OT in the Open:
A Nature-Based OT Blog
Building Connection Before Camp Begins
Welcome to Summer at Forestways!
I’m so excited for the start of Forestways Summer Camps and our summer occupational therapy sessions—coming up in just a few weeks! This is a big transition time for kids (and adults too!), so I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself and our amazing summer student volunteers. My hope is that this blog becomes a space for sharing, connection, and helping new families feel supported from the very start.
What Is "Felt Safety"?
You might be wondering what “felt safety” actually means. It refers to our personal sense of how safe we feel—based on our environment, the people around us, and even the sensations inside our own bodies.
Children are incredibly perceptive. They’re constantly scanning for signs of safety or danger. If they’re tired, hungry, overwhelmed, or feel threatened, their brain may shift into a protective mode—commonly called fight, flight, or freeze. In this state, it's much harder for them to learn, play, or connect.
What helps them feel safe again? Calm, regulated adults. This process is called co-regulation, and it’s something we prioritize deeply in our work. Through playful connection, validating emotions, shared movement, and time in nature, we help children return to felt safety.
Building Connection, One Step at a Time
We know every child is unique. That’s why our first goal is always to build trust and connection. To help with that, I’m sharing a photo and a few fun facts about myself and our wonderful student volunteers below.
We’d love for you to share this post with your child—and maybe even ask them some of the questions we’ve answered. It’s a great way to start building that bridge of familiarity before camp begins!
Lindsey Stamper, OT & Owner of Forestways
Favorite Outdoor/Nature Activity-Hiking in mountains
Favorite Occupations-Yoga, gardening, reading, and spending time with family & friends
Random Fact-I’ve lived in 7 states since college and returned home to Ohio 4 years ago
I am looking forward to seeing lots of familiar faces this summer and welcoming new kiddos to camp!
Addie Chileski, Marion Tech OT Assistant Student
Favorite Outdoor/Nature Activity-I love going on hikes, kayaking, and gardening
Favorite Occupations-I love everything music. I have sang ever since I was little. I also enjoy embroidery and water coloring.
Random Fact-I have lived in Ohio my whole life and I love it here.
I am really excited to see how the outdoors can be used in occupational therapy. I have worked at summer camps in the past but never in a therapy setting.
Amanda Sinden, Marion Tech OT Assistant Student
Favorite Outdoor/Nature Activity-Finding new hiking trails to walk/ride bikes with my kiddos & sitting by a campfire
Favorite Occupations-Water coloring, anything crafty, and exploring new areas/cities with my boys
Random Fact-I have lived in many different places in the last 10 years due to my husband’s time in the military including Washington state, Maine, and Sicily, Italy!
I am so incredibly excited to have the opportunity to do my Level One Fieldwork with Forestways. I have never heard of an OT program that is mostly outside in nature! It's such a fantastic concept, and I'm excited to put skills to practice that we have learned thus far in the OTA program!
Ellie Hauger, Marion Tech OT Assistant Student
Favorite Outdoor/Nature Activity-Camping with my family! We are seasonal campers and spend most nice days at the camper
Favorite Occupations-Spending time with my boyfriend golfing or shopping & getting coffee with my mom
Random Fact- My boyfriend and I just bought our first home!
I am looking forward to spending time with the children and learning more about my future career!