Drop-In Days are Open
Family Programs
Full day Programs
Half Day Programs!
Located this Fall: 1408B Summers Road in Petawawa
Kwey! Labdien! Bonjour! Welcome to
Out & About Forest and Nature School Inc.
Out & About Forest and Nature School Inc.
Out & Abouts’ mission is to support self-autonomy in children through play, inquiry and a skill-based curriculum.
We create programs that provide a nurturing environment where children and families feel a sense of community while fostering a deep connection with the land.
Our Programs
After-School Programs
A hands-on, after-school program where children build confidence, teamwork, and practical outdoor skills through play, exploration, and guided wilderness experiences.
(Full-time is currently closed and will open in Winter 2027)
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Ages: 6–14
Time: 5:30–6:30pm or 7–8pm
Length: 12 weeksOur After-School Bushcraft Program helps kids build confidence, teamwork, and real outdoor skills through play, exploration, and time in nature. Offered in two age groups.
What we explore (week to week):
Fire awareness and safety
Shelter building
Whittling and knife safety
Simple navigation
Plant and tree identification
Cordage making
Useful knots
Basic first aid
Locations: Arnprior, Beachburg, Petawawa
Family Programs
Full-Day Programs
A full-day outdoor program that encourages curiosity, independence, and resilience through child-led play, nature-based learning, and real-world experiences.
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Ages: 4–12
Time: 9am–3pmA full day outdoors designed to support independence, curiosity, and confidence. Each week includes new invitations, games, nature-based challenges, skill-building, and lots of open-ended play.
What this program supports:
Curiosity, independence, and creativity
Confidence and resilience through real outdoor experiences
Problem-solving, teamwork, and communication
Observation skills and environmental awareness
Hands-on learning that supports physical, emotional, and cognitive development
Locations: Petawawa, Foresters Falls
Pre-School Program
A welcoming outdoor program for families to connect, play, and explore nature together while building community and supporting early childhood development.
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Ages: All ages welcome
Caregiver required: Yes, accompanied by a parent, caregiver, or trusted adultBirch & Bud is a relaxed outdoor gathering for families who want more time outside together. Expect connection, play, simple nature activities, storytelling, and seasonal moments that feel meaningful and easy.
Community & connection:
Meet other families who value outdoor play
Join a welcoming, supportive community
Enjoy storytelling, seasonal celebrations, and shared experiences
Locations:
Petawawa
Foresters Falls
Deep River (coming soon)
Arnprior (coming soon)
A gentle, play-based outdoor program designed to nurture confidence, friendships, and a strong foundation for learning through meaningful time in nature.
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Ages: Preschool
Time: 9:30am–12pmA gentle, play-based outdoor program that helps preschoolers grow confidence, build friendships, and develop skills that support an easier transition into school, all while deepening their connection to nature.
What this program supports:
Confidence, independence, and creativity
Safe, thoughtful risk-taking
Friendships and cooperation
A stronger relationship with nature
A play-based foundation for school success
Locations: Petawawa, Foresters Falls
Featured Programs
Petawawa
Our Spaces
We are trialing a new location this Fall: 1408B Summers Road
This space will offer a shelter, opportunities for fire building, outdoor cooking, and more! Our Petawawa programs foster an inclusive community where children learn, play, and connect with nature through child-led exploration and shared experiences. We create a strong sense of belonging while encouraging curiosity, confidence, and meaningful connections with the land and one another.
This Petawawa site offers a true outdoor adventure experience, similar to backcountry camping. With no permanent shelter, children fully embrace the elements, from forest exploration to creative play with natural materials. A clean portable bathroom and our playful “tent city” on rainy days add to the adventure, making this location ideal for families seeking an immersive, nature-rich learning environment.
Future Locations
STAY TUNED! Coming Fall 2026
Programs running out of Arnprior!
Weekend Programs
PA Days
Family Events
Upcoming Events
“I can only hope that our day is filled with mud explosions.”
- Noah, Age 6
Spooky Season Special
$25/day
Fridays (September 25th - November 27th)
Please note: Drop-in not Available October 9th
$5 per added siblings
Drop-in on one of our Family Days!
*You will receive an invoice once registered and we accept payment via e-transfer. We do this to avoid charging families pesky website fees!
Time: 9am-12:30pm
Location: 1408B Summers Road, Petawawa (Address and directions will be sent once you have registered)
Purpose and Goals of Birch and Bud:
1. Provide space for families and their children to connect with the community and nature.
2. Encourage and facilitate children's independence, resilience, and self-regulation skills development.
3. Offer dedicated outdoor play and exploration opportunities for guardians, caregivers, parents, grandparents, and trusted grownups with their children.
For young children, this is a stepping stone for the Fox Program-- our outdoor preschool program for children who are independently toileting or in the process of toilet training.
Family Explorers Program!
Join us for an enchanting adventure designed just for families and little explorers! This season, we’re inviting families to dive into the wonders of nature with hands-on activities, all while embracing the magic of the outdoors.
Fire & Shelter Building: Learn the art of crafting a cozy shelter and building a safe, kid-friendly fire to keep warm in the winter woods. Watch little faces light up as we learn the essentials of staying safe and snug in nature!
Animal Tracks & Wildlife Wonders: Winter is a busy season for our woodland friends! Together, we’ll track animal footprints, discover who’s been walking in the snow, and uncover fun facts about how wildlife stays active and survives in the winter months.
Musical Guests: We’ll be joined by a musical guest who will add rhythm to our adventures. Gather around the fire, sing along, and enjoy a performance inspired by the season, filling the forest with wintery tunes and cozy campfire classics!
Play & Nature Games: The seasons provide the perfect setting for nature-inspired games, sensory exploration, and endless fun! From snow sculptures to sunny treasure hunts, we’ll make memories that will warm your hearts all year long.
Whether you’re new to the wonders of nature or seasoned outdoor adventurers, this program will inspire a love for nature and create family memories to last a lifetime.