An Interview with Paulina Retamales, Coordinator and Educator for Sierra Club Canada Foundation
Can you tell us a bit about Wild Child?
Wild Child is an educational and outreach program started in PEI and Nova Scotia in 2010. It began with a group of volunteers interested in helping their families connect more with nature. In 2019, the program expanded to Alberta.
What is Wild Child?
Wild Child is a child-led inquiry-based program where kids can explore freely in different urban pockets close to home.
What is your favourite part of the program?
My favourite part is seeing the growth in the children. Sometimes, some kids start timid and unsure of how to explore nature, but after a couple of visits, they begin to feel comfortable. We see the children develop leadership skills and increase their wonder about their surroundings. I love how this program nurtures children’s innate interest in nature.
What is the importance of trails to this program?
Trails create access and a journey to our classroom in a natural urban pocket. The trails are a learning opportunity to connect with walkers, cyclists, dogs, and our community.
What does nature provide for children?
Nature allows children to learn about themselves and their surroundings in all seasons. It’s an experiential experience that goes beyond what can be known from a book.
For more information on Wild Child Edmonton, go to their website: https://wildchildedmonton.wordpress.com