How to Grow Your Nature-Based Play Business

How Pediatric Therapists and Educators Can Grow a Nature-Based Playgroup and Reach More Families
Running a nature-based playgroup, preschool enrichment program, or mom-and-me session is a beautiful way for pediatric therapists, speech therapists, and educators to bring children and families together in meaningful, playful ways. But when it comes to growing that business and reaching more local moms and caregivers, many providers wonder where to start. Whether you’re running a paid playgroup, nature play session, or pop-up camp, getting the word out and building community can help your program thrive. In this post, we’ll share practical strategies to help pediatric occupational therapists, speech therapy providers, and nature-based educators grow their enrichment businesses, connect with local families, and build a loyal following of parents eager for playful learning and connection.

If you want to grow your nature-based play or enrichment business, the key isn’t just advertising, it’s about reaching more local families, building strong word-of-mouth, and creating authentic community connections that make families want to come back again and again.

Start by making sure families in your area know you exist. This means using local marketing tools like community Facebook groups, local mom groups, school newsletters, and directories like Whole Child Guide to promote your nature-based playgroups, preschool enrichment programs, or mom-and-me sessions. Sharing useful, engaging social media posts, like photos from your sessions, parent testimonials, or sneak peeks of upcoming activities—can help families connect with your mission and feel excited to join.

Build a local network with word of mouth marketing

Next, focus on building strong word-of-mouth. Happy parents are your best marketers! Make sure your programs feel welcoming, supportive, and fun, so moms and caregivers are eager to tell their friends. Encourage families to tag your business on social media, share photos, and bring a friend to the next session.

Finally, prioritize authentic community connections. Don’t just sell a service, create a space where parents and kids feel they belong. Greet families warmly, learn their names, and celebrate their milestones. Consider hosting free or low-cost events like “community play days” or seasonal nature walks to bring more people into your circle and let them experience the magic of what you offer.

Marketing ideas for a nature-based playgroup business

The first step to really develop a following of true fans for your playgroup business is to create a network that loves your play groups and are looking for enrichment for their kids.

1. Create a mom-to-mom network
   
   • Offer a private Facebook group or WhatsApp chat just for participating moms
     
   • Host occasional “mom connection” circles at the start or end of playgroups
     
2. Highlight screen-free benefits
   
   • Share tips on the importance of play, nature time, and hands-on activities
     
   • Position your program as a solution for families wanting less screen time
     
3. Offer sibling discounts or family passes
   
   • Make it easy for busy parents to bring more than one child
     
4. Celebrate milestones
   
   • Acknowledge kids’ small wins (“First time climbing the log!”) and share progress updates with parents
     
5. Host free community events
   
   • Seasonal play days, nature walks, or “bring a friend” days to let new families experience the vibe
     

Build Awareness Through Social Media and Workshops

Don’t underestimate the power of gentle visibility. Share helpful tips, common myths, or encouraging stories on social media. Offer free or low-cost workshops, webinars, or Q&As for local parents. This helps families get to know you long before they need to reach out for one-on-one support.

1. Start simple on social media
   
   • Focus on one platform (Instagram or Facebook)
     
   • Post real photos, short videos, or behind-the-scenes updates
     
   • Share parent testimonials and cute moments (with permission)
     
2. List your business on local directories
   
   • Use Whole Child Guide, Google My Business, Yelp, and local family directories
     
3. Use word-of-mouth intentionally
   
   • Ask parents to tag you on social media or recommend you to friends
     
   • Offer a referral bonus like “$5 off your next session when you refer a friend”
     
4. Partner with local businesses
   
   • Collaborate with a local coffee shop, bookstore, or kids’ boutique for cross-promotion
     
   • Leave flyers or postcards at pediatrician offices, preschools, or kids’ gyms
     
5. Collect and use testimonials
   
   • Ask happy parents for short quotes or reviews to post on your website and social pages
     
6. Build an email list early
   
   • Collect emails when families sign up
     
   • Send short, valuable updates (upcoming events, parenting tips, seasonal announcements)
     
7. Offer an irresistible first-time offer
   
   • “First class free” or “Trial week at a special rate” to lower the barrier to entry
     
8. Use beautiful, simple visuals
   
   • Invest in a few professional photos, or learn to take well-lit, authentic images of your sessions

By combining local outreach, genuine relationships, and a great family experience, you can grow your nature-based play or enrichment business in a way that’s both sustainable and deeply meaningful.

Build Your Referral Network

Some of your best connections will come from relationships with other providers. Build referral partnerships with:

• Pediatricians
  
• Occupational and speech therapists
  
• Child psychologists and counselors
  
• Parent coaches
  
• Daycare centers and schools
  

These professionals already have relationships with families and can help connect you to parents who need your expertise.

Get Listed in Specialized Directories

Families are often overwhelmed by Google searches like “sleep training specialist near me.” Directories like Whole Child Guide help parents filter by specialty, experience, and approach, making it easier for them to find you.

Make sure your directory profile includes:

• Your bio and credentials
  
• Areas of specialty
  
• Age groups you serve
  
• Approach and philosophy
  
• Contact information and website
  

Summary

Helping families navigate sleep challenges is meaningful work—but reaching the right families takes intention. By defining your niche, building referral networks, showing up with warmth, and getting listed in trusted directories like Whole Child Guide, you can ensure that the families who need you most can find you.

Ready to connect with the right families? Join Whole Child Guide and become part of a trusted community dedicated to supporting the whole child.