Let’s Talk Outdoors

In this episode of Let's Talk Outdoors, Leah chats with Monique Strachan, the Executive Director of the Saskatchewan Camps Association (SCA). They discuss the benefits of summer camp for children and people of all ages, how to choose a camp, and the resources available through the SCA to help families find the right camp and access financial support.

In this episode of Let's Talk Outdoors, Dr. Marcia McKenzie (PhD), Professor and Associate Dean of Sustainability in the Faculty of Education at the University of Melbourne, discusses quality climate education, the importance of action, and how early life outdoor experiences can inspire a career. She shares her experiences in outdoor education, critical pedagogy, and integrating Indigenous perspectives into education.

Join Leah and Justine on this episode of Let's Talk Outdoors as they chat with with Denise Skuce, an experienced educator for outdoor play, who shares her deep passion for connecting children with nature. Drawing from her 30 years of experience, Denise highlights the benefits of outdoor and forest school play, emphasizing its role in fostering exploration, resilience, and a connection to the environment. She discusses how educators can incorporate nature-based activities into their practice, the importance of risky play, and the value of being outside in all weather conditions.  Denise also touches on the role of Indigenous ways of knowing and offers practical advice for overcoming barriers to outdoor education, including proper gear and the willingness to step outside comfort zones.

In this episode of Let's Talk Outdoors, Jennifer MacDonald, a non-Indigenous Canadian educator, discusses her journey into outdoor education. She shares her experiences from childhood to teaching, emphasizing the importance of connecting with the natural world and integrating treaty education into outdoor experiences. Jennifer also touches on narrative mapping and the challenges and successes she's encountered in her career.

Join Leah and Justine on this episode of Let’s Talk Outdoors as they chat with Kristen Simonson, a passionate outdoor and environmental educator from Swift Current, Saskatchewan. Kristen is the founder of Sage Creek Prairie School, where she brings land-based learning to life. She shares insights on bushcraft skills, reconciliation, and creating outdoor experiences for learners of all ages, while inspiring curiosity, connection to nature, and stewardship of the land.