Forest Friends Outdoor Learning is a nature-based preschool program designed to cultivate children's deep appreciation for the natural world
We believe in fostering physical literacy, curiosity, and meaningful friendships in a calm, nurturing, and fun class environment. Each day, our little group of knee-high naturalists embarks on an outdoor adventure, designed in inquiry-based learning to build resilience and nurture social-emotional development. Nature is our playground, and each day brings us a unique experience that sparks scientific thinking, curiosity, and play!
We keep our classes small and our educators consistent, to ensure that every child feels seen, supported, and encouraged to explore their learning potential. Our small team of familiar teachers have decades of experience in personalized childcare, while fostering a love for nature, and a love of learning!
Each day is a new adventure, where we explore the different habitats at Jericho Beach Park. Rain or shine, we enjoy every season of what our beautiful home has to offer! Together, we use our senses to immerse ourselves in the wild spaces around us, uncovering the wonders of nature – from pollinators to pinnipeds! Through movement, art, music, and storytelling, we help create connections with the nature and let the kids do what they do best: play!
Forest Friends Outdoor Learning is committed to learning from, growing with, and protecting the unique temperate rainforests we call home. We are grateful to explore such a magical classroom nestled here on the Pacific coast. As experienced environmental educators, Forest Friends Outdoor Learning works with Vancouver Parks to promote environmental stewardship in these ecologically sensitive habitats. We acknowledge the indigenous Coast Salish Peoples, including the xwməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), Stó:lō, and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, on whose unceded territory we play, learn, and live. We prioritize Leave No Trace practices and strict safety protocols to always ensure a safe and enjoyable learning experience in nature.
Rest assured, Forest Friends Outdoor Learning is fully insured, and permitted by the Vancouver Parks Board. Let’s embark on this journey together, celebrating the beauty of nature and fostering a love of learning that will last a lifetime!
Tanner Gresham, Lead Educator and Director
Growing up on the shores of Lake Huron, I somehow was captivated by cheetahs as a preschooler! This early fascination with animals blossomed into a profound love and respect for all living creatures, leading me to pursue degrees in zoology and environmental studies. Throughout my journey, I have traveled around the world, from New Orleans to Boston and even Namibia, inspiring care and curiosity for nature in classrooms, aquariums, and natural history museums. Advocating for diverse creatures, I sought to spread knowledge and dispel fears about the natural world.
My goal is to provide others with positive experiences connecting with nature, starting early in life. Over ten years ago, I began teaching in forest preschool programs at the Massachusetts Audubon Society's Boston Nature Center. Now, I'm thrilled to continue my journey within this pedagogy here in Vancouver. There's nothing quite like exploring the outdoors with children - it brings me so much joy to help little ones build a solid foundation of cherished memories exploring the great outdoors!
QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor of Arts in Geography with a concentration in Environmental Studies
Associates of Science in Zoology
Emergency Child Care First Aid & CPR certification
Wilderness First Aid Training
12 years of experience as a nature-based STEM educator
Extensive experience teaching and caring for toddlers and children in classrooms, daycares, and homes
Luke McSherry, Lead Educator
Luke has an extensive background as a childcare provider, leading educational childcare programs for youth aged 2-17 across the province. Whether it's organizing forest outings, month-long canoe trips in the Yukon, or sharing and singing a musical beat, Luke's programs are all about nurturing a profound sense of wonder for the natural world. Holding a diploma in Counseling, Luke specialized in understanding the influence of environment and arts within educational settings. By integrating music, play, and creative elements into his programming, Luke empowers and encourages students to become fully engaged learners.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Professional Counsellor Diploma from Rhodes Wellness College
Emergency Child Care First Aid & CPR certification
Certified Responsible Adult
Extensive experience in caring for youths in classrooms, camps, preschools, and homes