The Neurodivergence in Nature program at Kortright Centre for Conservation offers a supportive, inclusive experience for children and their caregivers, including respite workers, social workers, OTs, parents, and others.
This program introduces children to nature in a gentle and engaging way through hands-on activities, observation, and play, all within the calm and stimulating environment of Kortright’s forests and fields. It is designed to foster an appreciation and curiosity for the natural world while catering to the unique sensory and developmental needs of neurodivergent children.
Participants will explore nature using their senses of sight, sound, touch, and smell. The program includes sensory-rich experiences with nature artifacts – such as leaves, rocks, and animal tracks – that children can handle and examine closely to discover textures, colors, patterns, and shapes.
Through these interactions, they will learn interesting facts about the natural world and develop a deeper connection to the environment around them.
The program is tailored to be responsive to each child’s individual needs, considering factors such as physical accommodations, sensory sensitivities, and timing for transitions. Whether your child is excited to explore the woods or needs extra space and support, this program is designed to adapt.
Throughout the seasons, Kortright’s landscape offers diverse learning opportunities, and each visit will focus on the unique features of the natural world at the time of your visit. From the vibrant changes of spring to the quiet beauty of winter, children and their caregivers will enjoy discovering nature’s wonders in a relaxed, child-led, and exploratory way.
The program encourages children to experience the value of taking small risks in a natural environment, whether it’s balancing on a log or discovering the texture of tree bark. With small group settings, children are supported to move at their own pace and explore in a way that feels comfortable and safe.
While a Kortright Environmental Educator will guide and facilitate the program, the role of accompanying adults – support workers (Social Work, OT, respite or caregivers, etc.) – is essential for directly engaging with the children, helping them explore various stations, interact with animals, and embrace the spirit of discovery.
Once registered, we will reach out to schedule a meeting to discuss your program goals prior to the first session.
The Neurodivergence in Nature program is designed to be fun, unhurried, and full of opportunities for learning and connection in the natural world.
PROGRAM DETAILS:
Ages 3.5 to 5 years: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Ages 6 to 10 years: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Spring Dates:
Saturdays, May 31, June 7, 14, 21, 2025
Mondays, June 2, 9, 16, 23, 2025
Fee: $210.00 per child
Min/Max: Need minimum of five children, maximum of seven