Registration

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To be considered a nature-based preschool, nature must be at the heart of the program. While nature preschools have the same child development goals as any other high-quality preschool, the curriculum and educators achieve these developmental goals through nature-based experiences. At our nature-based program this means that children are spending a majority of their time outside every day, experiencing and connecting with the natural world around them, learning through hands-on experiences and activities that provide daily opportunities for personal growth and achievement. We say that our children learn with nature, through nature, and in nature. 

Yes! We believe in the value of outdoor play in all weather! In rare instances of severe weather, including thunderstorms, heavy rain, heavy snow, strong winds and severe temperatures, our beautiful indoor learning space is always available. 

AFNS educators hold one or more professional designations, including, Registered Early Childhood Educator and/or Ontario Certified Teacher, and/or certified Forest School Practitioner. All of our educators have extensive experience working in early year’s and nature based programs and have a passion for teaching and learning in the outdoors.

AFNS operates from Monday to Friday, with regular program hours spanning from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Additionally, our extended day program is available from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm. We provide year-round services, with a few exceptions outlined below:

Closure Dates:

• We are closed for the following holidays: New Year's Day, Family Day, Good Friday, Victoria Day, Canada Day, Civic Holiday, Labour Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and for approximately one week between Christmas and New Years Day. 
• We close at 12:30pm on a quarterly basis for program upkeep. 
• Specific dates will be announced well in advance of the closure. 

After submitting your waitlist form to AFNS, you can expect to receive a confirmation email within one week. When a spot becomes available for your child, we'll schedule an appointment for an initial tour of the center and to review the enrollment paperwork with you. Children must accompany their parents on the tour. Following the tour, we'll send you an application form along with further instructions to complete the enrollment process.