Research

“Over the past 60 years we have witnessed in our culture a continuous, gradual, but ultimately dramatic decline in children’s opportunities to play freely, without adult control. Over the same 60 years we have witnessed a continuous, gradual, but ultimately dramatic increase in all sorts of childhood mental disorders, especially emotional disorders”. - Dr. Peter Gray

Our YMCA curriculum is based on the latest and most informed research in the area of Early Childhood Education. We have been lucky enough to partner with some of the greatest minds in the field to establish our training and curriculum, including Dr. Beverlie Dietz, Dr. Mariana Brussoni and Early Childhood Education professors from across the country.

Research in outdoor play and pedagogy is a growing field with amazing impact on the health and wellbeing of children in Scotland, Australia and across Europe. As the largest child care provider in Canada, we are thrilled to contribute to the growing body of research nationally.

3- Lawson Foundation Outdoor Play Strategy.png

4- Position Statement on Active Outdoor Play.png

A common vision for increasing physical activity and reducing sedentary living in Canada.png

Why outdoor spaces should be part of every early learning program.png

A Canadian Perspective of Outdoor and Nature-based learning.png