At Kindertown, the neighborhood and the special places and spaces surrounding us have become key aspects of our evolving pedagogical approach and curriculum. From waterfalls, parks and urban centers, K-Town kids get to experience the local through their own eyes, as well as that of their peers and educators. One of our favorite places to explore, learn and engage in is the Eramosa Karst.

Full of caves, valley and forest, Eramosa is full of adventure and opportunities for children to think about the world around them. Our Tweenie classroom has, from time to time, been know to pack up and trek into the woods to get a sense of what to expect next year. However, for the most part, exploration of this local wonder happens in our preschool classrooms. Within the first few weeks of September, our preschooler’s are off to familiarize themselves with the various sights, smells and sounds of the Karst. Typically, this involves scavenger hunts, map-making and the collection of local artifacts - many of which we bring into the classroom to dissect, investigate and analyze. These weekly explorations unfold up until the first snowfall - when it’s simply too difficult to make the long hike. However, once spring has sprung, our group is back at it, observing the return of birds and bubbling creeks.

The Eramosa Karst is our living laboratory. The falling leaves, frozen creeks and budding trees, the Karst is a breathing experiential provocation - a local space that inspires us, gives us pause, and opens our imaginations. From these adventures, we have been able to discuss larger, broad concepts. These can range from climate change, animal behavior, bridge making and much, much more. Of course, this sounds like a lot for preschoolers, but our educators work hard to break down these large concepts into playful activities and lessons that support and uphold the real world experiences found in the Karst.

By providing K-Towner’s with these regular adventures, we hope they learn to appreciate the fresh air, our environment, and allow their bodies and imagination to run wild.