All humans can benefit from the outdoors! If your child is receiving therapy, outdoor therapy is just another way for them to receive therapy in a different environment that allows them to be in nature while their parents are involved. Parents are present to learn strategies for carry-over at home and across environments. Our group environment allows for facilitation of social interactions and has led to friendships forming outside the group therapy session. Our inclusion of food exposure with peer modeling has shown an increase in child food exploration. Additionally, outdoor therapy adds increased sensory input and balance challenges that are unique and difficult to simulate indoors.
Class begins with 10-15 minutes of socialization/free play followed by a group circle time lasting about 10 minutes. The class then splits into groups by age ranges and will rotate through speech-language/feeding therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. Each group will complete activities within each discipline. Often disciplines combine when it makes sense to complete lessons that are multifaceted. We end with a 5 minute group circle time to wrap up the class. The total class time is 2 hours, with approximately 30 minutes spent with each discipline.
Yes, it is imperative that each child has an adult to attend with them. Parents are required to attend with their child/children for safety reasons as well as to learn strategies that can be carried over at home. If two children are attending, both parents or a parent and another adult needs to attend for a 1:1 adult/child ratio.
The following supplies are required to participate in nature therapy: a rainsuit and waterproof boots. It is your responsibility for your child to be dressed appropriately for the weather. Dress them in windbreakers, raincoats or heavy winter coats as needed. Always dress your child to get muddy and messy. Avoid name brands which do not specialize in outdoor gear such as GAP or H&M. Although cute, these products will not keep your child warm or dry. Instead, try our recommended brands, or brands sold at outdoor recreation stores like REI. We also highly recommend a backpack for your child to carry with a water bottle.
Please look under the supply list TAB on the REGISTRATION page for a full list of suggested items.
Explore, Engage, and Embrace Class is designed for children aged 3-13.
Class will be held Rain, Snow, or Shine! There is no such thing as bad weather - only bad clothes! There are safety measures in place in the event of lightning.
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