Parks and People

Connecting Children with Nature

About the Parks and People Program

The Parks and People program is a national granting initiative established jointly by Nature Canada and the Parks Canada Agency. Its goal: to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. Each year, the Parks and People program introduces tens of thousands of young people across Canada to nature through learning experiences offered by passionate naturalists in Canada’s natural parks.

From Awareness to Action

Young participants in the Parks and People program are immersed in the wonders of nature. They meet creatures they have never encountered before. They explore places of beauty. And they develop an understanding of what they can do to preserve nature’s delicate balance.

Why is the Parks and People Program Important?

Canada is a country rich with natural heritage. Yet, more than 80 per cent of Canadians live in urban centres and children are spending more time indoors. There is an urgent need for children to reconnect with nature through play and exploration.

After all, who will care about our endangered species and national parks if we do not nurture a love of nature in the adults of tomorrow?