2026 Outdoor Learning Conference

The 2026 Outdoor Learning Conference, hosted by Take Me Outside focuses on advancing outdoor learning through shared practice, community-building, and hands-on learning. Taking place at the Banff Centre in Banff National Park, Alberta from May 7–9.  The 2026 theme “Place and Pedagogy: Where Learning Happens”, with keynotes, panels, and workshops, with core focus including: Indigenous Ways of Knowing, Health & Wellbeing, and Environmental & Climate Change Education.

Bienenstock Natural Playgrounds is a leader in designing natural playgrounds and outdoor learning environments. Our team of award-winning designers, architects, planners, and educators is dedicated to enriching children’s experiences through sensory-rich, nature-based play that supports whole-child development.

Our mission is to connect one million children to nature every day by 2030.

Woodworking with young children is a lost art. Many educators cringe at the word and start to visualize cut fingers and flying hammers. Get past your fears and join this workshop to find out how to make it happen. Come discover how woodworking uses math, problem-solving, fine motor, and social skills while fostering creativity, imagination, and independence. Create an environment where children can be competent and capable when using real tools. In this workshop, we will review the importance of woodworking, understand where to start, the tools to use, safety protocols to implement, and showcase activities that can be done outside with your cohorts.

Date: Friday May 8, 2026
Time: 11:00am – 12:15pm
Location: Kinnear Patio Firepit 2

This is an outdoor and hands-on experience. In Adam’s sessions, we play and learn together with all of our senses fully engaged. You can expect to get dirty, take off your shoes, feel vulnerable and empowered as we explore how sensory-rich, nature-based play is vital to all of our physical, mental, and immunological health, learning, and development. Drawing from insights shaped by world-leading mucosal immunologist (dad), and decades of experience designing regenerative play environments, Adam shares research, practical strategies, and inspiring stories to equip attendees with the tools and motivation to create meaningful change in their communities.

Date: Thursday May 7, 2026
Time: 3:15pm – 4:30pm
Location: Great Blue Heron

Bienenstock Natural Playgrounds is giving away an Outdoor Classroom or Early Learning Pod from our “OutClass™”.

All OutClass™ outdoor classrooms include locally sourced trees, creating an immersive and educational environment like no other.

The result isn’t just class outside. The introduction of a vibrant schoolyard forest brings life to learning, fostering a deeper connection with nature and with the subjects themselves.

To participate in the contest, please click on the button below.