March 28, April 4, April 11, April 18   9:30 - 10:30 | Stratham, NH                    $260 for whole session             Scroll for Potential Coverage info

Forest Friends OT Group

Inquire About Registration 
What to Expect

The Forest Friends OT Group is a small, nature-based play group for children ages 4–7 located in Stratham, NH. Each session is designed to support children through play, exploration, and skill-building in a naturally engaging outdoor setting.

Each session begins with a short circle time, story, and song to help children settle in and connect, followed by child-led and intentional outdoor play. I follow each child’s lead while weaving in the skills we’re working on through games, movement challenges, group adventures, cooperative play, and problem-solving activities. Through this supportive, child-led play, children build social skills, confidence, emotional regulation, and fine and gross motor skills, while also developing sensory regulation and integration.

❋ Intentional and child-led play
❋ social emotional growth

Connection is a core part of this group offering. Children have opportunities to learning and practice social skills, communication, turn-taking, flexibility, and teamwork in a supportive environment. The focus is on building confidence, independence, and positive peer interactions.

Led and supervised by me, Gayle Vardakis, MS, OTR/L, a licensed and certified pediatric occupational therapist and practice owner of Empowering Roots OT. Groups are held in Stratham NH, with the specific location shared with registered families prior to the start of the session.

❋ group Facilitation

Forest Friends OT Group offers a supportive, inclusive space where children are met with patience, curiosity, and encouragement. Children are supported in exploring at their own pace, building confidence, and practicing new skills within a nurturing outdoor environment. 

❋ A Supportive Space
❋ caregiver communication

Caregivers receive brief updates and insights to help support skill development at home.

Spaces are limited. Start by completing a short inquiry form on this website, located at the bottom of this Enrollment section, and i’ll follow up by phone to answer questions and talk through whether this group would be helpful for your child. If we decide to move forward, I’ll send you enrollment and payment details through my secure online portal.

Services may be covered by HSA/FSA.

Payment is collected at the time of enrollment to reserve your child’s spot. 

❋ Enrollment
Inquire About Registration

  • Possible HSA/FSA:
    Group OT sessions may be eligible for HSA/FSA reimbursement.

    Families are responsible for contacting your HSA or FSA provider to confirm eligibility or ask questions about reimbursement. I do not bill or communicate directly with insurance companies.

    Please note:I do not guarantee reimbursement from HSA or FSA. Families are fully responsible for any costs not covered by HSA/FSA.

stay tuned for future pediatric OT group offerings for children, adolecents, and teens ages up through 16.
“I can’t say enough good things about Gayle — she’s a gem of a person, and any family would be lucky to have her in their corner. I’d highly recommend her to anyone looking for someone with genuine expertise, compassion, and heart when it comes to supporting children.”
— Parent