Presenter: Nicole Brudos Ferrara

Gentle Forest Bathing for Families is a guided, child-friendly forest therapy experience designed to help families connect—with nature, with one another, and with the present moment. This is not a hike and not a lesson. It’s an invitation to notice, explore, and be curious together in a calm, welcoming outdoor setting.

Forest therapy (sometimes called forest bathing) is inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku. Through simple, sensory-based invitations, families are encouraged to notice what they see, hear, touch, and feel in the natural world. Research shows these kinds of experiences can help reduce stress, support emotional regulation, and boost mood—for both children and adults.

During this 75 to 90-minute experience, a trained forest therapy guide will offer gentle prompts that invite slowing down and playful exploration. We move at a kid-centered pace, adjusting the length and flow of the walk based on the energy and needs of our youngest participants. Wiggles, curiosity, quiet moments, and questions are all welcome.

Caregivers are encouraged to participate alongside their children—there’s no pressure for kids to behave a certain way or “do it right.” The forest meets everyone where they are.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.