The element of surprise is something that is often fleeting, pouncing upon us suddenly and then vanishing quick as a wink. But that first moment of wonder is so energizing and intriguing we absolutely crave it. After observing our children in the Eagle class explore cardboard boxes of all shapes and sizes,  I am slowly…Continue reading →

Nothing like a pandemic to slow one down! Like all of you, our lives here at TNNS have changed. We miss doing a lot of things we normally do, like chatting with parents in closer proximity with no masks and more frequency. We long to cook together, using veggies from the garden and introducing children…Continue reading →

These dear Owls have been so brave- some only coming twice per week and yet leaping into this outdoor world with vigor, interest and fortitude! Slowly we are introducing tools such as magnifying glasses, binoculars, and sports equipment. A few weeks ago we had an ‘aha’ moment as a team. A rake was used improperly…Continue reading →

Eagle time- a little of this, a little of that- some snapshots of large and small groups in the Eagle class this week. We had wind, sun, and rain. Relationships develop more each week- with each other and with this beautiful land. We head into this weekend with full hearts. With gratitude, Emily

Well, it means a lot. Being a preschooler is no easy task. It requires a large skill set that encompasses skills in many different areas. The work of a 3 or 4 year old is complex, energizing and tiring. As adults, we often think of children just joyfully going about their day, everything being fun…Continue reading →

Our school year, like our world, is looking and feeling different this year. People living near and far have been focusing a lot on what has changed and what is the ‘new normal’; all of these changes speak to the ever changing nature of our planet and our lives. It speaks to the vulnerability we…Continue reading →

Over the last three months we have missed our preschool children dearly! We always cherish the closing months of the school year, mostly outside amidst the warm spring air and blossoms, soaking up every moment of being together. It is a time of joy, layered with some sadness, as we bid farewell to children heading…Continue reading →

As many of us are currently feeling from recent events, our hearts and minds are wounded and hurting.  It is hard to wrap our heads around the fact that such atrocities as George Floyd’s death are still happening. Over the past few weeks we have been writing blog posts highlighting our TNNS guiding principles, and…Continue reading →

This building has been home to many people over the years.   We have been so privileged to meet some of them, to hear their stories, and to add our own stories of Terra Nova Nature School, to this very special place. The Edwardian Cottage, built in 1908, has several architectural features typical of the…Continue reading →

‘May is Child Care Month’ in British Columbia. Now, more than ever before, it is important to reflect upon the essential role Early Childhood Educators play in the well-being and function of our society. In celebration of the hard work and commitment of Early Childhood Educators,  we present and honour all the amazing TNNS preschool…Continue reading →

A Monday morning in October: E: So, what did you do this weekend? J: I went out for dinner with my family E: That sounds nice- where did you go? J: I don’t know but it was a restaurant and I was mad because I wanted to order salad but I couldn’t! E: Oh!  It is…Continue reading →

As promised, we are continuing to look at our Guiding Principles, with the intention of sharing principles that guide us at school and hopefully you at home, as you support your child’s learning each day. Last week we explored the concept of place-based education and today we look at something that sounds the same, play-based…Continue reading →

TNNS Offerings: Partners in Education Whether your children are preschoolers or school-age, in light of the changes to our lives and activities, a lot of families are asking about curriculum: what do teachers teach, and how? What should children be learning, and why? How do children learn?  These are excellent, big questions that are both…Continue reading →

Look closely! Can you see something camouflaged in the gravel? I made a story basket with Little Nutbrown Hare! Now Little Nutbrown Hare has found a basket too! Sometimes, at Nature School, we would sit on the stumps and look closely at something together.  Even though we are all looking from home, I imagined what…Continue reading →

In this time of confusion and turmoil, we must stay positive, focused and attentive to all that is good. Pay attention to the new buds, the unfolding blossoms, the songs of birds, the change in the air, and the growth and development of our children. Enjoy these photos, may they bring light to your day….Continue reading →