EcoExplorers program is straightforward. The cost is just $35 per child for each session, making it an affordable way to enhance your homeschooling journey with outdoor learning. Due to its rising popularity, some sessions may fill up quickly. It’s wise to register early to secure your child's place.
If a specific session isn't showing availability, you can email irene@abbeygardens.ca to join the waitlist for future openings.
Community and Connectivity
A vital aspect of homeschooling is ensuring children have opportunities to socialize and build friendships. EcoExplorers strengthens this community by connecting like-minded families. Parents can engage on-site, fostering networking, support, and shared learning experiences.
Creating these connections enhances the overall experience, making learning not just about academics but about building relationships and supportive environments.
Enrich Your Child's Learning Journey
The EcoExplorers program at Abbey Gardens stands out as a fantastic way to complement your homeschooling experience. With a focus on nature, sustainability, and hands-on activities, this initiative promotes academic knowledge alongside social engagement and a love for the environment.
Encouraging your children to participate in EcoExplorers not only enriches their education but also fosters friendships and a deeper connection to the world around them. Register your child today and watch them flourish in the great outdoors!
