What is
OutdoorKids?
We are a community-based outdoor education program serving families across Eastern Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area. We teach parents how to guide their children in developing wilderness skills, outdoor confidence, and a lifelong connection to nature.
Led by Pat Beriault — 20+ years healthcare experience, outdoor education specialist — our community bridges virtual learning and real-world skill-building.
Communauté bilingue — Voir en français | 🇨🇦 Bilingual community — English & French welcome
Meet Your Guide
Hey, I'm Fleck 👋
Dad of 3. Outdoor educator. And I genuinely believe your kids are capable of way more than modern life gives them credit for.
I started Outdoor Kids because I wanted families in Eastern Ontario to have a real place to connect — not just a program, but a community. We learn together, get our hands dirty together, and build confidence that lasts a lifetime.
"Stitch Approved" 🧭
"No apps. No supplements. No expensive programs. Just outside."
Skills Your Kids Will Learn
Practical, age-appropriate outdoor skills taught through hands-on experiential learning that respects each child's pace and builds on their natural curiosity.
Fire-building & outdoor safety
Construction de feu et sécurité en plein air
Shelter construction
Construction d'abris
Tool use & craftsmanship
Utilisation d'outils et artisanat
Navigation & orienteering
Navigation et orientation
Wildlife identification & tracking
Identification et pistage d'animaux
Outdoor cooking & camping essentials
Cuisine en plein air et essentiels du camping
Seasonal survival skills
Techniques de survie saisonnières
Nature connection & sensory awareness
Connexion à la nature et conscience sensorielle
In the Field
Patrick "Patchy" Beriault
Patrick brings 20+ years of professional experience as a physical rehabilitation specialist in Ottawa, combined with a deep passion for outdoor education and wilderness skills. His healthcare background informs a developmental approach to skill-building that respects each child's physical and emotional readiness.
As a bilingual Eastern Ontario resident, Patrick understands the unique opportunities our region offers — from the Canadian Shield wilderness to the St. Lawrence waterways — and helps families access these natural learning environments safely and confidently.
Connect on LinkedIn →
Where We Serve
Families throughout Eastern Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area.
Ready to get outside? 🌲
Join 39+ families already in the community. Membership is completely free.
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