Parent Handbook Snails and Trails Nature Program
Philosophy: Nature’s Playground
Our philosophy with the Snails and Trails nature program (summer day camp) is to foster a
deep love and respect for the natural world through immersive experiences. We believe children
learn best through play, exploration, and discovery in an outdoor environment. Our program
prioritizes both child-led exploration and guided activities, creating a safe space for curiosity,
risk-taking, and wonder.
Core Values:
● Play-Based Learning: We believe play is the foundation for all learning. We provide
opportunities for open-ended, creative play that allows children to explore their interests,
develop problem-solving skills, and build confidence.
● Risky Play: We acknowledge the importance of safe, supervised risky play in a
controlled environment. This allows children to challenge themselves, build resilience,
and learn about their capabilities.
● Stewardship and Sustainability: We instill a sense of environmental responsibility by
fostering respect for all living things and engaging in sustainable practices during the
camp.
● Community Building: We value collaboration and connection with nature and each
other. We create a supportive community where children feel safe to share, learn from
each other, and build lasting friendships.
Curriculum Plan:
Weekly Themes:
● Wonders of Water: Explore different water habitats, conduct mini-experiments, build
water purifiers (primitive filters), engage in storytelling around water myths.
● Creatures of the Camp: Learn about local wildlife through observation, tracking,
creating animal homes (bird feeders, bug hotels).
● Nature’s Architects: Learn about different types of shelters and explore building
techniques using natural materials (forts, lean-tos).
● Wild Tools and Crafts: Learn basic tool crafting skills (whittling, fire making with adult
supervision) and create nature-inspired eco-art (weaving, leaf pressing, flower pounding,
paper making etc)
Daily Activities (Flexible Schedule):
● Morning Gathering: Start with a circle time to discuss the day’s plan, share
observations, and sing nature songs.
● Exploration Time: Provide ample unstructured time for free play in nature, allowing
children to explore, build, climb, and connect with their surroundings.
● Guided Activities: Each day will include a guided activity aligned with the weekly
theme. This could involve nature walks, science projects, creative nature journaling,
storytelling workshops and eco art to interpret what we see and learn.
● Risky Play Time: Set aside designated time for safe, supervised risky play activities like
climbing logs, building precarious towers, or balancing games.
● Afternoon Reflection: End the day with a group reflection, sharing experiences, and
discussing what they learned.
Emergent Learning:
Our curriculum allows for flexibility and adaptation to the children’s interests. We use the
“teachable moment” approach to integrate learning opportunities based on their observations,
questions, and discoveries throughout the day.
Teacher Roles:
Our teachers, with their combined experience in ECE, First Aid, Wild Wisdom training, forest
school supervision, and forest practitioner certification, will act as facilitators and guides. They
will:
● Ensure a safe and supportive environment for exploration.
● Offer guidance and instruction during activities.
● Answer questions and encourage curiosity.
● Document children’s learning and development.
● Model responsible and respectful behavior towards nature.
We believe this nature program summer camp, with its philosophy grounded in play and
exploration, will create a magical space for children to connect with nature, grow their skills, and
build lasting memories and friendships.
Policy and Procedures: Snails and Trails Nature Program
Welcome! We are thrilled your child will be joining us for an exciting summer of exploration and
discovery in the natural world. This document outlines our policies and procedures to ensure a
safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Registration and Forms:
● A completed registration form and signed liability waiver are required for each child
before attending camp.
● The liability waiver acknowledges the inherent risks associated with outdoor activities
and risky play experiences.
Camp Schedule and Drop-off/Pick-up:
● Camp operates from 9:00am to 3:00pm daily during the scheduled camp weeks.
● Parents/Guardians/Caregivers are responsible for dropping off and picking up their
children on time at the designated location.
● Please inform staff of any late pick-up arrangements in advance.
● Ms Becky (604) 619 – 8758 or Ms Charlotte
Camp Attire and Personal Belongings:
● Children should wear sturdy closed-toe shoes suitable for outdoor play.
● Dress according to the weather forecast.
● We recommend applying sunscreen and insect repellent before arrival (check with the
camp regarding any restrictions on ingredients).
● Label all personal belongings with your child’s name.
● The camp is not responsible for lost or damaged items.
Lunch and Snacks:
● Please pack a healthy, nut-free lunch and reusable water bottle for your child each day.
● Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies your child may have.
Health and Medication:
● Please inform us of any existing medical conditions or allergies your child may have.
● All medication must be provided in its original container with clear dosage instructions.
● A designated staff member will be responsible for administering medication.
Communication:
● We maintain open communication with parents. Daily updates and important information
will be shared through [communication method, e.g., email, text].
● Feel free to contact the camp director at 604 619 8758 or
beckysnailsandtrails@gmail.com with any questions or concerns.
Safety and Supervision:
● Our camp prioritizes safety.
● Our experienced staff members are all certified in First Aid and CPR.
● A high staff-to-camper ratio ensures close supervision throughout the day.
● Risky play activities are conducted in a controlled environment with proper safety
measures in place.
Respectful Environment:
● We foster a respectful and inclusive environment for all participants.
● This includes respecting teachers, fellow campers, and the natural world around us.
● Bullying or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.
Liability and Risk Acknowledgement:
● By registering your child for the camp, you acknowledge the inherent risks associated
with outdoor activities and risky play experiences.
● Our staff will take all reasonable precautions to ensure safety, but accidents can happen.
● The signed liability waiver acknowledges these risks and releases the camp from liability
in the event of an accident.
We look forward to a fantastic summer of exploration and learning with your child!