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Connecting Community


  • Whitewater RV & Resort 503 Rafting Road Foresters Falls, ON, K0J 1V0 Canada (map)

*Important update: Our dates have changed and we are no longer hosting workshops on Sunday due to our majority of interest is for Friday and Saturday, and we want our volunteering hosts to rest and relax on Sunday! Thank you for your understanding!

The primary objective of Connecting Community is to create a space where outdoor program enthusiasts can engage in shared learning, collaboration, and community-building. As dedicated professionals in the field, we recognize the invaluable insights and strengths each participant brings to the table.

How to Register?

What to Expect?

Workshops and discussions on:

  • How We Learn from Children - An interactive discussion on how the view of the child is important as an educator and individual. How can we learn from children to help us be more confident and self-assured in a social media dominated world?

  • Risky-play and Play-based learning for ALL AGES! -

  • Learning to be Bored and the Imagination Connection

WHY ATTEND?

  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals, sharing a passion for outdoor education and play-based learning.

  • Knowledge Exchange: Learn from experienced guest speakers who will provide valuable insights and perspectives to enrich your own practice.

  • Showcasing Programs: Share your unique programs and goals, contributing to a collective pool of knowledge and inspiration.

  • Professional Growth: Engage in activities and discussions that will foster both personal and professional development.

  • Beautiful Outdoor Facility: Enjoy the serene surroundings of a stunning outdoor facility and spend the night in a community of fellow enthusiasts.

Event Schedule:

FRIDAY

  • 6pm-8pm

    • If you wish to stay the whole weekend, there is an option to join me and others on Friday evening at 6pm for a Fireside Chat and marshmallow roast. Here, people can touch base, settle in, connect, and eat some yummy things over a fire. 

SATURDAY

  • 8:30 am - 9:00 am 

    • Coffee, Tea, breakfast, and snacks

  • 9:00 am - 9:30 am

    • Opening Gathering and Check-Ins:

    • Good morning to the land and to each other

    • Introduction of this event and its purpose

    • Casual introductions to break the ice and facilitate networking among participating programs.

  • 9:45 am - 11:15 am

Guest Speaker #1

Erin Curtis: CEO and Founder of Dragonfly Family and Learning Services
Certified ABA Parent Trainer and Director

  • Presentation and Discussion on Supporting Neurodivergent Children Outside

    11:15 am - 11:45 pm
    LUNCH AND RESET (BYO Lunch)

    11:45 - 1:00 pm

    Guest Speaker #2

    Tianna Tettemer: Co-owner of Sol Y Luna Acro dance, Yogi, Acro instructor, Doula.

  • Acro and PLAY with Tianna!

    1:00pm -1:15pm

  • Break!


    1:30 pm - 3:00 pm (Snack breaks in between)

Workshop with Arija: Risky-Play and Play-Based Learning in Everyday

  • What is Risky-Play and What Does it Mean to Us? 

  • The benefits of Risky-Play in ALL AGES

  • Language that supports Risky-Play

  • Stepping in and Stepping back

  • Unstructured playtime.

  • Passion Discussion:

    • Using “Be Careful” during play/day-to-day

    • Engage in open conversations about our collective passion for outdoor education and the positive impact it has on the community.

    • Share stories and experiences that have shaped your organization's dedication to outdoor programs.

3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Overflow!

Open Discussion:

  • A collaborative discussion on common challenges and opportunities in the field of outdoor education.

  • Exploration of potential areas for collaboration.

4:00pm-4:30pm

Closing Gathering

SUNDAY

Due to schedule changes and registration interest, we have decided to host this event Friday and Saturday only. Our volunteers and hosts time and efforts are valuable and we want them to rest on Sunday!

We hope you have a great Sunday Funday!

COST:

  • PAY WHAT YOU CAN or PAY IT FORWARD! This event has no formal cost. We are accepting donations in the form of cash, time, snacks, or knowledge sharing!

  • Out and About has created a Google Form that will enable you to register. Once you have made your selection, I will send you an invoice and a discount code for accommodation if you choose to spend the whole weekend!


    Accommodation:

  • 20% off accommodation at Whitewater Resort and RV

    How to Register?

Next
June 15

Volunteer Day!