At Jemasen Early Explorers, outdoor exploration is an intentional and meaningful part of our daily program. Our nature-based outdoor learning supports children’s physical health, emotional well-being, curiosity, and confidence through safe, supervised, and developmentally appropriate outdoor experiences.
Ottawa’s natural environment provides rich opportunities for children to explore, move, observe, and engage with the world around them. Outdoor learning is thoughtfully planned and integrated into our daily routine to support children’s overall development.
Our outdoor exploration program provides daily outdoor learning opportunities that are structured, safe, and responsive to children’s interests. Experiences are designed to support exploration, inquiry, and hands-on discovery while maintaining consistent supervision and clear routines.
Outdoor learning takes place in accordance with licensing requirements and reflects best practices for health, safety, and child development.
Outdoor exploration is learning that occurs outdoors through play, movement, observation, and interaction with nature. Children explore natural elements such as soil, plants, insects, weather, light, and space in ways that are meaningful to them.
Outdoor exploration includes:
Children are supported by educators who observe, guide, and extend learning based on each child’s interests and developmental needs.
Our outdoor program is guided by Ontario’s early years pedagogy, How Does Learning Happen?, and reflects the foundations of:
We view nature as an extension of the learning environment and support children as capable, curious, and active learners.
Outdoor learning supports all areas of development, including:
Regular outdoor experiences promote healthy development and support children’s natural curiosity.
Children engage in a variety of outdoor experiences that change with the seasons and reflect their interests.
Children are encouraged to explore at their own pace. Educators observe children’s interests and extend learning through thoughtful questions, materials, and experiences.
Outdoor experiences may include:
All activities are supervised and planned with safety and developmental appropriateness in mind.
Children participate in age-appropriate adventure play that supports physical development and confidence, including climbing, balancing, running, and navigating natural obstacles.
Children experience nature through all senses—touching natural textures, listening to outdoor sounds, observing light and shadow, and engaging with changing weather conditions.
Outdoor learning encourages cooperation, communication, and shared problem-solving. Children work together during group activities and games, developing patience, teamwork, and respect for others.
Outdoor experiences are part of our daily schedule and provide both structure and flexibility. A typical outdoor routine may include:
Routines are predictable to support children’s sense of security.
Our approach is responsive and intentional. Educators:
Children learn best when they feel safe, supported, and engaged.
Health and safety are central to all outdoor experiences. Our outdoor program includes:
Children are supported in taking appropriate risks while maintaining a safe environment.
Through outdoor exploration, children develop:
Outdoor learning supports children in becoming capable and confident learners.
Families choose Jemasen Early Explorers because we offer:
Outdoor learning is available through:
Outdoor exploration is integrated into our daily program.
Yes. Toddlers and preschoolers are supervised at all times. Educators follow routines, safety checks, and age-appropriate activities.
Yes. Part-time toddlers and preschoolers participate in outdoor learning just like full-time children, subject to availability.
Yes. Outdoor learning continues year-round with adaptations for cold or snowy conditions.
This program is for toddlers and preschool-age children with age-appropriate outdoor activities.
Dress children for the weather with sturdy shoes, hats, rain gear, or warm layers. Proper clothing keeps them safe and comfortable.
Toddlers and preschoolers spend time outdoors daily. Duration varies depending on weather, safety, and individual needs.
Light rain is fine with proper clothing. Heavy rain or unsafe conditions lead to indoor or modified activities.
Give your child the opportunity to learn, grow, and explore through nature.
Contact Jemasen Early Explorers to learn more about our Outdoor Exploration Program or to schedule a visit.
