Join a Functional Roots Occupational Therapist in this 8-week ninja skills program designed to develop coordination, sensory-motor, and social-emotional skills with peers in the great outdoors.
Your child will put their strength, agility, and collaboration skills to the test as they navigate nature obstacles and complete individual and team missions.
As the caregiver, you are an active participant in the program and work with your OT to build your own “Nature Ninja Home Missions” to continue the growth and fun at home.
Groups are small (between 3-6 kids) to foster peer and caregiver connection
Weekly 70-minute sessions held at parks in the Pittsburgh Area
The first and last sessions include a skills “test” to show how your child’s ninja skills improve from the program
Do any of the following describe your child?
If so, Nature Ninjas is a perfect fit.
We’ll work on all of this and more–as a team in a natural environment.
Ages 4-10
8 Weekly Sessions
Spring 2025 Locations:
Fall Run Park, Glenshaw, Allegheny County
The Discovery School, Allison Park, Allegheny County *current students ages 3-6 years
Bushy Run Battlefield, Jeannette, Westmoreland County
Complete the Application below & select your preferred times and location
This is not a direct occupational therapy group. However, this group is a great fit for those who are currently participating in occupational therapy or a graduate of services.
Yes! We value group interactions for everyone who is passionate about creative opportunities to learn and grow in an active environment. Parents have reported learning beneficial tools and inspiration to instill calm, connected, and coordinated play activities for their child.
We strongly believe that a caregiver is a key component to child success and your presence allows you to be informed and educated in the process. Caregivers are expected to navigate the outdoor terrain with the group. Caregivers are encouraged to take a step back and allow their child to work through natural problems before assisting. This allows you time to observe your child purposefully and connect with other caregivers of children with similar goals. Your Nature Ninjas guide will prompt when it’s time for you to be a more active participant with missions.
All park locations vary in terrain and outdoor elements. It should be expected to explore the park at your own risk with possible encounters with wildlife and other members of the community.
*Fall Run Park is a nature trail with various terrain (rock, gravel, dirt, grass, walking bridges) and a few moderate hills. A stream follows the trail with areas that are steep hills leading to water. Water is accessible by foot in many areas. It is mostly shaded and typically cooler when entering the trail.
Siblings are welcome to join the caregiver, as long as it is not a distraction to the parent supervision of the child participating. We do value the importance of working in real life situations, such as what life looks like with sibling involvement. Siblings may assist their Nature Ninja during some missions but materials and supplies are reserved for the group participants in the program.
Like most enrichment classes, refunds are not offered in the event of an absence. However, you will receive the mission guides and tip sheet to complete activities on your own time.
Session led by a pediatric occupational therapist with group parent consult time, take home mission guide, written customized tips towards your family goals, materials, and optional 15 minute phone call with Jamie.
Yes, we work through different weather conditions as it can be a great opportunity to work through natural challenges and provide positive interactions for intentional play outdoors. In the event of extreme weather like thunderstorms, flooding, unsafe icy roads, the session will be canceled with notification via text/email one hour prior to the class. One make up day will be reserved on a weekend.
*Students at The Discovery School will have a back up indoor location in the event of harsh conditions.
