Outdoor Education – Redesigned

Since 1994, the RougeValley Naturalists have developed and continue to implement curriculum-based outdoor education programs for school and community groups. For over 18 years, our staff and volunteers have been running educational programs to much acclaim from educators. Students, teachers and parents have participated in fun-filled activities that promote a better understanding of our wilderness, and of the great natural and cultural heritage preserved in the Rouge Valley.

Our environmental education programs consist of guided hikes to explore the wilderness. They are complemented with interactive lessons and hands-on activities to provide a truly ‘Wild’ educational experience!

A program day includes a hands-on or interactive program of various themes to suit all grade level curriculums.

Programs

JK/SK - Needs and Characteristics of Living Things (JK/SK) | Modified Program
Grade 1 – Needs and Characteristics of Living Things
Grade 2 – Growth and Changes in Animals | Air and Water in the Environment
Grade 3 – Growth and Changes in Plants | Soils in the Environment
Grade 4 – Habitats and Wildlife communities | Rocks and Minerals
Grade 5 – Properties of and Changes in Matter | Conservation of Energy and Resources
Grade 6 – Biodiversity | First Nation Peoples in the Rouge Valley
Grade 7 – Interactions in the Environment | Heat in the Environment
Grade 8 – Patterns in Human Geography | Water Systems
College/University – Modified Program

Modified Programs

We are open to suggestions and modifications to improve and tailor our programs to educator needs. Many educators request a combination of program topics or a specific program schedule. If you would like more information on requesting a modified program, please feel free to contact us.

Program Schedule

Our programs are generally 3.5 hours in length (10:00 AM – 1:30 PM). If the weather permits, a litterless lunch by the river is an ideal choice. The program schedule can be modified upon request.

Volunteer

Imagine yourself as a Rouge Valley Naturalists Volunteer! Join our team and share the fulfillment of bringing nature to urban children and youth. If you have an enthusiasm for nature and love to inspire children and youth about the wonders of the wilderness, then we may have just the volunteering opportunity for you!

We need enthusiastic and outgoing volunteers to deliver our outdoor environmental education programs. No experience necessary. We will provide the training. All we ask of our volunteers is they be energetic, outgoing, have good communication skills and most importantly a willingness to learn, work in a team setting – and hike! Most of our programs are held weekday mornings and afternoons, however there may be opportunities for evening and weekend programming as well. Continue Reading →

Our hike leaders are First Aid & CPR trained and certified. Safety first. Always. From allergic reactions to severe weather conditions, our hike leaders and staff are trained accordingly.