About

Outdoor play is more than just fun – it helps children grow, learn, and connect with nature! But some children don’t get enough chances to play and explore outside.

That’s why we’re working with the Richmond School District (RSD) through the Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) program to make OPAL a regular and meaningful part of school life.

Through OPAL, children get to explore, discover, and use their creativity while learning outside. We want every child to enjoy nature, develop valuable skills, and feel empowered to advocate for a healthier planet.

As part of this study, we want to understand how OPAL is currently happening in RSD elementary schools and how we can make it a regular and meaningful part of school life. We’re inviting teachers, school staff, students, and families from the RSD community to share their thoughts in surveys and interviews. Their ideas will help us improve the OPAL program and make sure it is effective for each school.

The OPAL 1.0 study has four specific objectives:

1. Build and strengthen our relationship with the RSD community and the collaboration team;
2. Analyze factors that influence opportunities for OPAL in the RSD elementary schools;
3. Co-design the OPAL program that addresses the unique needs of the RSD elementary schools; and,
4. Develop a funding proposal to implement and evaluate the OPAL program in the RSD elementary schools.

We are excited to be working closely with the RSD community and our advisory committee on this important work!

More about the OPAL program:

Our OPAL program is designed to promote play and learning in outdoor school settings, which includes four main components: 1) identifying values and adapting policies, 2) training and mentoring educators, 3) engaging with families, and 4) modifying the outdoor space.

Funding information

Generously supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research 2025-2026

Publications & Resources

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