Parkland School Division's Nature Kindergarten program is currently based out of Muir Lake School, where children from all over Parkland School Division are offered a unique curriculum-based authentic learning experience primarily within a dedicated woodland classroom and the surrounding outdoor area. This optional kindergarten program-of-choice gets children active and in touch with nature, while essentially extending a child's kindergarten experience from half-time to full-time in the process.
In keeping with our Ultimate Goal of Student Success and Well-being, PSD's Nature Kindergarten program provides meaningful student engagement while addressing the kindergarten curriculum, as children spend the majority of their day outside connecting with local habitats as inspiration for their academic learning. Nature Kindergarten nurtures independent, confident and resilient learners with a zeal for problem solving, fostering children's physical literacy and lifelong health and well-being through outdoor adventures that contribute to the social and emotional assets of individual health.
Apply to Register
Please note: Your child must first be registered for a recognized Alberta Kindergarten program (such as Parkland School Division's regular Kindergarten program) before they can be registered in the Nature-Based Kindergarten program. Complete information on the registration process can be found on our Registration page. While priority shall be given to Parkland School Division students, out-of-division applicants may be considered if space and resources are available.
2022-2023 Registration
To apply to the 2022-2023 Nature Kindergarten Program, please complete and submit all material in the 2022-2023 Nature Kindergarten Application Package. The application form in this package will begin accepting submissions when Parkland School Division 2022-2023 Registration opens on February 14, 2022.
2021-2022 Registration
To apply to the 2021-2022 Nature Kindergarten Program, please complete and submit a 2021-2022 Nature Kindergarten Application Form. This form will begin accepting applications when Parkland School Division 2021-2022 Registration opens on February 8, 2021.
2022-2023 Virtual Open Houses
The Nature Kindergarten Program has two upcoming virtual information sessions planned for prospective families.
Session 1 |
Session 2 |
Date: Wednesday, February 9 Time: 6-7pm Location: Online Webinar via Google Meet |
Date: Tuesday, April 12 Time: 4-5pm Location: Online Webinar via Google Meet |
Attendees will join Nature Kindergarten teacher Tracey Gilmour as she presents:
- A full overview of the Nature Kindergarten program
- How a typical Nature Kindergarten student spends their day at school
- Answers to frequently-asked Nature Kindergarten questions
Families will be able to see the full scope of the program, ask any questions they may have and evaluate if Nature Kindergarten is a good fit for them and their child(ren).
Program Key Elements
Outdoor Adventures
Certificated Staff
Location
Fees
Transportation: Contractor Documents
Waiting List
For more information contact:
Muir Lake School
Phone: 780-963-3535
Email: muirlake@psd.ca