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Project Learning Tree Canada (PLT Canada) and the YMCA know that getting kids outside breathes new life into environmental education. As part of a YMCA science-theme week this past summer, PLT Canada was invited to work with children at three summer camps in Ottawa. “At the Y, we want to put environmental learning front and centre to really engage kids on the issues that matter, like conservation and climate change. PLT Canada’s instructors are experts at getting kids outside and…

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By Ellen Long, Director, Education and Forest Literacy, SFI Growing up, I always admired the profound impact teachers have on shaping future generations. I was raised in a family of educators and always thought I was destined to be a teacher, but I instead found other ways to engage with the education system outside of the classroom. Early on I realized my calling was to support the educators guiding students toward becoming their best selves.   Today, as the Director of…

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By Paul Robitaille, Senior Advisor, Indigenous Relations At the end of September, Canada commemorates Truth and Reconciliation Week 2024, culminating in the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day on September 30. Orange Shirt Day is an initiative started by residential school survivor Phyllis Webstad, Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) from the Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation, to raise awareness of residential schools and spread the message that every child matters. It’s estimated that over 150,000 Indigenous children were taken…

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What do trees, bugs, and animals have in common? STEAM! Yes, you read that correctly. But we’re not talking about the scalding hot kind of steam. We’re talking Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Plus, Language Arts and Social Studies! Nature allows learners from early childhood to young adults to better understand theoretical concepts in the form of real-life scenarios. We’ve compiled a list of some fun hands-on activities and lessons to do with learners of every age. For Early…

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By James Thordarson, Senior Coordinator, Forest Education, SFI In the face of growing labour shortages in Ontario’s forest sector, the province is stepping up to inspire and develop its workforce. A key technological aspect of this is a heavy equipment simulator that provides an engaging, hands-on way for Ontario youth to explore diverse career opportunities in forestry. “The simulator is designed to give students a real sense of what operating forestry equipment is like. It’s not just about learning how…

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