What is OutdoorKids?

We are a community-based outdoor ed. program serving families across Ottawa, Kingston and the broader GTA/Eastern Ontario region. We teach parents how to guide their children in developing wilderness skills, outdoor confidence, and a lifelong connection to nature through hands-on learning experiences.

Led by Pat Berio (20+ years healthcare experience, outdoor education specialist), our community bridges the gap between virtual learning and real-world skill-building—helping busy parents raise capable, curious, resilient kids who feel at

home in the wilderness.

Our community focuses on practical, age-appropriate outdoor skills that build

confidence and capability:

•🔥Fire-building and outdoor safety

•⛺ Shelter construction

• ⚒️🪚Tool use and craftsmanship

• 🗺️🧭Navigation and orienteering

• 🏕️Camping essentials (setting up camp, outdoor cooking, leave-no-trace principles)

All skills are taught through hands-on, experiential learning that respects each child’s pace and builds on their natural curiosity.

About Patrick Berio, Founder:

Patrick "Patchy" 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.