Written by: Natalie Hill & Jackie King

Photography by: Natalie Hill

Maitland River - a major freshwater river system in southwestern Ontario that feeds into various wetland ecosystems

Wetland ecosystems are vital to Canada’s environment, providing essential services such as water filtration, flood control, and habitat for diverse species. However, these ecosystems face significant threats, particularly from climate change, which exacerbates issues like habitat loss, increased temperatures, and changes in precipitation patterns (Government of Canada, 2024). 

Recognising the importance of wetlands, the Government of Canada has made some efforts to integrate wetland education into the kindergarten curriculum. However, these efforts are not yet comprehensive. For example, in Ontario, outdoor education is often used primarily to support the main learning objectives for this age group rather than focusing directly on environmental education. In many cases, opportunities for learning about the environment are limited to examples or supplementary text (Environmental Education, 2017). While these initiatives are a step in the right direction, there is a need for more dedicated and immersive environmental education programs to ensure young learners develop a robust understanding of wetland ecosystems and climate change.

Maitland River - a major freshwater river system in southwestern Ontario that feeds into various wetland ecosystems

Many local conservation authorities throughout the country have programs that nearby schools can opt into that promote early education about wetland environments and climate change. Tracy Potter, former educational coordinator at Wawanosh Conservation Area in Southwestern Ontario, discusses a program created for students:

“When having the luxury of living in a region with such well-preserved examples of wetlands and watersheds, along one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world; it would be a shame to see that go to waste!” Tracy explained. “It is incredibly important for our youth to understand the inner workings of our environment for future conservation of precious resources, such as wetlands”. Tracy noted that many local public and private schools would bring their kindergarten students to the conservation center on afternoon excursions. “During my time there, it was an excellent way to kickstart the important conversations of conservation of our regions. The kids would also have a blast as it was a break from the classroom”. 

Outside of traditional kindergarten programs in Canada, alternatives such as forest and nature schools have begun to gain popularity. These programs immerse young children in natural settings, promoting experiential learning and a deeper connection with the environment by emulating a Reggio Emilia approach. By spending significant time outdoors, children in these schools develop a strong bond with nature, enhancing their understanding of ecosystems and the importance of conservation from an early age.                                                          

References: 

 

Canada, Environment and Climate Change. “Government of Canada.” Canada.CaGovernment of Canada, 2016, 

www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/water-overview/sources/wetlands.html

 

Hill, N. (2024, May 22). Personal Interview  Ministry of Education Ontario. 

“Environmental Education: Scope and Sequence of  Expectations.The Ontario Curriculum Grade 1-8 and The Kindergarten Program2017, 

www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/curriculum/elementary/environmental_ed_kto8_eng.pdf

 

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