Nature Play logo

Nature-based programs for children

Offering occupational therapy, physiotherapy, social skills, and
outdoor play programs for children of all ages




We honour the land on which we work and play, and offer our gratitude and respect to the first peoples' who made this land their home

close up of child exploring mud in rain gear

Our programs support kids to grow and thrive!

Welcome to Nature Play, a place where childhood is honoured and play is held in the highest esteem. Our programs are designed to support all areas of child development while building a strong connection to the land. As technology, a fear-based society, and busy schedules steer kids away from the simplicity and magic of nature, we aim to bring back some of the lost connection to play, discovery, and relationship with nature. 

The research tells us time and time again that nature is where our body and brain are most regulated. In nature, we slow down, our senses are awakened, and our nervous system is in the optimal state for learning and connection. With nature as our co-facilitator, our programs aim to support all children to thrive, as they learn, grow, and explore their own potential.

Our highly trained staff offer forest play programs, small group therapy programs (occupational therapy, social skills, and physiotherapy), as well as school residencies in nearby nature in the Calgary area on Treaty 7 territory. 

Therapy programs

These small group programs are for children who are needing some extra support in the areas of motor skills, peer play skills, self help skills, social skills, and regulation. Groups are led by registered therapists, with support from at least one other adult (3:1 ratio). We offer groups for physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and social skills (led by a speech-language pathologist) for children of all ages, including multi-disciplinary toddler groups (parented), discipline-specific preschool/kindergarten groups, and groups to fit around school schedules for our older kids!  

child playing outdoors with a rope attached to a tree
child playing outdoors with a rope attached to a tree

Forest Play programs 

Our forest play programs (formerly TimberNook programs), focus on building skills in the areas of: social-emotional, sensory-motor, communication, problem-solving, resilience, creativity, and connection to the land- all through meaningful play experiences in nature. Our staff are highly trained and have backgrounds in the areas of child development, environmental education, and other related fields. These programs are a great compliment to a traditional school program, with offerings for children from ages 0-12. 
 

Learn more about our programs