KIDS IN THE WOODS - SUMMER CAMP

Taking therapy into the wild for a summer of authentic growth & discovery

Our OT-led summer camp in Guelph is where kids build social skills through engaging, hands-on activities that spark creativity, meaningful play, and real connections.

Kids in the Woods Summer Camp is where children explore, connect, and grow—building confidence and friendships through meaningful experiences while fully immersed in nature.

Kids in the Woods Summer Camp is where kids come together to learn how to be a friend and a leader as their authentic selves.

Because your child is pretty incredible, right? Maybe they have a deep curiosity about bugs and plants, or they’re a natural problem solver.

And maybe they also struggle with feeling confident in new situations, navigating group dynamics, or practicing flexible thinking.

Is this the right camp for your child?
Kids in the Woods Summer Camp is ideal for children who are:

→ Neurodivergent, anxious, or highly sensitive

→ Wanting to develop stronger communication and social-emotional skills

→ Looking to practice cooperation, teamwork, and problem-solving in a safe and supportive environment

Whether your child is working on building friendships, navigating group dynamics, or feeling more confident in group settings, our summer camp offers a supportive space where they can thrive—just as they are.

Ready to explore if this is the right fit?

MORE THAN JUST A CAMP

Occupational Therapy Support and Skill-Building, Rooted in Nature

Kids in the Woods Summer Camp blends evidence-based occupational therapy strategies with the incredible benefits of nature. Time outdoors regulates the nervous system, fosters creativity, and supports emotional well-being—providing the perfect foundation for growth.

With small-group sessions led by our skilled Occupational Therapists, your child will have opportunities to:

  • Strengthen communication and social-emotional skills

  • Develop cooperation and teamwork abilities

  • Practice problem-solving and flexible thinking

  • Build resilience and confidence through nature-based challenges

This is more than just play. Our nature-based, OT-led summer camp in Guelph is designed to nurture social skills in ways that promote authenticity, and that carry over beyond the forest.

WHAT MAKES OUR CAMP UNIQUE?

A Safe and Supportive Space to Grow

Kids in the Woods Summer Camp is led by a registered Occupational Therapist, ensuring that each activity is designed to promote growth while meeting the unique needs of every child.

In small groups of 4-6 peers, campers engage in:

  • Structured activities that foster teamwork and communication

  • Child-led play that encourages curiosity and confidence

  • Outdoor adventures that provide sensory input and promote regulation

Each group is also supported by 1-2 OT Assistants, Student OTs, or experienced volunteers, ensuring low ratios and more individualized attention and support.

Who is this camp for?

Designed for Children Who:

  • Are entering JK - Grade 4 and enjoy exploring the outdoors

  • Want to build confidence in communication, cooperation, and problem-solving

  • Can stay with the group in the forest, follow instructions, and maintain personal safety with adult supervision nearby but not necessarily within arms reach

What's included?

Five Days of Nature, Growth, and Fun

Daily 3-hour sessions at St. Ignatius Jesuit Centre (North end of Guelph)

Parent updates and group summaries to support continued growth at home

Individualized progress notes after the camp wraps up 

When does it run?

Summer 2025 Sessions

August 18-22, 2025

  • Runs 9AM - 12PM

  • Open to children entering Grade 1 - Grade 4

August 25-29, 2025

  • Runs 9AM - 12PM

  • Open to children entering JK - Grade 2

COST (5-day program):

$750
 A $150 non-refundable deposit will be charged at the time of booking to reserve your child’s spot.

HOW TO GET STARTED

Ready to join us in the woods?

To explore whether Kids in the Woods is a good fit for your child before you register, we offer free meet + greet calls to answer your questions!

01/

Book your meet + greet call. Together we’ll explore your child’s goals and determine if Kids in the Woods Summer Camp is the right fit for your family

02/

Register and secure your child’s spot. After your call, we’ll guide you through the intake process.

03/

Get ready for an unforgettable week! Your child will experience growth, connection, and fun in the great outdoors.

Kids in the Woods- Summer Camp FAQs

  • Some benefits plans do cover Group Occupational Therapy services, and others will allow you to submit for OT through your Health Spending Account. Please consult with your benefits provider to check your coverage specifically for group Occupational Therapy services. Be sure to do this prior to registration!

    Occupational Therapy services are eligible for Ontario Autism Program funding and Shannon Rolph OT is a registered provider through the OAP program

  • We believe that the best therapy feels like fun and play - so this is often what you'll see from the outside: exploring, building, crafting, teamwork activities. But what we're always doing is facilitating opportunities to work on the skills we're building together: perspective taking, communication, compromise, flexibility, etc.

    Learn more here: https://www.shannonrolph.ca/blog/beyond-therapy-kids-in-the-woods

  • We find ways to have fun even in the rain and snow! The exception to this is dangerous weather (i.e. thunderstorms) or dangerous road conditions due to ice/snow.

  • As with most groups, sessions missed due to absence or illness are not eligible for a refund.

  • There is a $150 non-refundable deposit due at the time of booking. The remainder of the session fee is paid 2 weeks before the session begins.