Create Your Own Nature Playground

• This training is for adults only. We are not able to offer child care.

As children's schedules have become increasingly structured and screen time has become a larger part of everyday life, opportunities for meaningful outdoor play have never been more important. Nature playgrounds offer children the freedom to explore, create, problem-solve, and connect with the natural world.

But what exactly is a nature playground, and how can you create one in your own outdoor space? Whether you're a parent looking to enrich your backyard or an educator hoping to transform a schoolyard, playground, or outdoor learning area, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and inspiration to get started.

Join Ferntop Nature School educators for this engaging 3.5-hour workshop exploring the why behind natural play spaces and the how of creating them. You'll discover the essential elements that support rich, open-ended play and learn practical ways to design spaces that encourage creativity, curiosity, and resilience. The class will take place in Ferntop's outdoor pavilion and on our own nature playground, giving you plenty of real-world ideas to take home.

Creating a meaningful natural play space doesn't require a large budget or advanced building skills. What it does require is an understanding of how children play best and thoughtful ways to provide the materials and environments that keep that play thriving. We'll share practical strategies, simple design principles, and plenty of inspiration you can adapt to your own space.