How do I register?
We are now using a new registration system that you may already be familiar with: Amilia! If you already have an account, registration will be a breeze! If not, create your account on the Set up your Personal Account page. For help with registration, see the How to Make a Purchase from an Organization page. Once you’ve registered, you’ll need to download the Amilia mobile application to view the details of your purchases and modify them, if needed. For help, visit the How to use the Amilia app page.
How do I prepare my child for the activity?
The Parents’ Handbook contains a wealth of information about schedules and meeting points, as well as advice on what you should put in your child’s packsack for the day.
DOWNLOAD THE PARENT HANDBOOK 2024
Today’s children are spending less and less time outdoors and in nature, and are suffering the inevitable consequences on their health and well-being. National educational programs in countries such as Denmark, Sweden and the United Kingdom have shown that regular contact with nature improves children’s motivation, concentration, motor skills, health, self-confidence and social skills.
We also focus on the benefits of nature for young people in Canada; our health professionals launched parkprescriptions.ca to promote the health benefits of spending time in nature.
The Forest School movement has taken root thanks to initiatives by parents and associations such as Child & Nature Alliance of Canada and Forest School Canada. Closer to home, daycare services have also adopted this approach by supporting the implementation of the Alex-éducation par la nature project. This teaching method aims to provide an immersive experience that allows children to develop strong emotional ties to their local natural environment and a healthy lifestyle, while fostering their overall development.
The many studies done on this approach highlight the importance of such issues as:
- Creating an affective link with nature
- Exposing children in urban areas to nature
- Introducing children to nature from a very early age
- The importance of daily contact with local nature
- The importance of having a chaperone to facilitate the experience and make links with the broader natural world
- The role of families
- Parents’ fear of leaving children alone in nature
- The link between nature and health
Les Amis de la montagne’s Forest School on the Mountain seeks to create links between children, nature and Mount Royal. Young members take their first step towards becoming the next generation of mountain custodians as they learn about the natural environment through the seasons and in all weather.
Depending on the age of your child, you can accompany them as they discover Mount Royal or leave them with our experienced educators so that they can enjoy nature throughout the season and become familiar with the mountain’s fauna and flora.
Are activities adapted for children or families who do not speak French?
The activities are offered in French, but our educators will be happy to answer your questions in English.
Can I bring my stroller to the weekend family activity?
Yes, but you might be limited in your movements with the group. We recommend you use a baby carrier, if possible.
Do you offer nature activities customized for organized youth groups?
Yes. For more information, consult our Children's Groups page for details.
Do you offer activities for school groups?
Yes. Les Amis de la montagne offers a wide variety of educational and recreational activities for school groups. For more information, consult our During the School Year page for details.
