Out to Play

About this program

Out to Play is a therapeutic and educational Forest and Nature School based in urban Ottawa, dedicated to providing access to land connection and outdoor play for children and families. The school holds space for children’s magic, movement, creativity, curiosity, and community. Out to Play offers Forest School programs, field trips, summer daycamps, and therapeutic services such as 1:1 respite and child and youth counselling. Programs take place at the Out to Play Centre in Nepean and in accessible urban wild spaces across the city. Rooted in the Forest and Nature School approach, Out to Play prioritizes child-centred learning and connection through play on the land. The organization centres on children and youth mental health and well-being, while nurturing lifelong care and stewardship for the natural world. Out to Play is committed to inclusivity and accessibility for all families, embracing diversity of race, religion, gender, abilities, and backgrounds.