Our child care programs, summer camp, and forest school are child-centered and inquiry based.
About the program
Forest School Program Details
Recreational Programs
- Half-day programs for children ages 3-6
- Full-day programs for children ages 4-8
Winter 2024-2025
- Mondays and Fridays
- Half-day (9 AM-12 PM) or Full-day (9 AM-3 PM)
- Winter sessions start Monday, December 2, 2024
Spring 2025
- Thursdays and Fridays
- Half-day (9 AM-12 PM) or Full-day (9 AM-3 PM)
- Spring sessions start Friday, March 21, 2025
Fall 2025
- Thursdays and Fridays
- Half-day (9 AM-12 PM) or Full-day (9 AM-3 PM)
- Fall sessions start Thursday, September 18, 2025
Winter 2025-2026
- Thursdays and Fridays
- Half-day (9 AM-12 PM) or Full-day (9 AM-3 PM)
- Winter sessions start Thursday, December 11, 2025
NEW: Family Drop-In Sessions
- For children ages 0-3 accompanied by an adult caregiver
- Mondays (Spring Session: March 17-June 9)
- 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
White Pines Forest School
Where children are free to create adventures while exploring in nature.
White Pines Forest School is a recreational program located on the grounds of Kettleby Valley Camp, with access to 60 acres of woodland. Guided by the recommendations of Forest School Canada, our programs support learning experiences which are inspired by children’s curiosity and inquiry.
Forest School Program Benefits
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Language and communication skills
- Concentration and self-regulation
- Physical and social skills
- Risk navigation
Environmental conservation, stewardship, and ‘Risky play’ are key themes.
A 'Typical' Day
Each new day is a unique experience.
Days unfold naturally. The group might test their balance on fallen logs, or try catching tadpoles in the stream.
Each day begins and ends with a group gathering for songs, stories, and sharing forest experiences.
White Pines Forest School Program Fees
We offer 3 terms (Fall, Winter, and Spring). Each term consists of 11 sessions.
AM Program
Thursday
9 AM - 12 PM
Ages 3 to 6 years
Friday
9 AM - 12 PM
Ages 3 to 6 years
Monday (Family Drop-In Sessions)
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Ages 0 to 3 years
Full Day Program
Thursday
9 AM - 3 PM
Ages 4 to 8 years
Friday
9 AM - 3 PM
Ages 4 to 8 years
$50 registration fee. Programs will not operate on the following days: Thanksgiving Day, Winter holidays (YRDSB Calendar), Family Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Victoria Day
Our Team
Nicole
RECE, Forest School Practitioner, Camp & Outdoor Education Coordinator
Nicole champions and teaches environmental stewardship. You might find her hugging a tree, following animal tracks, or exploring forest trails with her horse.
Neelam
RECE, Camp & Outdoor Education Facilitator
Neelam loves the outdoors and helping children connect with nature, especially through bird watching and active play (like rolling down hills).
Testimonials
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D. Fedrigoni
Nicole and Joe truly understand kids and put so much thought and care into each session. My son absolutely loves the program.
E. Izzo
White Pines Forest School is the program I have been hoping to find for my daughter since she was born! She spends the day outside learning from nature with her friends and two amazing educators who have so much knowledge and passion to share. I would HIGHLY recommend Forest School to anyone and everyone!
J. Mitchell
Our boys love their nature school experience! Nicole and Joe are amazing!! We cannot wait to sign up for the winter term. An experience they will never forget.
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S. Masson
My daughter looks forward to spending her Fridays at Forest School with Nicole, Joe, and all her friends! She talks about it all week long! They have a great program with amazing educators! Highly recommend!
N. Statuto
Would absolutely recommend White Pines Forest School.
Other Programs We Offer
Childcare Centres
Safe, nurturing, engaging learning and care for Infants, Toddlers, Preschool and Nursery school
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3 months to Kindergarten
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Monday to Friday | 7 AM - 6 PM
Before and After School Programs
Give your children a fun, safe start and finish to their day.
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Kindergarten and up to Grade 6
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Monday to Friday | 7 AM - 6 PM
Summer Camp
Our summer camps provide a balance of planned activities and child-directed fun.
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For ages 4 to 12
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Monday to Friday: 9 AM - 4 PM
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Extended care: 7 AM - 6 PM