About this Event
Looking for a meaningful, screen-free way to spend quality time together outdoors this summer?
Welcome to Forest Friends, an immersive parent and kid nature adventure series designed to help local families unplug, explore, and connect. Hosted across three beautiful Lake Metroparks locations on the East Side of Cleveland, this series is heavily inspired by forest school learning principles, physical wellness, and mindful parenting.
Using our signature framework—Breathe • Wander • Create • Rest—each gathering features a unique blend of holistic nature play, kid-friendly yoga movement, mindfulness, and sensory exploration.
This series is carefully crafted to be engaging, accessible, and perfect for children ages 3–10 and their favorite caregivers. Less screen time. More sunshine, childhood wonder, and intentional family connection.
? Our Flow & Activities Include:
- Breathe ?️ Playful bubble breathing, basic family yoga, and engaging movement games designed for kids.
- Wander ? Mindful kids nature hikes, animal detective trail challenges, and deep sensory forest exploration.
- Create ? Nature journaling, building forest mandalas, and hands-on seasonal nature art projects using found materials.
- Rest ? Simple gratitude practices, child-friendly positive affirmations, and calming cool-down breaths.
Every week offers completely new outdoor adventures, unique ecological discoveries, and a welcoming community space to bond with nature and other local families.
? Summer Schedule & Beautiful Locations:
- Session 1: Wednesday, July 15, 2026 (10:00–11:30 AM)
? Gully Brook Park (Willoughby Hills, OH) — Exploring flat, shady woodland trails and counting local wildlife. - Session 2: Wednesday, July 22, 2026 (10:00–11:30 AM)
? Chagrin River Park (Willoughby/Eastlake, OH) — Wandering scenic river trails and checking out the local wetlands. - Session 3: Wednesday, July 29, 2026 (10:00–11:30 AM)
? Jordan Creek Park (Concord Twp, OH) — Discovering deep ravines, creeks, and the interactive Adventure Play area.
? Come As You Are:
Nature doesn't expect you or your little ones to have it all together. It simply invites you to slow down, get your hands a little dirty, and embrace the wonder of the outdoors. We'll take care of the rest.
With love,
Jillian
Event venue & nearby stays
Gully Brook Park, 2100 River Road, Willoughby, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.