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Ojibwa edition by Joanne Robertson (Author), Shirley Williams (Translator), Isadore Toulouse (Translator) & 0 more

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Nibi Emosaawdang / The Water Walker: Robertson, Joanne, Williams, Shirley, Toulouse, Isadore: 9781772601008: Books - Amazon.ca

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Make sure you scroll right to see additional columns and up and down to see more resources.

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Let's Go For A Walk Outside | Kids Song | Super Simple Songs

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Engaging Students' Imaginations in Their World

It is becoming increasingly clear that our survival as a species depends on re-imagining our relationship with nature. We need to cultivate ecological understanding - an awareness of our interconnectedness with the natural world based on particular knowledge and emotional connections with the local, natural world. Unfortunately, current approaches to developing students' ecological understanding, what might be described as ecological education, are missing the mark due, among other reasons, to a theoretical and practical neglect of the imagination. What can IEE offer those teachers/administrators/schools interested in cultivating ecological understanding amongst their students?

IEE aims to nurture students' personal relationships with the natural and cultural contexts in which they live through frequent engagement of the body, emotion, and imagination in learning. To achieve this, the possibility for emotional and imaginative engagement offered by the cognitive tools approach as outlined in Kieran Egan's theory of Imaginative Education (IE) is paired with focused attention on engaging the body and context. Unlike IE, however, this approach to education is ecological. Its aim is to engage students in the world around them. Learn about the three guiding principles of IEE.

IEE brings the emotional and imaginative engagement of the child to the center of theory and practice. By designing pedagogy around the distinctive features of students' imaginative lives, IEE can more routinely engage the body, emotion and imagination in the local natural and cultural context in which students live and learn. This is a new approach to ecological education. Because IEE is a cross-curricular approach to teaching suitable for students in elementary through secondary school in urban, sub-urban, or rural contexts, IEE makes it possible for the development of ecological understanding to take place alongside the fulfillment of curricular requirements.

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It is becoming increasingly clear that our survival as a species depends on re-imagining our relationship with nature. We need to cultivate ecological understanding - an awareness of our interconnectedness with the natural world based on particular knowledge and emotional connections with the local, natural world.

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Legal Protection for Ontario’s Reptiles and Amphibians

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Legal Protection for Ontario’s Reptiles and Amphibians

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Ontario's reptiles and amphibians are protected under the federal Species at Risk Act and these provincial acts:

These laws, as well as how they protect species and their habitats, are described below.

1. Canadian Species at Risk Act, 2002 (SARA)
The Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife Canada (COSEWIC) assesses the status of Canada's wildlife species, and makes recommendations to the federal Minister of the Environment as to which species should be placed on Schedule 1 (the list of wildlife species at risk in Canada) of the SARA 2002, and what their status should be. COSEWIC is a group of experts who have considerable expertise in wildlife biology and management, as well as Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge. Its members are federal and provincial government employees, nongovernment scientists and species experts.
A major limitation of this act is that the Minister can choose not to add a species to Schedule 1 for economic or social reasons. As a result, a species that COSEWIC determines to be at risk on the basis of the best available science may not be placed on Schedule 1 and will not receive any legal status or protection.
The SARA 2002 protects individuals of Threatened, Endangered and Extirpated species (even though a species is considered to be extirpated, it might still exist) and, under the act, killing, harming or harassing individuals or removing them from the wild is illegal:
No person shall kill, harm, harass, capture or take an individual of a wildlife species that is listed as an extirpated species, an endangered species or a threatened species. (Section 32[1]) No person shall possess, collect, buy, sell or trade an individual of a wildlife species that is listed as an extirpated species, an endangered species or a threatened species, or any part or derivative of such an individual. (Section 32[2])
The SARA 2002 also protects the "residence" and the critical habitat of Threatened, Endangered and Extirpated Species on federal lands:
No person shall damage or destroy the residence of one or more individuals of a wildlife species that is listed as an endangered species or a threatened species, or that is listed as an extirpated species if a recovery strategy has recommended the reintroduction of the species into the wild in Canada. (Section 33) Subject to this section, no person shall destroy any part of the critical habitat of any listed endangered species or of any listed threatened species - or of any listed extirpated species if a recovery strategy has recommended the reintroduction of the species into the wild in Canada - if (a) the critical habitat is on federal land, in the exclusive economic zone of Canada or on the continental shelf of Canada ... (Section 58[1])
The habitat protection provided under the SARA 2002 applies only to federal lands, which make up a very small proportion of the land area of Ontario. Critical habitat is protected for a Threatened or Endangered species only once it has been identified in a species' recovery strategy.

Penalties for offences under this act can be a fine of up to $1,000,000 for corporations and a fine of up to $250,000 and/or imprisonment for up to five years for an individual.

2. Ontario Endangered Species Act, 2007 (ESA)
This updated act is a significant improvement over the previous Ontario Endangered Species Act in a number of ways. For example, the previous act offered legal protection only to Endangered species, whereas the ESA 2007 also offers legal protection to Threatened species. Additionally, unlike the 2007 act, the previous act provided no habitat protection to listed species.

The Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario (COSSARO) is composed of up to 11 government and nongovernment members with scientific expertise and Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge. The committee has been assessing the status of Ontario's wild species since 1995 and was legally recognized under the ESA 2007. COSSARO makes species assessments using the best available scientific information and Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge. Unlike COSEWIC's recommendations, which the federal Minister of the Environment can refuse for economic or political reasons, species that COSSARO designates as "at risk" are automatically placed on the Species at Risk in Ontario list.

The ESA 2007 protects individuals of Threatened, Endangered and Extirpated species and, under the act, killing, harming or harassing individuals or removing them from the wild is illegal:
No person shall, kill, harm, harass, capture or take a living member of a species that is listed on the Species at Risk in Ontario List as an extirpated, endangered or threatened species. (Section 9[1][a]) No person shall possess, transport, collect, buy, sell, lease, trade or offer to buy, sell, lease or trade, (i) a living or dead member of a species that is listed on the Species at Risk in Ontario List as an extirpated, endangered or threatened species, (ii) any part of a living or dead member of a species referred to in subclause (i), (iii) anything derived from a living or dead member of a species referred to in subclause (i) ... (Section 9[1][b])
This act also protects the habitat of Threatened, Endangered and Extirpated species on all Crown and private land in Ontario:
"No person shall damage or destroy the habitat of a species that is listed on the Species at Risk in Ontario List as an endangered or threatened species; or a species that is listed on the Species at Risk in Ontario List as an extirpated species, if the species is prescribed by the regulations for the purpose of this clause. (Section 10[1][a and b])
The 42 species that were regulated under the previous Ontario endangered species legislation and any species that are newly listed under the ESA 2007 automatically receive general habitat protection. General habitat includes any areas that a species currently depends on, and general habitat protection for a particular species remains in place until regulated habitat is defined for that species in a species-specific habitat regulation. The species-specific habitat regulation provides a more detailed description of the habitat a species uses and is the legal description of that habitat.

Along with the 42 previously regulated species, an additional 86 species were also listed as Endangered or Threatened under the previous Species at Risk in Ontario list, but these species were not regulated and received no legal protection under the old ESA. They are now on the Species at Risk in Ontario list under the ESA 2007, yet they do not automatically receive the general habitat protection and their habitat will not be protected until June 30, 2013 (or earlier if a species-specific habitat regulation is created). It is incongruous that a species identified as Threatened 10 years ago does not receive habitat protection, but a species identified as Threatened after the ESA 2007 came into effect automatically receives habitat protection; from a scientific perspective, both species should be protected. In any case, the result is that the ESA 2007 does not currently protect habitat for many of the species listed as Endangered and Threatened. This is a major flaw in the act's protection of habitat. For example, the eastern massasauga and Blanding's turtle (both listed as Threatened) currently receive no habitat protection under this act.

Another major concern that has been raised about the habitat protection this act provides is that it can be circumvented by permits that allow individuals (such as developers, and representatives of government and other industry) to destroy the habitat of species at risk if "the Minister is of the opinion that the activity will result in a significant social or economic benefit to Ontario." Unfortunately, this means that habitat of species at risk is not truly protected from development, since many large development projects, for example, major highways, could be considered to be "of social or economic benefit to Ontario."

Penalties for first offences under the ESA 2007 can be a fine of up to $1,000,000 for corporations and a fine of up to $250,000 and/or imprisonment for up to one year for an individual.

3. Ontario Provincial Policy Statement issued under the Ontario Planning Act
The Provincial Policy Statement protects the habitat of threatened and endangered species by prohibiting development and site alteration in significant habitat of endangered and threatened species (Section 2.1.3[a]).

This policy also prohibits development and site alteration in "significant wildlife habitat" (Section 2.1.4[d]).

Section 6 of the policy states that "significant" as it applies to areas means those that are "ecologically important in terms of features, functions, representation or amount, and contributing to the quality and diversity of an identifiable geographic area or natural heritage system." In the same section, "wildlife habitat" is defined as "areas where plants, animals and other organisms live, and find adequate amounts of food, water, shelter and space needed to sustain their populations. Specific wildlife habitats of concern may include areas where species concentrate at a vulnerable point in their annual or life cycle; and areas which are important to migratory or non-migratory species."

It is important to note, however, that "development" is defined in Section 6 of the Provincial Policy Statement as "the creation of a new lot, a change in land use, or the construction of buildings and structures, requiring approval under the Planning Act." Significant wildlife habitat and the habitat of Threatened and Endangered species are not protected from any work under the Drainage Act, mining and mining exploration, or creation or maintenance of infrastructure (which includes roads).

4. Ontario Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act
The Fish and Wildlife Act prohibits hunting (killing, capturing, injuring and harassing) and trapping of "specially protected wildlife" (Section 5[1]). Hunting also includes lying in wait for, searching for, being on the trail of, pursuing, chasing and shooting at wildlife with the intent to kill it.

Specially protected wildlife includes specially protected reptiles and specially protected amphibians, which are listed in Schedules 9 and 10 of the act, respectively.

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Legal Protection for Ontario's Reptiles and Amphibians

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Ontario's reptiles and amphibians are protected under the federal Species at Risk Act and these provincial acts: These laws, as well as how they protect species and their habitats, are described below. 1.

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Little Renegades Mindful Kids Cards - Daytime Affirmation and Mindfulness for Kids

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Buy Little Renegades Mindful Kids Cards - Daytime Affirmation and Mindfulness for Kids: Flash Cards - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

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Price: CA $21.99

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50 Mindfulness Activities for Kindness, Focus and Calm

Introducing Mindful Kids, the one-of-a-kind mindfulness activity deck for kids age 4 to 104! Make any moment mindful from morning to night with 5 categories of cards, designed to fit into each part of the day. Whimsical full-color illustrations on both sides of the cards provide easy-to-follow steps for each practice. The cards and 8-page instructional booklet include tips for children of a wide range of abilities, making this deck an inclusive tool for nurturing inner peace and strength.

Awards & Accolades

Parents' Favorite Products Award, Tillywig Toy & Media Awards, 2017

Hot off the Press anticipated bestsellers, Children's Book Council, 2017

The Big List of Mindfulness Books for Kids, Imagination Soup, 2017

(Even More) Must Read Picture Books from 2017, Imagination Soup, 2017

Meaningful Ways to Help Kids with Anxiety, Imagination Soup, 2017

Mindfulness for Kids list, bambino goodies, 2018

My Top 20 Books About and For Kids Yoga, Always Be Dancing, 2017

15 Best Meditation Books: Helpful Resources For Learning and Practicing Meditation, Choosing Therapy, 2020

"Though geared towards children, the playful visualizations and exercises are powerful, life-changing tools that open pathways to inner strength and peace from which many an adult will benefit" - Tillywig Toy & Media Awards

"I fell in love with illustrator Mina Braun's adorable drawings and appreciated their fostering of diversity. It is so important to show that every child will be able to access the mindful activities on these cards" - Always Be Dancing

"The card format makes it easy to do the games and meditations with a child or classroom in small chunks of just a few minutes at a time" - Youth Services Book Review

About the Contributors

Whitney Stewart puts her heart, mind and feet into her work. She has trekked in a Himalayan snowstorm with Sir Edmund Hillary, climbed to remote Buddhist monasteries in Tibet, interviewed the Dalai Lama in India and sat for days in meditation retreats. She is the author of many travel articles, and of both fiction and nonfiction for children. When she is not writing or traveling, she teaches mindfulness and meditation to children and adults.

Mina Braun is an illustrator and printmaker from Germany. She now lives in Berlin, after studying at Edinburgh College of Art and working in bonny Scotland for more than a decade. All her work starts with a black line drawing, which then evolves into a screen print or digital image.

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Mindful Kids | Ages 4+ | Card Deck | Barefoot Books

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50 Mindfulness Activities for Kindness, Focus and Calm Introducing Mindful Kids, the one-of-a-kind mindfulness activity deck for kids age 4 to 104! Make any moment mindful from morning to night with 5 categories of cards, designed to fit into each part of the day.

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A Little Bit of Dirt: 55+ Science and Art Activities to Reconnect Children with Nature

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A Little Bit of Dirt: 55+ Science and Art Activities to Reconnect Children with Nature

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A Little Bit of Dirt: 55+ Science and Art Activities to Reconnect Children with Nature

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A Little Bit of Dirt: 55+ Science and Art Activities to Reconnect Children with Nature : Citro, Asia: Amazon.ca: Books

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CNAC - Reflection and Planning Template 

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CNAC - Reflection and Planning Template 

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Living in a northern city with over 330 lakes and substantial forests means that encounters with wildlife are bound to happen. It is important to take action to reduce any potentially threatening encounters and to respect local wildlife.

Feeding Wildlife

You are not permitted to leave food on private or public properties to attract or feed wild animals, feral cats or strays, unless:

You are an approved member of a rescue group working with the City of Greater Sudbury to manage feral cat colonies

You are baiting a trap in accordance with the Fish and Wild Animal Conservation Act, 1997, S.O. 1997, c. 41 or in the course of your employment as a licensed trapper, licensed wildlife or pest control agency, Greater Sudbury Compliance and Enforcement Officer or Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Inspector

If you feed songbirds on your personal property you must:

Place seed in a bird feeder and hang the feeder high enough to be out of reach of other animals

Clean up seeds that are spilled on the ground and dispose of the seeds in a manner that discourages wild animals, feral cats and strays.

Preventing Pet and Wildlife Interactions

Take action to keep your dogs and cats safe and away from wildlife:

Keep your pets on a leash and supervise pets when they are outside

Make sure your dogs and cats have up-to-date rabies vaccinations. You must vaccinate all cats and dogs over the age of three months

Do not feed or handle wildlife. Keep pet food indoors

Never transport or relocate wildlife

Store your garbage indoors until collection day

Check roof vents and make sure your chimney is capped

Repair holes and cracks in screens, walls and roof overhangs

Block openings under porches, patios and sheds

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Living in a northern city with over 330 lakes and substantial forests means that encounters with wildlife are bound to happen. It is important to take action to reduce any potentially threatening encounters and to respect local wildlife.

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List of Animals in city of Greater Sudbury 

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List of Animals in city of Greater Sudbury 

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Learn about the species that live inGreater Sudbury, ON, CA!

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Dropping Technology and Returning to the Great Outdoors

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Dropping Technology and Returning to the Great Outdoors

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By Kelsey Weber, LSW, March 20, 2018 -

"Dinner's ready, it's time to come in." "But Mom, just five more minutes!"

Do you remember playing outside until dark, hearing your parents call for you to come home and not wanting to go inside?

Fast forward 20 years. Does it seem as though your child is always inside watching TV, playing video games or accessing social media on their phone?

In the last two decades, childhood outdoor play has decreased while indoor play has increased. This has taken a toll mentally and physically on today's youth.

Spending less time outdoors has contributed to a rise in childhood obesity and the decline of creativity, concentration and social skills.

The National Wildlife Federation states the average American child spends as little as 30 minutes in unstructured outdoor play each day and more than seven hours each day in front of a screen, compared to three hours a day in 1995. In our expanding world of technology, it is extremely difficult for children to get away from electronics.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends parents monitor screen time for children ages 1-18 and never allow it to replace healthy activities - particularly sleep, social interaction and physical activity.

Too much screen time affects children in the following ways:

Children who consistently spend more than four hours per day on a screen are more likely to be overweight.

Children who watch violent TV shows or play violent video games are more likely to display aggressive behaviors or fear the world around them.

Children can be influenced by TV and video game characters that often display risky behaviors such as smoking and drinking.

So, what are the benefits of dropping technology and heading outside?

Evidence demonstrates the many benefits nature has on children's psychological and physical well-being. Recent studies have shown the necessity of spending time outdoors to reduce stress, increase creativity, and improve physical health and concentration.

Children who play outside are smarter, happier, more attentive, and less anxious than children who spend more time indoors. Play in nature includes, but is not limited to, these benefits:

Children build confidence by having less structure than most types of indoor play. Interacting in outdoor enivronments is limitless and allows children to choose how they treat and play in nature.

Nature promotes creativity and imagination by allowing children to interact meaningfully with their surroundings, which develops free thinking, creation of new activities, and viewing the world in different ways.

Children learn responsibility by taking care of living things and the environment that surrounds them.

Nature provides more stimulation than TV or video games due to the activation of more senses by being able to see, hear, smell, and touch the outdoors.

Nature helps increase physical activity.

Nature increases children's ability to focus, which decreases the negative effects associated with ADHD.

Nature creates a sense of wonder. For example, a child can watch animals interacting and ask questions to learn and understand.

Nature reduces stress and fatigue. Having wide open spaces enables children to run and play while ignoring distractions, burning energy, and decreasing daily stressors that exhaust their brains.

Although your child may want screen time and it may sometimes be the easier approach, the benefits of nature outweigh any possible benefits of screen time.

So, what can parents do to help get their children off the couch and outside? Parents can take their kids on walks, encourage outdoor games with friends, limit screen time per day, plan regular times for outdoor play, create activities with family members, and much more.

"It's not so much what children know about nature that's important, as what happens to them when they are in nature."- Unknown

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Dropping Technology and Returning to the Great Outdoors

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By Kelsey Weber, LSW, March 20, 2018 - "Dinner's ready, it's time to come in." "But Mom, just five more minutes!" Do you remember playing outside until dark, hearing your parents call for you to come home and not wanting to go inside? Fast forward 20 years.

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Children experience freedom when they play outside. Outdoor play is a natural way for children of all ages to do physical activity. It's good for children's health and well-being to be physically active through play. Being active burns energy and can help prevent illnesses in adulthood.

Benefits of outdoor play on children's health

Children can improve their health and fitness through outdoor play and leisure activity. The freedom and space of being outdoors can encourage more expansive movement leading to good physical exercise and helping prevent obesity.

When they play outdoors, children have fun and benefit from:

running and chasing which can develop good physical fitness, agility and stamina

jumping and running which can develop bone density, large muscle groups and stability

climbing which can develop coordination, balance and strength

time away from busy routines and time-tables

freedom to shout, make noise and let off steam

Being outdoors is good for eye health. Spending time outdoors reduces short-sightedness (myopia) in children and young people.

Benefits of outdoor play on children's well-being

Playing outdoors allows children to develop self-confidence, independence and self-esteem. They also become aware of limits, boundaries and challenge in their play.

When children are used to playing outdoors, they are more likely to:

try new activities

engage with others

solve problems

explore the natural environment

make friends

show resilience

Doing physical exercise every day

As they grow up, children experience rapid and different physical and psychological changes.These changes can influence their future health and well-being. For physical health and mental well-being, it's important that children get physical exercise.

By getting regular exercise through play, this can prevent illnesses as an adult including:

Pre-school aged children who can walk independently need to do physical activity for at least three hours every day. Children aged between five and 18 need to do vigorous activity for at least an hour every day.

Making time for playing outdoors

Children playing outdoors enjoy running around, climbing, balancing, dancing, digging and jumping. Parents should allow children space and freedom to play outdoors.

Encourage children to do traditional activities such as:

Playing in the neighbourhood

Get to know your neighbourhood by walking and cycling in the area. Bring your children so they know areas suitable for playing. Agree where they can play and where they must not go. Speak to other parents about allowing their children outdoors to play.

Staying safe outdoors

Teach your children how to stay safe outdoors when they're young. Show them road safety skills. If you're worried about your child's safety, stay nearby where they're playing.

Playing outdoors in all seasons

Whatever the weather, dress your children so they can go outdoors and play. Wear warm clothes on cold, wet days. Put sunscreen and hats on your children when the weather is hot and sunny. There are different things to do outdoors such as:

jumping in puddles

flying kites

building dens

melting ice

playing in snow

Limiting children's screen time

To encourage your children to go outdoors, you should limit their time on digital screens, including mobile technology and televisions.

More useful links

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Children experience freedom when they play outside. Outdoor play is a natural way for children of all ages to do physical activity. It's good for children's health and well-being to be physically active through play. Being active burns energy and can help prevent illnesses in adulthood.

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Impact of technology on kids today (and tomorrow).

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Impact of technology on kids today (and tomorrow).

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Hand a smartphone or tablet to a toddler, chances are they'll figure out how to open it and make some in-app purchases in a matter of seconds. The technological boom means that children are becoming computer experts at a very young age. Elementary school kids have classes on computers, and many of them have been using their computers and tablets at home well before they started school. As kids are learning from a very young age about technology, they're making huge strides as they grow in being prepared for schooling, future careers, innovation, and more. Your kids may even be able to help you with your online coursework at WGU!

However, with all this constant immersion in technology, there are some very real concerns about how this tech impacts childhood development. We are wandering into unknown territory as generations past have never had this same kind of constant technological immersion. But experts are starting to see what technology at this level can do to children and their future. Many of our WGU students are parents, and we want to help you

Kids have access to screens all around them. Many homes have multiple television sets, computers, tablets, and phones for children to find and play with. And some children even have access to their own tablet and phone, starting at a young age. Research shows that the average 8- to 10-year-old spends almost 8 hours a day with a variety of media, and older children and teenagers spend around 11 hours per day with media. That time adds up, and young people are spending more time with technology than they do in school.

Children and teenagers around the country aren't cutting down their media consumption either. Some teenagers say they send thousands of text messages each month, stay up until 2 AM scrolling social media, and spend hours each day playing video games. And this has continued to get more intense over time, as more apps and options arise to distract kids.

While many people see the negative impact of such technology usage, there also pros. The real question is what can parents and teachers do to harness technology in useful ways, without letting kids become slaves to it and the negative effects it can have on their lives.

Learn about the negative effects of technology on young children and teenagers.

Falling grades. Many students today can see their grades take a hit when they spend more time with technology. Increasing technology usage means less time spent on homework, and the kind of developmental changes technology can bring can make students struggle with homework like reading and writing.

Bullying. As technology flourishes, so does bullying. Children and teens are using technology and social media to bully other kids, without having to face them. Often called cyberbullying, this trend is increasing and getting more popular with even younger students.

Social interaction issues. With more time spent on technology, younger children are having issues with face-to-face social interactions. Many seem to prefer to text or talk on social media as opposed to talking to each other in-person. Even when children spend time together, they may spend more time texting or on their phones than actually being together.

While there are many negative impacts that can be connected to technology use, there are many positive impacts as well.

Helping them learn. There are many educational elements of technology that can help children learn. From TV programming to apps on a smartphone or tablet, there are many things that children can be exposed to that can help develop their mind and teach them new things.

Classroom tool. Many teachers have started using technology in classrooms to help students learn. Technology helps teachers reach different kinds of learners, reinforce and expand on concepts, and motivate students in new ways. As more teachers embrace technology, new kinds of learning can take place in classrooms, and more students can be reached in ways that they relate with.

Improved multitasking. Studies show that using technology helps young children learn how to multitask more effectively. While multitasking never allows you to fully focus on one area, students can learn how to listen and type to take notes, or other multitasking activities that can help them succeed in their future.

Parents and adults can help children get the benefits of technology with less of the negative effects. Parents can start by ensuring children under two don't use screens. They can also play along with children to include face-to-face interactions with technology, and make sure that tech doesn't interfere for opportunities to play. Parents should also work to set appropriate boundaries including time limits, and model good smartphone use. Cybersecurity software and systems can help ensure that kids stay safe while using technology.

Parents and teachers can watch for quality apps that promote vocabulary, math, literacy, and science. Adults can help make sure kids learn about computer science and IT as part of technology use to give them opportunities for a bright tech future.

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Impact of Technology on Kids Today and Tomorrow.

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Hand a smartphone or tablet to a kid, and they likely know exactly what to do with it. As technology use increases, and the users get younger and younger, it's vital to know how it impacts their future. Learn how technology directly impacts the development of young children.

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Starting from $230
4 Options to Choose from

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Each of our workshops offers something different, be it a taste of Forest and Nature School or a deep dive into supporting opportunities for risk-taking in children's play. The workshops are ideal for anyone and everyone looking to support play and learning in the outdoors, across sectors.

The Forest and Nature School Practitioners Course is intended for educators or those with similar backgrounds who are interested in starting their Forest and Nature School programs, or in incorporating elements of the philosophy into their practice. The Practitioners Course is a significant, year-long commitment, while the workshops are less so!

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Each of our workshops offers something different, be it a taste of Forest and Nature School or a deep dive into supporting opportunities for risk-taking in children's play. The workshops are ideal for anyone and everyone looking to support play and learning in the outdoors, across sectors.

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Video is in French and English
Video length: 6 minutes

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How to set up a tarp | Comment installer une bâche

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by Petra Eperjesi, Manager of National Programs

"Be careful!"

Saying (shouting) that can be such a knee-jerk reaction when we see kids doing something that we perceive as dangerous. Just today, as a group of students moved further away from us and towards the edge of a big, rocky slope, three adults began to shout it, almost in unison. Sometimes there is real reason for alarm. Sometimes there isn't. Working out the difference between the two is itself a subject for another blog post (or five).

But whether or not there is a high risk of injury at a given moment, what do we even mean when we say "Be Careful!"? It can mean, "I'm not sure what's over there, please wait for me to come have a closer look with you", or it can mean "slow down and watch where you're putting your feet" when someone is running on uneven, unstable ground. It can mean, "move farther away from those other kids before you throw that rock!" or it can mean "focus on what you're doing" when a child is making their way back down a tree.

In short, "Be careful!" can mean so much, but without the specific details, it can also be meaningless. (And when we hear something over and over and over again, we all start to tune out, don't we?)

Here, some ideas about what we might say instead of (or in addition to) "Be Careful!", organized according to Ellen Sandseter's 6 categories of risky play:
Play with Great Heights I usually find that it's not so much the speed that gets my inner alarm bell going as what/who might be tripped over or crashed into! So, I often find myself pausing play at great speeds to say: (i.e. tree climbing) Play with Harmful Tools It's important to know your students really well, to have a designated tool zone in a low-traffic area, and to take things like time of day and general energy of your group into consideration before introducing tools like knives or saws to with your students. But even things like rocks and sticks can be considered potentially harmful tools. We often say:

"Please find a safe spot for your stick while you're running."

"I've noticed that this is a really busy area and I'm worried that someone not playing this game might get knocked over. Watch out for other people and give them lots of space." Or, "Let's move to this lower-traffic zone."

"I've noticed that there are a lot of fallen trees and sticks to trip on here. Watch out!" or, "Should we move this game to a more open area?"

Play near Dangerous Elements I think it is important to front load a lot of the conversation about how to be safe around a dangerous element, before kids are near that dangerous element. Then the following phrases are more reminders and references to that initial, very focused conversation: (i.e. water, fire, ice) Rough and Tumble Play It took me some time, but I've come to see Rough and Tumble Play as a rich and authentic opportunity to learn about consent. I've found it helpful to pause the wrestling and say:

"Sticks need space. Mike, please back up from Sarah. She's holding a big stick!"

"Sticks need space. Sarah, look around you - do you have enough space to swing that big stick?"

"Please keep one end of your stick on the ground!"

"What's your plan with that big stick?"

"Rocks need space!"

"Find more space!"

"Before you throw that rock, what do you need to look for?"

"That rock looks really heavy! Can you manage it?"

Play where children can "disappear"/get lost This is a trickier one for us, as we do ask children to stay where we can see them, so that we know if they need help. But kids do so often want to hide, or find "shortcuts", and there are lots of ways to make that possible and safe. This has to do with due diligence - knowing our setting inside and out, knowing where poison ivy and ponds are, never taking children to places that are totally unfamiliar to us, etc. Sometimes it's possible for kids to feel like they're lost or that they've disappeared, without them being that way in truth. Here are some ways to facilitate that feeling of being unseen for a while:

"Please move slowly and carefully near the ___."

"Please give each other lots of space so that no one feels like they need to push, and no one gets knocked over by accident."

"Do you feel stable/balanced?"

"Do you need more space?"

"Make eye contact before you tackle someone. Make sure they know you are coming so that they can get their body ready."

"Check in with each other. Make sure everyone is still having a good time."

"Ask her if she's ok."

"Ask him if he's still having fun."

"Did you like that? Make sure you tell her if you didn't like that."

"If you need to run, meet me at the next trail marker!"

"Let's check this cave/fort to make sure it's safe to hide in."

Sometimes intervening verbally as in the ways suggested above still doesn't calm that gut feeling that something is too risky. Stay tuned for a future blog post about dynamically assessing risk, and including children in that process...

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by Petra Eperjesi, Manager of National Programs "Be careful!" Saying (shouting) that can be such a knee-jerk reaction when we see kids doing something that we perceive as dangerous.

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CNAC - Outdoor Play and Learning in Schools

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CNAC - Outdoor Play and Learning in Schools

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Get free seeds to plant in your garden and help save Monarch butterflies

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Get free seeds to plant in your garden and help save Monarch butterflies

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The link to see how to get the seeds: https://www.livemonarch.com/free-milkweed-seeds/

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SAN ANTONIO - In recent years butterfly populations have seen a decline but you can help save them - for free.

Live Monarch Educational Foundation has a program that sends free butterfly garden seeds to anyone who mails in an envelope.

All you need to do to get the 15 or more free seeds is send one, self-addressed, stamped envelope to Live Monarch and the organization will send milkweed seeds native to your area. The address can be found on the Live Monarch website.

"It is a favorite egg-laying plant which grows quickly and will sprout many seed pods," according to Live Monarch. "From time to time we may have other types and do our best to send them back to the regions where they were gathered."

If you'd like more seeds, you can also include a donation and Live Monarch will send 40 or more seeds per dollar as a thank you.

"These same seed packs sell all over the web for $2 - $4 for only a few seeds," according to the Live Monarch website.

If you choose to pay for the seeds, there is also an option to purchase them directly from the foundation.

"You will receive seeds and full-color Monarch rearing instruction sheets, milkweed growing instructions and our heartfelt thanks," Live Monarch officials said. "The information sheet is preprinted for you to keep as a reference sheet and to share the education to help Monarchs and butterflies in every life stage."

At the end of 2020, the Xerces Society published a study that said the Western Monarch Butterfly population reached an all-time low.

The study noted that only 2,000 butterflies were seen in the 2019 season - down from nearly 30,000 just two years prior.

"Butterflies make our world more beautiful. I don't think anybody can argue with that. But they also make our world livable, and everyone needs to understand that," Marianna Treviño-Wright, executive director of the National Butterfly Center previously told KSAT.

Treviño-Wright said to help restore butterfly populations, people should plant native species of plants that butterflies need to survive like the milkweed plants.

For a guide on how to plant a butterfly-friendly garden, count butterflies and learn about habitat restoration, visit Mission Monarch.

Related:

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Get free seeds to plant in your garden and help save Monarch butterflies

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SAN ANTONIO - In recent years butterfly populations have seen a decline but you can help save them - for free. Live Monarch Educational Foundation has a program that sends free butterfly garden seeds to anyone who mails in an envelope.

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Monarch butterflies are officially endangered

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Monarch butterflies are officially endangered

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Monarch butterflies are officially endangered

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The iconic monarch butterfly has been listed as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), a global authority on the conservation status of species. An endangered listing means the species is likely to go extinct without significant intervention. The listing of migratory monarchs (Danaus plexippus plexippus) on IUCN Red List of Threatened [...]

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First Nation pedagogical emphasis on imitation and making the stuff of life: Canadian lessons for indigenizing Forest Schools

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First Nation pedagogical emphasis on imitation and making the stuff of life: Canadian lessons for indigenizing Forest Schools

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Incorporating First Nations pedagogy in Forest Schools in Canada requires an appreciation of imitative learning

This theoretical/conceptual paper highlights the importance of incorporating Indigenous practices - especially practices involving complex hand work - in the development of Forest Schools in Canada. While the author is a non-native Canadian, she has considerable experience working with and living with First Nations people. Additionally, she has focused her academic studies and research activities for more than 30 years on First Nations pedagogy. In this paper, she calls attention to concerns relating to the way Forest Schools (FS) are implemented in Canada.

Two ideas associated with First Nations pedagogy are emphasized: freedom from structured play and an emphasis on observing and imitating as a path to learning. Forest Schools in general, as well as FS in Canada, tend to use a pedagogy that incorporates play and child-directed learning in nature. This approach contrasts with the author's First Nations experiences with regard to respecting Elders. Learning through imitation of the Elders is one of the primary components of First Nations pedagogy. This approach is not in opposition to play, as the First Nation's culture respects a child's freedom to choose what to imitate when playing. Opportunities for observing adults engaged in meaningful "making activities" can influence and enrich children's play choices.

First Nations' use of cradleboards and tethering straps are offered as examples of practices thought to nurture the sensory awareness and focusing ability of toddlers. Both practices are believed to support a First Nations child's cognitive development and sense of capability by providing continual exposure to functional activities worthy of imitation.

The author maintains that for Forest Schools in Canada to incorporate First Nations pedagogy, they need to acknowledge the influence of imitative learning. Children need greater exposure to adults engaged in traditional cultural activities, especially those that emphasize the practical handling of material from the land. First Nations' pedagogy can help children become capable adults with a strong sense of self in relation to their landscape. First Nations' pedagogy can promote FS goals while also positively impacting society as a whole. Incorporating First Nations pedagogy in FS in Canada can make an important contribution to the country's effort to decolonize educational practices.

Citation
MacEachren, Z., (2018). First Nation pedagogical emphasis on imitation and making the stuff of life: Canadian lessons for indigenizing Forest Schools. Journal of Outdoor and Environmental Education, 21, 89-102.
DOI
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s42322-017-0003-4

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Incorporating First Nations pedagogy in Forest Schools in Canada requires an appreciation of imitative learning - Children and Nature Network

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This theoretical/conceptual paper highlights the importance of incorporating Indigenous practices - especially practices involving complex hand work - in the development of Forest Schools in Canada. While the author is a non-native Canadian, she has considerable experience working with and living with First Nations people.

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CNAC - FOREST AND NATURESCHOOL IN CANADA: A Head, Heart, Hands Approach to Outdoor Learning

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CNAC - FOREST AND NATURESCHOOL IN CANADA: A Head, Heart, Hands Approach to Outdoor Learning

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CNAC - A Teacher's Guidebook for bringing learning outside

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CNAC - A Teacher's Guidebook for bringing learning outside

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Mission

"To strengthen the health and well-being of all Ontario children and their families by building a vibrant network of people and organizations who actively create opportunities for Ontarians to experience nature every day."

Our Network

Back to Nature Network is a diverse and growing group of organizations uniting to build capacity to connect children, youth and families with nature in ongoing and meaningful ways. The network grew from the international children and nature movement that is focused on addressing 'nature-deficit' disorder, a term spawned by Richard Louv's book Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-deficit Disorder. Over 80 member organizations representing education, health, planning, environment and active living sectors, have come together with the mission of strengthening the health and well-being of all Ontario children and their families by building a vibrant network of people and organizations who actively create opportunities to experience nature every day.

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"To strengthen the health and well-being of all Ontario children and their families by building a vibrant network of people and organizations who actively create opportunities for Ontarians to experience nature every day." Back to Nature Network is a diverse and growing group of organizations uniting to build capacity to connect children, youth and families with nature in ongoing and meaningful ways.

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Sara Starbuck: Sara Starbuck, EdD, is an associate professor in the Department of Human Environmental Studies and administrative director of the Early Childhood Centers for Training, Research, and Education at Southeast Missouri State University. Dr. Starbuck has over thirty years of experience in the field of early childhood education as a teacher educator, administrator, and teacher of young children, and she is deeply involved in connecting children to nature and helping adults understand the importance of nature in the children's lives. She earned her EdD from Nova Southeastern University in child and youth studies with a specialization in management of programs. Her BS and MS degrees are from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, in early childhood education.

Marla Olthof: Marla Olthof has nearly a decade of experience teaching toddlers and preschoolers and has trained a variety of teachers in a multitude of settings, including undergraduate practicum experiences and student teaching, at Southern Illinois University and the Purdue University Calumet Head Start Resource Center. Marla also enjoys volunteering in the classroom as the parent of three elementary school-aged daughters.

Karen Midden: Karen Midden is a professor in plant, soil, and agricultural systems at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. She is a landscape architect working in Illinois and teaches landscape design, designing outdoor spaces, and sustainable landscape practices. Her current research and projects include urban agriculture, green roofs, and vertical gardening.

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Gardens are where children's imaginations engage nature, and the result is joyful learning. This easy-to-understand "how-to" book guides teachers through the unique and expansive learning opportunities offered by gardening with children through age eight-green thumb or the perfect plot of land no...

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Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children 

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Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children 

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"Angela Hanscom is a powerful voice for balance."
-Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods

In this important book, a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of TimberNook shows how outdoor play and unstructured freedom of movement are vital for children's cognitive development and growth, and offers tons of fun, engaging ways to help ensure that kids grow into healthy, balanced, and resilient adults.

Today's kids have adopted sedentary lifestyles filled with television, video games, and computer screens. But more and more, studies show that children need "rough and tumble" outdoor play in order to develop their sensory, motor, and executive functions. Disturbingly, a lack of movement has been shown to lead to a number of health and cognitive difficulties, such as attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), emotion regulation and sensory processing issues, and aggressiveness at school recess break. So, how can you ensure your child is fully engaging their body, mind, and all of their senses?

Using the same philosophy that lies at the heart of her popular TimberNook program-that nature is the ultimate sensory experience, and that psychological and physical health improves for children when they spend time outside on a regular basis-author Angela Hanscom offers several strategies to help your child thrive, even if you live in an urban environment.

Today it is rare to find children rolling down hills, climbing trees, or spinning in circles just for fun. We've taken away merry-go-rounds, shortened the length of swings, and done away with teeter-totters to keep children safe. Children have fewer opportunities for unstructured outdoor play than ever before, and recess times at school are shrinking due to demanding educational environments.

With this book, you'll discover little things you can do anytime, anywhere to help your kids achieve the movement they need to be happy and healthy in mind, body, and spirit.

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Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children

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Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children: Hanscom, Angela J., Louv, Richard: 9781626253735: Books - Amazon.ca

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The Goodness of Rain by Ann Pelo (2013-05-03)

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Worms, Shadows, and Whirlpools: Science in the Early Childhood Classroom

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Worms, Shadows, and Whirlpools: Science in the Early Childhood Classroom

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This book represents a new way to think about science education for young children. Based on the growing understanding that even the littlest learners are powerful thinkers and theory makers, it identifies important science inquiry skills and concepts appropriate for the very young. What's more, it makes a strong case for integrating science into the curriculum right from the start, creating a context for the development of language, mathematical thinking, and social skills.

Authors Karen Worth and Sharon Grollman define and illustrate what science education can and should be. They draw upon what is known about the learning, effective teaching, and science education of young children by using the daily work of teachers and children in Head Start, kindergarten, day care, and preschool programs. They fill their book with teacher stories, photographs, and examples of children's work, plus commentary highlighting particular teaching strategies and child learning. Read this book and understand what a quality science program encompasses. Then see what the youngest students can do given the opportunity to explore phenomena and materials that draw upon their natural curiosity, captivate, motivate, and prepare them for ideas important to later learning.

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Worms, Shadows, and Whirlpools: Science in the Early Childhood Classroom

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This book represents a new way to think about science education for young children. Based on the growing understanding that even the littlest learners are powerful thinkers and theory makers, it identifies important science inquiry skills and concepts appropriate for the very young. What's mo...

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How to Be an Explorer of the World: Portable Life Museum

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How to Be an Explorer of the World: Portable Life Museum

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From the internationally bestselling creator of Wreck This Journal , an interactive guide for exploring and documenting the art and science of everyday life.

Artists and scientists analyze the world around them in surprisingly similar ways, by observing, collecting, documenting, analyzing, and comparing. In this captivating guided journal, readers are encouraged to explore their world as both artists and scientists.

The mission Smith proposes? To document and observe the world around you as if you've never seen it before. Take notes. Collect things you find on your travels. Document findings. Notice patterns. Copy. Trace. Focus on one thing at a time. Record what you are drawn to.

Through this series of beautifully hand-illustrated interactive prompts, readers will enjoy exploring and discovering the world in ways they never even imagined.

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How to Be an Explorer of the World: Portable Life Museum

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How to Be an Explorer of the World: Portable Life Museum: Smith, Keri: 8601400187364: Books - Amazon.ca

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Learning is in Bloom Cultivation Outdoor Explorations

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Learning is in Bloom Cultivation Outdoor Explorations

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Learning is in Bloom: Cultivating Outdoor Explorations

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Learning is in Bloom: Cultivating Outdoor Explorations: Wilson PhD, Ruth: 9780876593745: Books - Amazon.ca

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SchoolTube - Safe video sharing and management for K12

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Years after it was published, Stranger in the Woods remains a bestseller, with more than one-million copies in print and repeated appearances on the bestseller lists. Winner of numerous awards, including the 2001 International Reading Association's highest honour, this charming tale uses wildlife photography to tell the story of animals' reactions to a snowman who appears in the woods after a winter storm.

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Stranger in the Woods: Sams, Carl R., Stoick, Jean, Sams, Carl R., Stoick, Jean: 9780967174808: Books - Amazon.ca

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Bruce the bear likes to keep to himself. That, and eat eggs. But when his hard-boiled goose eggs turn out to be real, live goslings, he starts to lose his appetite. And even worse, the goslings are convinced he's their mother. Bruce tries to get the geese to go south, but he can't seem to rid himself of his new companions. What's a bear to do?

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Mother Bruce: Higgins, Ryan, Higgins, Ryan: 9781484730881: Books - Amazon.ca

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Read Aloud: Winter Walk by Virginia Brimhall Snow

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Winter Walk: Snow, Virginia: 9781423637479: Books - Amazon.ca

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Fall Stories for Kids: WE'RE GOING ON A LEAF HUNT

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Did you know dandelions thrive on all seven continents? The cheery blooms are among the most resilient and adaptable in the world. In this lyrical book, learn how the crafty plant travels on the wind and hitches rides in all manner of ways in order to spread far and wide. Includes a map and backmatter on dandelions.

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Did you know dandelions thrive on all seven continents? The cheery blooms are among the most resilient and adaptable in the world. In this lyrical book, learn how the crafty plant travels on the wind and hitches rides in all manner of ways in order to spread far and wide.

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A dandelion can teach much about seeds and seasons and cycles, and the big world that a wind-blown seed can travel, but it also can make us appreciate the challenges it must overcome. This gorgeous book is at once simple and profound. You may be surprised and pleased by the questions and observations of your children after reading this together.

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A dandelion can teach much about seeds and seasons and cycles, and the big world that a wind-blown seed can travel, but it also can make us appreciate the challenges it must overcome. This gorgeous book is at once simple and profound. You may be surprised and pleased by the questions and observat...

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With art by home and classroom favorite Aliki, The Listening Walk will remind both adults and kids of the wonders all around them...if they slow down and listen .

"A fine resource for studying the senses." - Booklist

Put on your socks and shoes-and don't forget your ears! We're going on a listening walk. Shhhhh. Do not talk. Do not hurry. Get ready to fill your ears with a world of wonderful and surprising sounds.

A little girl and her father take a quiet walk and identify the sounds around them. Soon the girl discovers an extraordinary world of sounds in her everyday environment.

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The Listening Walk : Showers, Paul, Aliki: Amazon.ca: Books

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*No written reviews

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Water is everywhere, from rain and your tap water to our lakes and river. With vivid photographs, clear text, diagrams, and fun facts, this informative set covers all the basic facts about water in our world.

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Water is everywhere, from rain and your tap water to our lakes and river. With vivid photographs, clear text, diagrams, and fun facts, this informative set covers all the basic facts about water in our world.

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The Adventures of a Plastic Bottle: A Story About Recycling

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The Adventures of a Plastic Bottle: A Story About Recycling

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Learn about recycling from a new perspective! Peek into this diary of a plastic bottle as it goes on a journey from the refinery plant, to the manufacturing line, to the store shelf, to a garbage can, and finally to a recycling plant where it emerges into it's new life...as a fleece jacket!

Told from the point of view of a free-spirited plastic bottle, kids can share in the daily experiences and inner thoughts of the bottle through his personal journal. The diary entries will be fun and humorous yet point out the ecological significance behind each product and the resources used to make it. Readers will never look at a plastic bottle the same way again!

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The Adventures of a Plastic Bottle: A Story About Recycling

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Learn about recycling from a new perspective! Peek into this diary of a plastic bottle as it goes on a journey from the refinery plant, to the manufacturing line, to the store shelf, to a garbage can, and finally to a recycling plant where it emerges into it's new life...as a fleece jacket!...

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A new "green" series!: Little Green Books will educate children on what they can do to be more eco-friendly. The books in this line will be made from recycled materials, and the storylines will cover subjects such as improving the environment, learning about endangered animals, recycling, and much more.

Kids can follow Max the Little Green Monster's journey to environmental awareness and learn tips on how they can become little green monsters themselves. A kid-friendly glossary of terms is included in the back of the book.

This 8x8 paperback is perfect bound and will be printed on 100% post-consumer waste recycled paper with soy-ink. The paper is FSC certified.
Meet Max the Little Monster. He is a cute, furry green monster who is an environmental nightmare. Among other things, he leaves on all the lights, keeps his computer plugged in, blasts the TV, hoards his old toys and uses so much toilet paper it clogs the toilet until finally, his excessive ways cause a power outage. With no TV to watch, computer to play on, video games to play with, Max finds there is a whole big world outside that he can make a difference in the environment.

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I Can Save the Earth!: One Little Monster Learns to Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle

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I Can Save the Earth!: One Little Monster Learns to Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle: Inches, Alison, Garofoli, Viviana: 9781416967897: Books - Amazon.ca

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I CAN SAVE THE EARTH by Alison Inches and Viviana Garofoli - Children's Book - Read aloud

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Maple Tree: Schwartz, David M.: 9781574715569: Books - Amazon.ca

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*No written reviews

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Do Trees Get Hungry?: Noticing Plant and Animal Traits (Cloverleaf Books ™ - Nature's Patterns)

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Do Trees Get Hungry?: Noticing Plant and Animal Traits (Cloverleaf Books ™ - Nature's Patterns) eBook : Rustad, Martha E. H., Moran, Mike: Amazon.ca: Kindle Store

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Big Tracks, Little Tracks: Following Animal Prints

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Big Tracks, Little Tracks: Following Animal Prints

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Read and find out about how to track animals by finding footprints and other clues in this colorfully illustrated nonfiction picture book.

Does a cat use her claws when she walks? How does a rabbit run? What does a skunk smell like? Find out the answers in Big Tracks, Little Tracks, a perfect first book for children with a budding interest in animals and nature.

This is a clear and appealing science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom. It includes a find out more page with lots of hands-on activities.

This is a Level 1 Let's-Read-and-Find-Out, which means the book explores introductory concepts perfect for children in the primary grades. The 100+ titles in this leading nonfiction series are:

Top 10 reasons to love LRFOs:

Entertain and educate at the same time

Have appealing, child-centered topics

Developmentally appropriate for emerging readers

Focused; answering questions instead of using survey approach

Employ engaging picture book quality illustrations

Use simple charts and graphics to improve visual literacy skills

Feature hands-on activities to engage young scientists

Meet national science education standards

Written/illustrated by award-winning authors/illustrators & vetted by an expert in the field

Over 130 titles in print, meeting a wide range of kids' scientific interests

Books in this series support the Common Core Learning Standards, Next Generation Science Standards, and the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) standards. Let's-Read-and-Find-Out is the winner of the American Association for the Advancement of Science/Subaru Science Books & Films Prize for Outstanding Science Series.

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Big Tracks, Little Tracks: Following Animal Prints

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Big Tracks, Little Tracks: Following Animal Prints : Selsam, Millicent E, Donnelly, Marlene Hill: Amazon.ca: Books

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Dans ce deuxième livre de la série, les jeunes apprendront tout sur les insectes, leur métamorphose, leurs divers habitats, leurs cycles de migration et d'hibernation, et bien plus encore! Une double page aide les enfants à différencier les " vrais insectes " des insectes imposteurs, tels que les araignées et les escargots. Les lecteurs apprendront également à connaître les bestioles au sein de leurs communautés à l'aide d'un questionnaire d'observation. De plus, vous retrouverez une foule d'informations sur les espèces menacées, une activité de fabrication de mangeoire à insectes et un glossaire détaillé!

In this second book in the series, kids will learn all about bugs: metamorphosis, bug habitats, migration and hibernation, a year in the life of a bug, and more. A two-page spread helps kids identify the differences between insects and some common "insect impostors," like spiders and snails. Readers will even get to know the bugs in their communities with the help of a bug-watching questionnaire. Back matter includes information about endangered bugs, an insect feeder activity, and a glossary.

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En pleine nature : Les bestioles: Hickman, Pamela M., Gavin, Carolyn: 9781443177634: Books - Amazon.ca

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Pamela Hickman (Author), Carolyn Gavin (Illustrator)

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Nature All Around: Bugs: Hickman, Pamela, Gavin, Carolyn: 9781771388207: Books - Amazon.ca

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Est-ce que tous les oiseaux pondent des œufs? Pourquoi certains oiseaux migrent-ils? Où vont-ils en hiver? Avec ce magnifique livre illustré, les jeunes lecteurs prendront plaisir à observer les oiseaux au fil des saisons. Ils apprendront à identifier les oiseaux qu'ils voient tous les jours et découvriront comment ils construisent leur nid. Ce livre informatif et haut en couleur saura piquer la curiosité des ornithologues en herbe!

Bursting with whimsical and painterly illustrations, En pleine nature is the ultimate comprehensive guide to the natural world. In this stunningly illustrated book, young readers will delight in following birds through the four seasons, discovering how and where birds build their nests and learning to identify the birds they see around them every day. This vibrant and informative exploration of birds will have budding birders chirping for more.

Original title: Nature All Around: Birds

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En pleine nature : Les oiseaux: Hickman, Pamela M., Gavin, Carolyn: 9781443185578: Books - Amazon.ca

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The perfect resource for budding bird-watchers, this beautiful, comprehensive introduction encourages children to appreciate the wonderful world of birds all around them. Because birds can be spotted in every neighborhood, and in all seasons, they are an excellent choice for piquing children's interest in wildlife. Here's a comprehensive, child-friendly guide to birds that makes the perfect starting point. Colorful pages explore the characteristics of different bird species, along with many of their fascinating and unique features, from their feathers to their eggs and nests. A journey through a year in the lives of birds gives readers clues to what to look for, season by season. And a beginning bird-watcher section helps youngsters get started in the field, including a list of what tools they need to use, and guiding questions to help with bird identification (for example, by their song, size and unusual color patterns).

This book is part of the Nature All Around series, which encourages children to hone their observation skills in order to appreciate the variety of wildlife that can be found right outside their front doors. Bestselling, award-winning author Pamela Hickman brings birds up close, with loads of fun facts about bird life cycles, homes, habitats and most common behaviors. The vivid illustrations by Carolyn Gavin offer clear depictions of the subjects and is a pleasure to peruse. This book has many curriculum applications in grades two to five, when children are learning about the characteristics of living things, and covers both life science and earth science topics. End matter includes information on how readers can help endangered birds, a bird feeder activity, a glossary and an index.

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The perfect resource for budding bird-watchers, this beautiful, comprehensive introduction encourages children to appreciate the wonderful world of birds all around them. Because birds can be spotted in every neighborhood, and in all seasons, they are an excellent choice for piquing children'...

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Pamela Hickman (Author), Carolyn Gavin (Illustrator)

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Nature All Around: Trees: Hickman, Pamela, Gavin, Carolyn: 9781771388047: Books - Amazon.ca

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En pleine nature : Les arbres: Hickman, Pamela M., Gavin, Carolyn: 9781443173841: Books - Amazon.ca

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Whether kids live in the city or the country, they know that trees are an important part of the environment. Trees provide food and shelter for local wildlife. But how can children learn about the trees in their neighborhood? And how can they find out about the trees in other parts of Canada? This book in the Kids Canadian Nature Series contains large pictures, hands-on activities and accessible information to help children learn about trees in Canada. Each page is packed with fascinating facts that will stimulate the interest of young nature enthusiasts.

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Whether kids live in the city or the country, they know that trees are an important part of the environment. Trees provide food and shelter for local wildlife. But how can children learn about the trees in their neighborhood? And how can they find out about the trees in other parts of Canada?

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In the Woods: Elliott, David, Dunlavey, Rob: 9780763697839: Books - Amazon.ca

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*Reviews mentioned it's information (mixed reviews)

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Couplets, scientific drawings, and descriptions introduce sixteen amphibians and reptiles found in the United States

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*No reviews

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Apprentis lecteurs - Sciences : La vie dans l’étang

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Apprentis lecteurs - Sciences : La vie dans l’étang: Fowler, Allan: 9780545998031: Books - Amazon.ca

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*No reviews
* Didn't Find read-aloud

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Apprentis lecteurs - Sciences : La vie des papillons

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Apprentis lecteurs - Sciences : La vie des papillons : Fowler, Allan: Amazon.ca: Books

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Turtles by Melvin and Gilda Berger - Read Aloud

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Prize-winning author, Melvin Berger, believes that science should always be fun. In his books - he has written over 200! - and in his talks to young people, he stresses the excitement of science and the thrill of scientific discovery.

He also believes in a hands-on approach to science for young people. Many of his books are full of interesting, informative, and easy-to-do activities and experiments.

His great enthusiasm for science spills over into Mr. Berger's hobby of collecting old scientific instruments. In his collection is everything from 18th century microscopes to an ancient chinese opium balance.

Born and raised in New York City, Mr. Berger has earned degrees from the University of Rochester, Columbia University, and London (England) University. In 1983, he was elected to the New York Academy of Sciences. Over the years he has won awards from the Children's book Council, National Science Teachers Association, Child Study Association, Library of Congress, and New York Public Library. He lives in New York City and East Hampton, New York, with his wife, Gilda, who is also an author.

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Prize-winning author, Melvin Berger, believes that science should always be fun. In his books - he has written over 200! - and in his talks to young people, he stresses the excitement of science and the thrill of scientific discovery.

He also believes in a hands-on approach to science for young people. Many of his books are full of interesting, informative, and easy-to-do activities and experiments.

His great enthusiasm for science spills over into Mr. Berger's hobby of collecting old scientific instruments. In his collection is everything from 18th century microscopes to an ancient chinese opium balance.

Born and raised in New York City, Mr. Berger has earned degrees from the University of Rochester, Columbia University, and London (England) University. In 1983, he was elected to the New York Academy of Sciences. Over the years he has won awards from the Children's book Council, National Science Teachers Association, Child Study Association, Library of Congress, and New York Public Library. He lives in New York City and East Hampton, New York, with his wife, Gilda, who is also an author.

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Bees Live in Hives: Berger, Melvin, Berger, Gilda: 9780439471794: Books - Amazon.ca

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Subject: Bees; Juvenile Fiction / Animals / Insects, Spiders, Etc; Juvenile Nonfiction / Animals / Insects, Spiders, Etc; Nature / Insects & Spiders; Science / Life Sciences / Zoology / Entomology,Author: Melvin and Gilda Berger,Format: Paperback,Publication Year: 2002,Publisher: Scholastic,Langu...

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Where in the Wild?: Camouflaged Creatures Concealed... and Revealed

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Where in the Wild?: Camouflaged Creatures Concealed... and Revealed

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Ten creatures await, camouflaged in artful, full-page photographs, while playful poems offer clues about each animal's identity and whereabouts. Think you've spotted one? Lift one of ten gatefolds to find out. A full page of fascinating information accompanies each animal so readers can learn how nature's camouflage serves hunter and hunted alike. Why do fawns have spots during their first year of life? How did killdeer birds get their name? What makes a crab spider so good at ambushing its prey? magazine

Listed in "Lasting Connections of 2007," an annual roundup of the year's best books to tie into curriculum.
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Recipient of the 2008 American Association for the Advancement of Science/Subaru Science Book and Films Prize for Excellence in Science Books.

Named a 2008 Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12 by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) and the Children's Book Council (CBC)

Editor's Choice, 2007- Booklist Book Links magazine

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Where in the Wild?: Camouflaged Creatures Concealed... and Revealed

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Where in the Wild?: Camouflaged Creatures Concealed... and Revealed : Schwartz, David M., Schy, Yael, Kuhn, Dwight: Amazon.ca: Books

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From about four months old, my grandson has loved this book with its lovely red-blue-yellow graphics. No words, none necessary, and it lends itself to "Can you find the red bird?" on every page. (Yes, he can!) And not a product tie-in anywhere. Lovely addition to the bookshelf. Please do more like this, Craig Frazier!

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Bee & Bird: Frazier, Craig, Frazier, Craig: 9781596436602: Books - Amazon.ca

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EyeLike Shapes: See! Learn! Grow!: PlayBac: Books - Amazon.ca

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- Posted on -

Catching and holding frogs can be an enjoyable experience for anyone, especially children. I caught toads when I was young and I bet many of you reading this did too.

Did you have stop and wondered if holding frogs is safe? Or consider whether your actions were harming the happy little toad? Well, that's probably why you're here! I'll answer these questions and more.
When handling frogs, toads, or other amphibians, there are precautions you should take to protect yourself and the animal.
For example, amphibians and reptiles can carry Salmonella, a bacteria that is dangerous to humans, especially for children under the age of 5.

Another thing to consider is the health of the frog. Are you hurting it? Is there a proper way to catch and hold a frog? You may be surprised to learn that frogs can absorb salts, oils, and chemicals from your hands. This is due to their semi-permeable skin, which allows them to absorb oxygen from water.

Because of these reasons, it's important to practice frog holding etiquette. With some knowledge and preparation, catching and handling frogs can be accomplished safely and with little chance of harming yourself or the frog.

Understanding The Potential Dangers of Handling Frogs

Me holding a red-eyed tree frog. Photo by: frogpets.com

Whether you're handling frogs in the wild or in captivity makes little difference. Both the frog's health and your health can be placed in jeopardy without following safety measures.

In this section, I'll go over the dangers humans face while handling frogs as well as the dangers the frog faces. Here is a quick overview:

Some frogs are poisonous

They can carry salmonella

Amphibians absorb chemicals lingering on your hands

Squeezing frogs too hard can result in injury or death

Frogs jumping or falling from your hands can be harmful to them

Let's first start by looking at the dangers people encounter when handling frogs.

Protect Yourself

Chances are, you are reading this guide because you're concerned about the safety of your pet frog. It's fantastic that you're considerate enough to learn the best method for handling your frog but you should be aware that your health is at risk too.

Most frog enthusiasts know how dangerous poison-dart frogs are. In the wild, these colorful frogs eat a variety of insects containing alkaloids which are then sequestered into potent toxins.

Fear not! There are only a handful of potentially deadly poison dart frogs and they've native to Central and South America. Should you live in these areas or plan to visit in the near future, it's good to learn how to identify poisonous frogs.

The deadliest frog is the Phyllobates terribilis and just one of these frogs can carry enough poison to kill two adult elephants. But did you know cane toads are poisonous as well? Cane toads have been found in Texas, Florida, and throughout parts of Mexico.

In fact, most frogs produce some type of toxin. Those toxins are used as a defense mechanism against their predators. They're mostly harmless to humans and only mildly irritating to most cats and dogs.

Aside from a frog's toxins, which are usually mild and harmless to humans, there is another thing to know about.

Amphibians and reptiles have been known to carry Salmonella. Salmonella is a harmful bacteria that commonly results in diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps.

Salmonella is thought to spread through amphibian and reptile droppings. You can become infected if you handle a frog with salmonella and you touch your mouth or rub your eyes without first washing and sanitizing your hands.

The data from one study suggests exposure to amphibians and reptiles is associated with as many as ~74,000 salmonella infections each year in the US .

Because of this, always wash your hands with soap and water after handling reptiles or amphibians.

Protect the Frog

Handling frogs without first cleaning your hands can be dangerous for amphibians! Soap, oil, and other chemicals are harmful to amphibians because their skin is delicate .

Amphibians have a semi-permeable, membranous skin which contains a network of blood vessels where respiratory gases and other elements are processed.

Essentially, this allows them to absorb oxygen in the water which comes into contact with their skin. Not just water though, anything that touches their skin can be absorbed; including the chemicals on your hands.

Even picking up a frog after washing your hands with soap is discouraged because the residue is still lingering on your hands. Not only is this something to consider but squeezing frogs too hard will cause severe pain and even death.

Yet another thing to factor is stress; most frogs become stressed while being held. For this reason, it's a good idea to avoid holding frogs as much as possible.

Last but not least, frogs are incredible jumpers and often jump from their keeper's hands. While most are equipped to handle big falls, it still poses a potential problem.

And if they don't get hurt from the fall, they are unquestionably difficult to catch! If you're unable to find your frog and it remains outside its habitat for an extended period of time, starvation and dehydration become a threat.

These are the dangers frogs face every time you handle them. For that reason, it's best to avoid holding frogs.

How to Safely Handle Frogs

Now that we understand the potential hazards of holding frogs, let's look at a few safety precautions you can take. I'll also guide you on how to pick up and hold a frog with your hands.

Holding frogs with your hands

Whether you need to catch a frog in the wild or you want to hold a captive amphibian at home, using your hands is fast and effective. But before you get started you need to wash your hands or wear non-powdered vinyl gloves.

1. Washing your hands - Ensure your hands are thoroughly washed, removing all soap, detergent, sunscreen, etc. Your hands should remain wet while handling the amphibian.

2. Wearing non-powdered vinyl gloves - Wearing disposable gloves is a great way to protect you from getting salmonella and it protects the frog from harmful toxins that may be on your skin. Powder-free gloves are preferred & you can pick these up online for very cheap.

Once your hands are wet and you're ready to handle the frog, place your thumb on the back of the frog, just below its head. Scoop up the frog with your fingers around the torso. The frog or toad should be laying on your fingers while your thumb is holding them gently in place.

Alternatively, your thumb can be placed under the frog while your pointer and index finger gently hold pressure on the back of the frog. Apply slight pressure to keep the frog from escaping but don't squeeze too hard.

Using Nets or Containers

Another way to catch your frog and avoid contact altogether is by using a small aquarium net. A 6-inch fish net will suffice for catching most amphibians. If that's too small, you can opt for using a larger dip net.

Using a paper plate is another way to scoop up an amphibian. This method is only recommended if you're transporting your pet over short distances.

Many keepers do their best to avoid all contact with their amphibians but they still need to clean their enclosures from time to time. Transporting frogs with plastic containers is one way to transfer them into a temporary enclosure for cleaning.

My final suggestion is to use small, plastic containers to hold your frogs, toads, or other amphibians. Small, disposable containers or even Tupperware are perfect for holding small creatures temporarily. Just be sure the container is clean and has small holes to provide airflow.

This is common practice among reptile owners. Placing your beloved pet inside a safe, clean container is a great way to temporarily store them outside their permanent enclosure while you clean.

Wash Your Hands After Handling Frogs

When you're finished handling your frog, you always need to wash your hands with antibacterial soap. Even if you wore gloves, I suggest you go the extra mile and wash thoroughly. Frogs, as I mentioned already, can carry salmonella germs so be safe and clean up.

Disinfect any surface the frog came into contact with. Be mindful of what they touched so you can go back later to clean those spots too.

Also, do not touch your mouth or rub your eyes in between the time you handle a frog and wash your hands! This is the quickest way to transfer salmonella germs. As always, stay safe and avoid handling amphibians as much as possible.

TLDR; The Basics of Frog Handling Etiquette

Catching frogs is a fun activity for kids. It's mostly harmless, too. Having said that, it can be potentially dangerous. In this section, I'll summarize the important information and give you tips for the next time you (or your kids) encounter a frog!

Frogs have toxins on their skin. The toxins provide a defense against small animals but, in most cases, they're virtually harmless to humans. Toads have large glands behind their eyes. Don't squeeze it - this is where they store bufotoxins.

Poison dart frogs are mostly found in Central and South America. They're small, colorful frogs and they're rather potent. It's best to avoid them. Most people in the US, Canada, and UK, it's unlikely you'll encouter one.

Although rare, amphibians and reptiles can carry Salmonella, a harmful bacteria.

Frogs don't like being handled and their skin is semi-permeable. This means they can absorb harmful chemicals from your skin.

Because amphibians are delicate, it's best to leave them alone and admire them from afar. If you simply cannot help yourself, the paragraph below will teach you how to hold a frog.

Ensure your hands are clean and slightly wet. Gently hold your thumb and index finger around the frog's body (see the pictures above). Don't squeeze too hard. The sooner you release the frog, the better. Don't touch your eyes or mouth, and go wash your hands with antibacterial soap.

References

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Frog Handling Etiquette: Things You Should Know - FrogPets

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Posted on - Catching and holding frogs can be an enjoyable experience for anyone, especially children. I caught toads when I was young and I bet many of you reading this did too. Did you have stop and wondered if holding frogs is safe? Or consider whether your actions were harming the happy little toad?

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CNAC - Helpful Tips for Outdoor Play and Learning

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CNAC - Helpful Tips for Outdoor Play and Learning

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The Child & Nature Alliance of Canada explains what should be in a First Aid Kit but it not limited to what was listed.

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Child & Nature Alliance of Canada Podcast - Supporting Children with Disabilities/Exceptionalities Outside

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Child & Nature Alliance of Canada Podcast - Supporting Children with Disabilities/Exceptionalities Outside

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*Podcast is embedded

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What to Wear for Outdoor Teaching and Learning (For Warm, Cold, & Wet conditions)

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What to Wear for Outdoor Teaching and Learning (For Warm, Cold, & Wet conditions)

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Frequently Asked Questions about Outdoor Play and Learning

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Frequently Asked Questions about Outdoor Play and Learning

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19 reasons NOT to feed or touch wild animals

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19 reasons NOT to feed or touch wild animals

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Animals can look cute and let's face it, who doesn't love a fluffy, cuddly animal? However, this vision of animals has been 'disneyfied' which poses a greater risk to animals' health and wellbeing. If we want to be responsible, we must learn to not feed or touch wild animals. Here's why.

When I started writing this post I was based in Costa Rica where it is illegal to feed or touch wild animals. However, as I am finishing this off I am in Florida where the attitude towards wild animals can be quite despicable.

In Costa Rica it is illegal to touch of feed wild animals however in America (as well as many other places around the world) animals are freely exploited as a means of entertainment. The majority of people I speak to are clueless about animal welfare or even acknowledging animals as anything other than dumb entities, solely there for human pleasure.

Too frequently around the world, I see animals used as exhibits with people touching and feeding (semi) wild animals in the name of 'learning'. If we love animals we should NOT be touching or feeding them and here's why!

19 Reasons Why We Shouldn't Touch Or Feed Wild Animals

1. Animals are highly susceptible to diseases from human hands. They can die from bacteria transferred from your hands that has no ill effect on you. They can react badly to your perfume, shower gel and even worse BUG SPRAY. Insect repellent is toxic to many animals (including you, ironically) and you can end up killing them. Frogs, dolphins, whales, starfish and reptiles are particularly susceptible to human bacteria passed from your hands.

2. Feeding wild animals creates a dependency on humans that diminishes the animals natural, survival abilities. In short, it's dangerous for the animal because they can end up starving.

3. Feeding interferes and upsets the balance of the food chain which, for birds, is often centred on eating wild fruits, seeds, small animals and insects.

4. Irregular feeding can lead to aggressive behaviour towards humans. This has resulted in human injuries and even death. People have been bitten while feeding wild animals, some of which carry infectious diseases such as rabies, bubonic plague or hantavirus.

5. If we feed wild animals the wrong food they can become sick or addicted to the wrong type of food. Human food is often contaminated with pesticides and can be upsetting to delicate digestive systems causing serious problems that lead to death. On some islands in the Caribbean, tourist operators encourage people to feed endangered northern Bahamian rock iguanas with grapes on sticks, beef mince and other human foods. Researchers reported different levels of calcium, cholesterol and various minerals in fed versus unfed populations of the iguanas, as well as diarrhoea, higher levels of glucose and a staggering 100 percent endoparasitic infection rate in the tourist-fed animals. Recently in the UK, a wild pony nearly choked to death when carrots were left for it. Carrots are not a typical part of a wild ponies diet and although the pony has recovered, it could have died.

6. Illegally caught wildlife are often subjected to terrible conditions, physical abuse and even drugging. Thailand's infamous Tiger Temple has been repeatedly shown to punch the tigers as a means of control and use drugs to profit from their 'selfie with a tiger' mentality.

7. Feeding wild animals often results in them being euthanised. U.S. national parks prohibit the feeding of wildlife however in some parks, bears have learned to forage for unattended human food. Rangers relocate these bears away from human food sources yet many return and continue seeking human food-eventually, such problem bears must be euthanised. Being fed from cars can cause bears and other animals to congregate near roads where they may be killed by vehicles - this is especially true for birds. Hanging around roads and parking lots can also make animals such as squirrels, birds and deer easier for predators to catch.

8. Migration to human-populated areas to be fed increases the risk of dog attacks and road accidents - especially for birds, squirrels, raccoons and monkeys.

9. Human food becomes addictive for them because it's often high in fructose & sucrose. This dependency can lead animals to stealing human food and breaking into houses to get it. This is a problem seen in Costa Rica with feeding monkeys bananas. Bananas are not part of their indigenous diet and they become addicted to the fructose.

10. There are times animals cannot be reunited with their own because of human contact. A solitary Bison calf was transported by humans in Yellowstone to a park station. Although the calf was later released into the wild, it was repeatedly rejected by its herd and was endangering itself by approaching people and cars. Park rangers made numerous attempts to reunite the calf with a nearby herd but were unsuccessful and eventually had no option but to euthanize the calf.

11. Pregnant females who are fed human food during their pregnancy will not give birth to healthy infants. The babies will be malnourished or never develop to term and die before birth.

12. It's often illegal to touch and feed wild animals and can result in a hefty fine and even jail time.

If you care about wild animals, please don't feed them.
Add This To Pinterest

Let's spread this message and stop feeding and endangering wild animals. I'd love it if you could add this to your Pinterest board so we can protect animals and keep them healthy.

Teach your children not to approach, touch or feed animals regardless of how cute they appear. Ultimately it will endanger the animal and could lead to its illness or death.

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Animals can look cute and let's face it, who doesn't love a fluffy, cuddly animal? However, this vision of animals has been 'disneyfied' which poses a greater risk to animals' health and wellbeing. If we want to be responsible, we must learn to not feed or touch wild animals. Here's why.

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Indigenous perspectives bring ‘feeling and caring’ into conservation planning

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Earth Day is a time to reflect on protecting the world's increasingly fragile environments. One pathway is through land and wildlife management, using the thoughtful approach of Indigenous knowledge.

That's an idea close to Jared Gonet's heart. As a citizen of the Taku River Tlingit First Nation, the University of Alberta student in the Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences is working with his community and with Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in First Nation in Yukon to earn a PhD in conservation biology. He also holds a master's in wildlife ecology and management.

With a doctoral research focus on finding out how Indigenous and western knowledge can be equal partners in conservation solutions, Gonet shares his thoughts with Folio about why it's vital to include traditional ways of knowing.
What's important about bringing Indigenous perspectives to conservation planning?
If you look at reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the UN environment programme, there's a climate crisis and a biodiversity crisis that intersect. Western frameworks are failing in conservation; we need to start redefining our relationship with the natural world. Generally, Indigenous perspectives see that we are more related to that natural world and that we have an obligation of deep stewardship to the land. When those values come into play, it can bring different outcomes when thinking about conservation.
How can Indigenous perspectives improve the process?
It's about having a different set of values in place that bring feeling and caring into the plan. It's very dry to talk about wildlife or land as resources to be managed or used. From an Indigenous perspective, if I'm creating a conservation plan for caribou, it makes more sense to talk about it as a relationship plan, how you are going to maintain that relationship and your obligation to the animal. That creates a lot more motivation to do what we can to ensure caribou survive.
What excites you about that kind of ground-level approach?
As it creates space at the table for Indigenous people, it can create space for the deep knowledge base within many Indigenous nations, including local knowledge of people who go out on the land and experience it. It also respects reconciliation and resurgence, how Indigenous people have been here in nature since time immemorial, and that we are still here and know how to live with wildlife and the landscape in a healthy way.
How could Indigenous and western practices work side by side in conservation planning?
Ceremony is one important practice. Indigenous nations have different ceremonies, guided by elders. That creates space for the spirituality they hold for the landscape. Western science contributes to knowing how that landscape is doing - for instance, through population surveys and current technologies like soundscape monitoring.
What do you hope to contribute through your PhD work?
Generally, I'd like my research to find places where Indigenous and western knowledges can work together as equal partners to create healthy relationships between ourselves and the non-human world. Yet, as an Indigenous person, I need the way we create those relationships to help Indigenous knowledges resurge and continually recreate and revitalize themselves, as they have been harmed, and continue to be, by practices that are purely western or come from a colonial place.

To support that process, I've been creating questions, methodologies and paths forward with the nations I'm working with, talking with them, and also learning the best thoughts and ideas of Indigenous thinkers in Canada like instructor Leanne Simpson, John Borrows, Shawn Wilson and Max Liboiron, then applying that to my work. And in any work I do, I'll use my research to continue to try to be that voice that brings Indigenous perspectives and world views.

Gonet's studies and research are supported by Environment and Climate Change Canada's South Beringia Priority Place Initiative, Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, Mitacs, Wildlife Conservation Society Canada, Association of Canadian Universities for Northern Studies and a University of Alberta Presidential Distinction Award.
- This article has been edited for length and clarity.

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Indigenous perspectives bring 'feeling and caring' into conservation planning

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Earth Day is a time to reflect on protecting the world's increasingly fragile environments. One pathway is through land and wildlife management, using the thoughtful approach of Indigenous knowledge. That's an idea close to Jared Gonet's heart.

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Indigenous people and nature: a tradition of conservation

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Indigenous people and nature: a tradition of conservation

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In the culture of the Maori people of New Zealand, humans are deeply connected with nature; the two are equal and interdependent, even kin. The idea is reflected in the Maori word ' kaitiakitanga ', which means guarding and protecting the environment in order to respect the ancestors and secure the future.

The Maoris' intimate relationship with their lands and the natural world is shared by many other indigenous peoples around the world, and highlights why these often marginalized groups are gaining recognition as vital stewards of our environment and its fast-depleting resources.

The world's 370 million indigenous people are only 5 per cent of the total population but they officially hold 18 per cent of the land and lay claim to far more. Their home areas across 70 countries from the Arctic to the South Pacific include many of the planet's biodiversity hotspots.

Their traditions and belief systems often mean that they regard nature with deep respect, and they have a strong sense of place and belonging. This sustains knowledge and ways of life that match up well with modern notions of nature conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources.

Unsurprisingly, indigenous peoples have been stout opponents of development imposed from beyond their communities. They defend their lands against illegal encroachments and destructive exploitation, from mega-dams across their rivers to logging and mining in their forests.

That can make them ideal custodians of the landscapes and ecosystems that are also central to efforts to limit climate change and adapt to its effects. But it also makes them targets. Communities who stand up against powerful economic and political interests remain under intense pressure in many parts of the world.

According to the campaigning group Global Witness, 185 people across 16 countries were killed defending their land, forests and rivers against destructive industries in 2015 alone, many of them from indigenous communities.

Among the subsequent victims was Berta Cáceres, a campaigner against the construction of dams in the lands of her native Lenca people in Honduras, who was murdered in March 2016. In December, Cáceres was recognized posthumously with the UN's highest environmental award.

"No one should fear for their life because they call for the Earth's resources to be used carefully and in a way that respects their communities," Erik Solheim, the head of UN Environment, said at the time. "Everyone has the right to stand up for their environment."

After decades of discrimination and neglect, the role indigenous peoples play as custodians of the land and the traditional knowledge that underpins it, is gaining recognition along with their rights to ancestral lands and the resources they contain.

For example, in Canada, this year's host country for World Environment Day, indigenous 'First Nation' communities have in recent years taken back control of an expanse of boreal forest to the east of Lake Winnipeg. Along with the provincial and national governments, the First Nations this year asked UNESCO to recognize the 29,000 square kilometre area, known as Pimachiowin Aki or "The land that gives life", as a World Heritage Site.

Environment Minister Catherine McKenna said in March that creating indigenous protected areas were a way for Canada to meet its goal of conserving 17 per cent of its land by 2020 and also to respond to "the desire of indigenous peoples to determine how best to create healthier, more prosperous communities while protecting their land."

In Kenya, community-led conservation programs such as the Il Ngwesi conservancy in the Laikipia region have succeeded by reserving part of commonly held lands for wildlife, and using them to support eco-tourism ventures. The extra income more than offsets the restrictions on animal herding and increases the resilience of their land.

A report by the World Resources Institute last year identified securing the land rights of indigenous people and other local communities in the Amazon region as a low-cost way to counter global deforestation and climate change.

For example, deforestation rates inside tenured indigenous forests were 2-3 times lower than outside in Bolivia, Brazil and Colombia from 2000-2012. Yet indigenous peoples and communities globally have secured tenure for only a fraction of their lands, the report said.

Many indigenous peoples and local communities "cannot imagine their life divorced from nature and their interest in the sustainable use of resources is strong," said Eva Müller, Director of the Forestry Policy and Resources Division at the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization.

"Empowerment of these groups combined with their knowledge and long-term planning skills is essential to ensure the survival of future generations - of both humans and wildlife," Müller said on this year's World Wildlife Day.

This critical role has not always been acknowledged.

Applying a model rolled out in the United States' famed national parks, indigenous peoples have been excluded from ancestral lands across the planet in the name of protecting nature. Leading conservation groups who backed this approach stand accused of creating millions of " conservation refugees."

Since then, conservationists have come to understand that the landscapes they considered 'wildnerness' have been influenced and protected by local and indigenous communities, and that these groups have useful knowledge on how to manage them.

The rights of indigenous people are now enshrined in documents such as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People, now approaching its 10th anniversary, and reflected in the policies of governments and the strategies of conservation organizations.

Many of those peoples want more say in how to address the environmental challenges that we all face.

"We have been here forever and we know the natural cycle of things," said Maori leader Catherine Davis. "We know when there is a blip, we know when there is a glitch. We know when something is going down in terms of sustainability. So we need to be heard more clearly."

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Indigenous people and nature: a tradition of conservation

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In the culture of the Maori people of New Zealand, humans are deeply connected with nature; the two are equal and interdependent, even kin. The idea is reflected in the Maori word ' kaitiakitanga ', which means guarding and protecting the environment in order to respect the ancestors and secure the future.

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Taking Charge of Your Health & Wellbeing

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Research reveals that environments can increase or reduce our stress, which in turn impacts our bodies. What you are seeing, hearing, experiencing at any moment is changing not only your mood, but how your nervous, endocrine, and immune systems are working.

The stress of an unpleasant environment can cause you to feel anxious, or sad, or helpless. This in turn elevates your blood pressure, heart rate, and muscle tension and suppresses your immune system. A pleasing environment reverses that.

And regardless of age or culture, humans find nature pleasing. In one study cited in the book Healing Gardens, researchers found that more than two-thirds of people choose a natural setting to retreat to when stressed.

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How Does Nature Impact Our Wellbeing? | Taking Charge of Your Health & Wellbeing

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Research reveals that environments can increase or reduce our stress, which in turn impacts our bodies. What you are seeing, hearing, experiencing at any moment is changing not only your mood, but how your nervous, endocrine, and immune systems are working.

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Child and Nature Alliance of Canada - Our Stories

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Child and Nature Alliance of Canada - Our Stories

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Blog - Child and Nature Alliance of Canada

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What is this worm up to?

What is the name of this tree?

Even if we live in the city, nature is still all around us: clouds and stars, trees and flowers, rocks and beaches, birds, reptiles or mammals. What are we waiting for? Let's jump off the couch and begin exploring!

Created in collaboration with a team of Portuguese experts, this book, which won the coveted Bologna Regazzi award, aims to arouse your curiosity about fauna, flora and other aspects of the natural world. It includes suggestions for activities and many illustrations to help the whole family get started, leave the house, and go out to discover - or simply admire - the amazing world that exists outdoors.

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Outside: A Guide to Discovering Nature: Peixe Dias, Maria Ana, Teixeira do Rosario, Ines, Carvalho, Bernardo P.: 9781847807694: Books - Amazon.ca

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Discover the wonderful world of snow with this companion to the celebrated Raindrops Roll !

With gorgeous photo illustrations, award-winning author April Pulley Sayre sheds sparkly new light on the wonders of snow. From the beauty of snow blanketing the forest and falling on animals' fur and feathers to the fascinating winter water cycle, this nonfiction picture book celebrates snowfall and the amazing science behind it.

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Best in Snow: Sayre, April Pulley, Sayre, April Pulley: 9781481459167: Books - Amazon.ca

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In this hands-on math activity, you and your child will create a bird feeder using fruit and cerealthat will make the birds in your neighborhood sing with joy!

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Antlers Forever!: Children's Book Read-Aloud with Phoebe Fox

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(Antlers Forever! )] [Author: Frances Bloxam] [May-2003]: Frances Bloxam: Books - Amazon.ca

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In autumn, a strong wind blows flower seeds high in the air and carries them far across the land. One by one, many of the seeds are lost -- burned by the sun, fallen into the ocean, eaten by a bird. But some survive the long winter and, come spring, sprout into plants, facing new dangers -- trampled by playing children, picked as a gift for a friend. Soon only the tiniest seed remains, growing into a giant flower and, when autumn returns, sending its own seeds into the wind to start the process over again.
Eric Carle's eloquent text and brilliant collages turn the simple life cycle of a plant into an exciting story, a nature lesson, and an inspiring message of the importance of perseverance.

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The Tiny Seed: Carle, Eric, Carle, Eric: 9780689842443: Books - Amazon.ca

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Native American Herbalist's Bible - 10 Books in 1: Create your Green Paradise of Medicinal Plants and Herbal Remedies to Unleash Your Vitality

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Native American Herbalist's Bible - 10 Books in 1: Create your Green Paradise of Medicinal Plants and Herbal Remedies to Unleash Your Vitality

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Native American Herbalist’s Bible - 10 Books in 1: Create your Green Paradise of Medicinal Plants and Herbal Remedies to Unleash Your Vitality

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Native American Herbalist’s Bible - 10 Books in 1: Create your Green Paradise of Medicinal Plants and Herbal Remedies to Unleash Your Vitality: Ahusaka, Lomasi: 9798835925711: Books - Amazon.ca

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The Big Book of Nature Activities: A Year-Round Guide to Outdoor Learning

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The Big Book of Nature Activities: A Year-Round Guide to Outdoor Learning

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The Big Book of Nature Activities is a comprehensive guide for parents and educators to help youth of all ages explore, appreciate and connect with the natural world. This rich, fully illustrated compendium is is packed with crafts, stories, information and inspiration to make outdoor learning fun!

The Big Book of Nature Activities features:

Nature-based skills and activities such as species identification, photography, journaling and the judicious use of digital technology

Ideas, games and activities grounded in what's happening in nature each season

Core concepts that promote environmental literacy, such as climate change and the mechanisms and wonder of evolution, explained using a child-friendly, engaging approach

Lists of key species and happenings to observe throughout the year across most of North America
Perfect for families, educators, and youth leaders wanting to help children connect with nature!

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The Big Book of Nature Activities: A Year-Round Guide to Outdoor Learning

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The Big Book of Nature Activities: A Year-Round Guide to Outdoor Learning : Rodenburg, Dr. Jacob, Monkman, Drew: Amazon.ca: Books