Ages 4-12 / 9am - 3pm / Petawawa

COST: $380

COST: $300/week (SPONSORED SPOTS SOLD OUT!)

**Please pay via e-transfer to outandaboutinnature@gmail.com
We know it’s an extra step but it saves on pesky website fees and keeps programs accessible as possible.

*You will receive an invoice shortly after registration

Monday - Friday
9:00am-3pm
Ages: 4-12

Optional Aftercare: 3-4:30pm (limited spaces available, $100/week)

Program Overview

Our program offers dedicated time and space for children to grow in confidence, resilience, and their connection with the natural world. Designed for children ages 4–12, this unique experience combines outdoor play with hands-on learning, led by skilled educators and special guests.

Day 1: Introduction to Tools & Safety Foundations

• Learn safe tool handling (how to hold, carry, and pass tools)

• Introduce “carving circle” and body awareness (safe distance, carving away from self)

• Younger group: use peelers to strip bark and explore wood textures

• Older group: supervised introduction to carving knives and basic grip

• Practice: making simple shavings and controlled cuts

Day 2: Exploring Wood & Making First Cuts

• Identify safe carving wood (softwoods vs. hardwoods, green vs. dry wood)

• Learn how to choose and prepare a carving stick

• Practice basic techniques: push cut and simple shaping

• Younger group: continue peeling, begin shaping ends of sticks

• Older group: begin forming points (e.g., roasting stick or stake)

Day 3: Building Skills Through Simple Projects

• Introduce control and precision (slowing down, small movements)

• Teach stop cuts (older group) and shaping techniques

• Project focus:

  • Younger group: carved “magic sticks,” wands, or decorated sticks

  • Older group: tent pegs, simple tools, or basic shapes

• Reflect on challenges and successes

Day 4: Creative Carving & Nature Craft Integration

• Encourage creativity and personalization

• Project focus:

  • Younger group: decorate and assemble nature crafts using carved pieces

  • Older group: carve simple figures, beads, or symbolic objects

• Optional: introduce light sanding or smoothing techniques

Day 5: Storytelling, Reflection & Functional Skills

• Create meaning through carving—what did you make and why?

• Integrate storytelling: children share the story behind their carved object

• Group discussion on safety, growth, and next steps in carving

What Your Child Will Gain

Children will build both practical skills and theoretical knowledge, including:

• Risk assessment and safety awareness

• Survival techniques and bushcraft

• Effective problem-solving and critical thinking

• A basic understanding of biology and natural systems

• Life-long friendships, self-assurance, and emotional awareness

These skills naturally weave into their everyday lives, helping them become more capable, curious, and confident.

Program Highlights

• Child-led exploration with learning introduced naturally through play and curiosity

• Nature games, storytelling, projects, and daily challenges that reflect the day’s theme

• Small group adventures with a high adult-to-child ratio (1:7)

• Supportive mentoring to encourage self-sufficiency and deeper learning

• Focus on emotional intelligence, compassion, and gratitude

• Visits from expert guests who inspire, teach, and guide children in outdoor knowledge and skills

I am thrilled to welcome everyone to programs, where we build community and connection through play.