Autumn Saplings
NEW for the 2025-26 school year!
Homeschool Learning Pod

General Information
The Autumn Saplings Homeschool Learning Pod is a mixed-age, drop-off program for learners ages 5–8 (Kindergarten to Grade 3). We meet on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM *extended hours available*.
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Each week, children engage in a blend of literacy and numeracy activities, hands-on projects, and inquiry-based learning. The program is designed to support both academic growth and the social-emotional development of each child.
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Through play, exploration, and collaboration, learners build meaningful connections with one another and with the natural world. Our learning is grounded in curiosity, creativity, and joyful discovery.
Guiding Resources & Daily Flow
Our learning pod is a child-led, emergent program rooted in curiosity, creativity, and connection. As a certified teacher, I draw on a variety of high-quality resources and curricula to support skill development in a responsive, engaging way. While the learning is interest-driven, it is also thoughtfully guided.
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I reference the Alberta Education curriculum to stay aligned with age-appropriate topics, and I use a combination of trusted programs, including Logic of English, UFLI, and rich children’s literature to support literacy growth. For numeracy, I draw from both Jump Math and Math-U-See, tailoring activities to meet each learner’s needs.
A Typical Day Includes:
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Two organized learning activities – one in the morning, one in the afternoon
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Time for free play, with thoughtful materials and open-ended provocations
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Group projects and collaborative problem-solving
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One guest speaker or special experience each month, typically on Wednesdays
What To Bring:
DAILY
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Backpack
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Water bottle
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Packed lunch (mid morning and afternoon snacks provided)
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Change of clothes
*Please dress for mess and adventure — play clothes are encouraged!
*Please do NOT bring toys from home! We have everything we need here. We will have show and tell opportunities for kids to occasionally bring in something special!
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SEASONAL
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Bug spray
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Sunscreen
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Hat (ball cap/toque as necessary)
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WINTER: waterproof footwear and gloves are a MUST; clothing for layers
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SPRING: waterproof footwear is a MUST; consider spring waterproof gloves or rain shell
Upcoming Special Events
Each month we will host a special event/guest speaker experience. Take a look at what we have to look forward to!
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SEPTEMBER: Ann & Sandy Cross Family Field Trip
OCTOBER: Mad Science Workshop
NOVEMBER: Calgary Reptile
DECEMBER: Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society