Forest Friends
A nature-based occupational therapy group where children build confidence, connection, and social-emotional skills through play.
Climbing. Building. Exploring. Imagining. Getting muddy. Developing confidence. Solving problems. Learning to navigate friendships. Developing regulation, flexibility, and social-emotional skills.
Forest Friends brings children together in nature where play becomes the foundation for growth. Every group is thoughtfully facilitated by an occupational therapist while leaving room for the curiosity, movement, and connection that children naturally seek.
Childhood was meant to be this.
What happens in Forest Friends?
Child-Led Play
Children follow their curiosity while developing skills through authentic play, exploration, and meaningful experiences.
Nature as a Partner
The outdoors naturally offers opportunities for movement, regulation, creativity, problem-solving, and resilience that simply can't be replicated indoors.
Occupational Therapy in Action
Every group is thoughtfully facilitated by an occupational therapist who supports each child's development in real time through observation, connection, and individualized guidance.
Small Groups
Groups are intentionally kept small to nurture developmental skills, meaningful relationships, individualized support, and a sense of belonging.
Is Forest Friends right for my child?
Forest Friends may be a wonderful fit for children who...
Benefit from movement, hands-on experiences.
Are building confidence with peers, friendships, and group participation.
Would benefit from support with regulation, flexibility, impulse control, and social-emotional skills.
Are learning to solve problems, take initiative, navigate group dynamics, and work through challenges with others.
Enjoy exploring and playing outside.
Love being in nature and are looking for a group that honors how they naturally learn, play, and connect.
Benefit from sensory-rich, movement-based experiences that support regulation, attention, and participation.
Benefit from the thoughtful guidance and support of an occupational therapist within a small, nurturing group.
Group Details
Small Groups
Each group is intentionally limited to between 4-6 children to foster meaningful relationships, skill development, individualized support, and a strong sense of belonging.
Ages
Current groups are available for children ages 4–7, with additional groups for younger and older children, as well as adolescents coming soon.
Session Length
Sessions are 60 minutes with built in time for gentle transitions before and after, giving children time to settle in, build relationships, and engage deeply in play without feeling rushed.
Location
Outdoor locations in Stratham, New Hampshire and throughout the Seacoast, with the exact meeting location shared during registration. Please note, caregivers are required to stay on the property for the duration of the session.
All-Weather Approach
Forest Friends is designed to embrace the changing seasons. Groups meet outdoors in most weather conditions, with adjustments made only when safety is a concern.
Gentle Transitions
Children are welcomed at their own pace. Caregivers remain nearby at the beginning of each session, allowing for a gradual transition into the group as children build comfort and confidence.
Schedule
Seasonal multi-week sessions with drop-in opportunities.
Investment
$65 a session.
Occupational therapy services are generally eligible for HSA/FSA reimbursement. I recommend checking with your plan administrator regarding your specific benefits.
Interested in learning more?
We'll begin with a complimentary 15-minute consultation to answer your questions, learn more about your child, and help you decide whether Forest Friends feels like the right fit for your family.
“This nature-based group was exactly what we were hoping to find for our 4-year-old son. We are so grateful for this beautiful play experience.”
— Parent