The Cridge Nature Preschool

Victoria’s first all-outdoors nature preschool is coming to The Cridge Childcare Centre. 

“Let nature be your teacher”  William Wordsworth

This September will find eight adventurous four and five year olds, in the company of their early childhood educator and a support adult, exploring nature as it occurs in and around our city. Following the changing seasons in our Garry Oak meadow, watching the water move the rocks at Gonzalez Beach, and finding wildlife within city parks and greenspaces will all be an everyday part of this special curriculum.

Nature education is not simply about being outdoors – it provides children with an opportunity to interact with nature in a way that few urban children experience. With a belief that “there’s no bad weather, there’s only bad clothing,” the intrepid children and their leaders will sally forth as urban explorers to learn the special lessons of nature. Studies show that children who experience nature develop important critical thinking, team work, self-awareness, independence, agility, self management and risk taking skills.

The Cridge Nature Preschool featured on Shaw GO! Island

Planned for Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings, The Cridge Nature Preschool will offer slightly extended hours in order to accommodate travel times, and – as with all Cridge Childcare Programs – will be inclusive of children with special needs. If you would like more information about The Cridge Nature Preschool, please email Paula West-Patrick or call (250) 995-6416.

Applications for September 2013 intake can be downloaded here..

The Cridge Nature Preschool featured on CHEK News Vital People.