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.
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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
Petawawa
Our Spaces
Foresters Falls
Through hands-on exploration and skill-building, children develop resilience, independence, and a strong connection to the land, while building leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in a nature-centered setting.
Located at Whitewater RV & Cottage Resort, the Foresters Falls site offers open fields, wooded areas, and a covered pavilion that serves as a gathering and creative hub. Families enjoy the comfort of resort amenities like flushable toilets, alongside rich opportunities for outdoor play, imagination, and nature connection in all weather.
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.
The 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.
Upcoming Events
“I can only hope that our day is filled with mud explosions.”
- Noah, Age 6
