Outdoor Education Programs

For over 100 years, the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka has offered outdoor education programs to the community. We believe that connecting with nature is an important part of building a child’s self-confidence, sparking curiosity, and improving their mental and physical wellness. We have various outdoor education programs available for a variety of ages – find the one that’s right for your child below!

Grade 4 Science Program with the Simcoe County District School Board (SCDSB)

The Grade 4 Science Program is aimed at delivering engaging, comprehensive, and experiential programming on the topic of ecosystems and animal habitats. Students will explore the components of a healthy habitat, animal adaptations, and human impact on the natural world. Upon completion of their 100-minute lesson, teachers will receive a variety of digital resources to help further student learning. These resources include, but are not limited to, a custom-made workbook prepared by YMCA Outdoor Education Staff, links to applicable citizen science programs, and access to further learning resources.

Homeschool Forest Explorers Drop-Off Day/Showcase

We’re excited to introduce our newest children’s program, Homeschool Forest Explorers! The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka’s Homeschool Forest Explorers Drop-Off Day/Showcase is a great opportunity for kids and families to trial run our outdoor education homeschool program starting in January 2025!

• Date: Wednesday, December 18 from 10:30am-1:30pm
• Cost: $30 per participant
• 16 spots available
• Click here to register!

Homeschool Forest Explorers 5-Week Program

We’re excited to introduce our newest children’s program, Homeschool Forest Explorers! Join us for a 5-week program where children will learn about and explore the outdoors.

• Date: Wednesdays from 10am-2:30pm, starting January 15 until February 12
• Cost: $250 per participant
• 12 spots available
• Registration opens on December 14 through the YMCA Online Portal

Wilderness Explorers PA Day Programs – Innisfil & Wasaga Beach YMCA

The YMCA offers full-day programming on PA and school break days. The PA Day programming is designed to help your busy family manage school PA Days. Children will explore the great outdoors through scavenger hunts, animal tracking, and explorer themed group games, and get to make new friends! Camp will take place outside so please dress appropriately for all weather conditions. (Indoor) Swimming is often on our list of daily activities, so come ready to take a dip in the pool! Campers will need to pack a swimsuit and towel. Please also provide a lunch and snacks (please no products that may contain nuts), and refillable water bottle.

The PA Day Program will run from 9-4pm. Register through the YMCA Online Portal.

Please note, this program is only offered at the Innisfil and Wasaga Beach YMCA Health, Fitness & Aquatics centres.

Escape in the Landscape

The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka’s Escape in the Landscape program o­ffers nature immersion activities for children in junior kindergarten to 14 years of age, using experiential and peer-to-peer learning and storytelling, rooted in observation of nature and learning lessons from plants, animals, and natural systems. Children will learn about their environment, sustainable practices, and how to be environmental caretakers. The winter program explores how animals adapt, hibernate, and migrate. Children will explore what happens when the world freezes and how we can still enjoy nature’s beauty during the cold season

During this memorable program, your child will:

• Learn about the land and how to be environmental caretakers
• Connect with nature and build self-confidence
• Improve their mental and physical health
• Be curious, resilient, and motivated to make a difference

Click on your child’s age group below to view locations, dates, and more information. Registration opens on December 14 through the YMCA Online Portal.