An entirely outdoor, small group ratio, year-round program designed for 3-5 year olds located at beautiful Trout Lake in East Vancouver. Monday to Friday, 9am-2pm.

Seasonal Classes

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A day in the life at Sunhouse

Each student’s journey is thoughtfully guided by experienced educators who emphasize social, emotional, and developmental growth. We foster a close-knit community where children are encouraged to lead, create, and connect with nature as they build the skills needed for tomorrow.

Program Considerations

What does my child do each day?

Each day at Sunhouse Outdoor Academy offers a seamless blend of exploration, play, and discovery in nature. As students make their way around the park, often completing a full circuit of the lake, they pause under trees or in open grassy areas to engage in hands-on activities, nature-inspired workbook exercises, and shared snack breaks.

The journey incorporates natural physical activities like running games, balancing on logs, and exploring hidden corners of the environment. Child-led group play encourages collaboration, creativity, and connection, while quiet moments of curiosity balance the day. This thoughtfully crafted experience allows children to thrive at their own pace, immersed in the beauty and wonder of the outdoors.

Weekly Child Progress & Highlights

Each week, parents receive a detailed update highlighting their child’s progress, personal growth, and unique moments at Sunhouse Outdoor Academy. This personalized report includes photos and videos, capturing their child’s exploration, social interactions, and creative achievements 

What should I pack each day?

Each child needs a size-appropriate backpack to carry all their essentials for a comfortable and enjoyable day. This includes a lunchbox with enough food for two snack breaks, with a sturdy, reusable water bottle. Don’t forget a spare pair of pants or underwear for accidents, as well as seasonal items like mittens and a warm hat for winter or sunscreen for summer. With these items, your child will be ready for a full day of outdoor exploration and fun!

The Benefits of Outdoor Education

  • Enhanced Physical Development

    Nature-based activities like climbing, running, and balancing help children build strength, coordination, and gross motor skills. Fine motor skills are nurtured through hands-on experiences such as collecting natural objects, drawing in the dirt, or planting seeds.

  • Boosted Cognitive and Emotional Growth

    Exploring the outdoors sparks curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Nature provides a calming environment that reduces stress and promotes emotional resilience, helping children learn to regulate their feelings and develop a strong sense of self.

  • Improved Social Skills

    Collaborative play in natural settings encourages teamwork, communication, and empathy. Children learn to work together, resolve conflicts, and develop meaningful relationships—all while having fun and exploring their surroundings.

  • A Lifelong Connection to the Environment

    Early exposure to nature fosters a love and respect for the environment. Through hands-on experiences, children develop an understanding of sustainability, biodiversity, and natural cycles, laying the foundation for a lifelong appreciation of the world around them

How our families feel

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"I can’t say enough great things about Sunhouse’s outdoor program for children ages 3-5. My 4-year-old son absolutely thrives here, and every day he comes home beaming with excitement, ready to share his adventures. From the moment we enrolled, I knew this was the perfect fit for our family. The instructors are warm, knowledgeable, and truly passionate about fostering a love of nature in the kids. They create a safe, nurturing environment where children feel empowered to explore, learn, and connect with the natural world. My son has gained so much confidence and independence through this program. Whether it’s building stick forts, identifying bugs, or splashing in muddy puddles, he’s constantly learning through hands-on experiences. He’s developed incredible problem-solving skills, creativity, and an understanding of teamwork all while having the time of his life."

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"We’ve had the most wonderful experience with Sunhouse Outdoor Academy for both of our children, our 3-year-old and our 5-year-old. What’s truly incredible about this program is how well it fits both of their unique personalities, despite having very different interests. Our 5-year-old loves exploring and getting her hands dirty, while our 3-year-old is more reserved and enjoys quieter, imaginative play. Sunhouse has found the perfect balance for both of them. The outdoor setting allows them to connect with nature in their own ways, and the variety of activities keeps them both engaged and excited to come back every day. We’ve seen such a positive shift in their overall demeanor. They’re much calmer and happier children since starting at Sunhouse, and getting them up and ready in the morning has become so much easier! It’s clear that the program has brought out the best in them. They wake up excited to go, and their excitement only grows when they share what they’ve learned and done at the end of each day."

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"Sunhouse Outdoor Academy has been an absolute dream for our family and our 5-year-old daughter. Operating out of the beautiful Trout Lake area, this outdoor program is the perfect combination of adventure, learning, and fun for kids ages 3-5. From day one, our daughter fell in love with everything about this program, the incredible instructors, the engaging activities, and, of course, the magical outdoor setting. She’s constantly telling us stories about building forts, playing with her friends she adores, playing imaginative games, and learning all about the natural world around her. The only challenge we’ve had is getting her to leave at the end of the day! She loves it so much that we’ve actually requested longer hours because she never wants the fun to end. It’s such a joy to see her coming home tired but happy, covered in mud and full of excitement about what she’s learned and explored that day."