Thrive Outside is a nature-based summer program designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence in children of all abilities.
Led by Kendall Lenz, OTR/L, an experienced occupational therapist, this program encourages kids to explore, play, and grow in a dynamic outdoor environment.
Each session takes place at Mad Hatter Farm in Harlem, GA, an accessible and scenic farm that provides the perfect backdrop for hands-on learning and adventure. Through a mix of guided activities and child-led exploration, kids will engage in:
🌿 Sensory Play – Nature-based activities that stimulate the senses, spark curiosity, and support self-regulation.
💛 Emotional Regulation – Outdoor experiences that build confidence, resilience, and coping skills through movement and mindfulness.
🧠 Attention & Focus – Engaging outdoor play that naturally enhances concentration, problem-solving, and the ability to follow multi-step directions.
🧑🤝🧑 Social Skills – Cooperative play, team-building challenges, and free exploration that foster communication and friendship.
💪 Coordination & Strength – Climbing, balancing, running, and hands-on farm tasks that enhance motor skills, body awareness, and confidence.
💡 Why Choose Thrive Outside?
Small group sizes for personalized support
Led by a licensed pediatric occupational therapist
Safe, inclusive, and welcoming for all abilities
Encourages kids to disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature
Promotes social and emotional growth through teamwork, communication, and peer engagement
Schedule:
Thrive Outside offers four week-long sessions in June, giving children the opportunity to explore, play, and grow in nature. Each session runs Monday through Friday at Mad Hatter Farm in Harlem, GA and costs $400.
🌿 Session Dates:
Session 1: June 2-6 Tiny Trailblazers (9-11am)
Session 2: June 9-13 Outdoor Adventurers (9am-1pm)
Session 3: June 16-20 Outdoor Adventurers (9am-1pm)
Session 4: June 23-27 Outdoor Adventurers (9am-1pm)
🌿 Session 1: Tiny Trailblazers (Ages 0-4) 🌿
Join us for a special week designed for our youngest explorers! These two-hour sessions (9-11 AM) offer a chance for little ones to experience nature-based play alongside their parents. Together, we'll explore sensory activities, movement, and hands-on outdoor fun while parents stay to learn alongside their little ones.
🌳 Sessions 2-4: Outdoor Adventurers (Ages 5-10)
Starting in Week 2, Thrive Outside is designed for children ages 5-10. These week-long sessions provide immersive nature-based experiences where kids can explore, create, and grow independently in an outdoor setting. Parents can drop and go, while we handle all the adventure! You are also welcome to stay and play, if you wish!
🍎 Lunch & Snacks:
Our Outdoor Adventurers will bring a sack lunch each day and enjoy a picnic-style meal outdoors. This is a great opportunity for social connection and building independence during mealtime! Please bring a water bottle with child’s name, otherwise disposable packaging with lunch.
Use code: SIBLINGDISCOUNT for $40.00 off when you book siblings!
Due to limited group sizes, spots may fill quickly. To be added to the waitlist, please provide your name and email below:
Thrive Outside: $400
Your generosity can make a difference! Explore our Amazon Wishlist to support our program.
Mad Hatter Farm
This incredible farm is the only handicap-accessible farm in the CSRA, offering a range of activities and experiences that are inclusive and accessible to everyone. The farm features wheelchair paths, handicap-accessible garden beds, and other activities that are designed to be enjoyed by all, regardless of their abilities.
At Cassies Care Farm, every child is welcome, and no one is ever limited by their physical or cognitive abilities.
Whether they are planting seeds in the garden, interacting with the animals, or enjoying the beautiful surroundings, children at Cassies Care Farm are sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Overall, Cassies Care Farm is a wonderful initiative that embodies the spirit of love, compassion, and inclusivity.