Studies show that kids and adults alike can benefit from being in nature and exploring mind-body movement.
This one-of-a-kind, multi-generational program is designed to help families to slow down and connect by experiencing nature and movement together. A guided walk through the woods with elements of Tai Chi and family forest bathing will guide kids and their parents or caregivers through a series of sensory and gentle movement adventures in nature.
We will explore a combination of trails, glades, and meadows, with a total distance of no more than one-half mile at a gentle pace, with several stops for activities.
This program is designed for families with children aged 7 to 14 years. At least one adult caregiver must actively participate along with the child.
This program meets in person at the Arboretum.
Instructor: Dawn Nader, certified tai chi instructor, Elevate Tai Chi; Chelsea Hanson, certified Forest Therapy guide, Family Forest Bathing LLC
Age: Adults aged 18 years and older, children aged 7 to 14 years old (One ticket admits one adult and one child.)
Course number: WELL500
Instructors
Dawn Nader, certified tai chi instructor, Elevate Tai Chi
Dawn Nader has more than 15 years experience as a student and instructor in Wushu, Yang Style Tai Chi, and Straight Sword, and she is a certified TaijiFit™ Method instructor. Her journey toward wellness through the Chinese martial arts provides a perspective on using mindful movement as an exercise to empower the mind, strengthen the body, boost the immune system, and improve the condition of the human spirit. Learn more at Elevate Tai Chi.
Chelsea Hanson, certified forest therapy guide, Family Forest Bathing LLC
Chelsea Hanson is a Forest Bathing Guide and Founder of Family Forest Bathing LLC. She completed her certification through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT), with a specialization in guiding children. She is passionate about helping people of all ages thrive through nature engagement and mindful movement. She created the Family Outdoor Adventure Club in 2024 to help families connect with nature and each other through monthly meet-ups. Prior to moving to Palos Park in 2023, she helped foster wellbeing in Chicago through co-founding the Logan Square Pilates & Core Studio, co-creating an annual Women’s Day Wellness Festival, and coaching for Girls on the Run. Chelsea fell in love with tai chi at the Morton Arboretum in 2022 and has since become an enthusiastic student of Dawn Nader and the TaijiFit method. She can be found playing in the trees with her two young boys, trail running with her husband, and snowboarding.
What to Know
Each ticket admits one active adult caregiver and one child participant.
This program meets outdoors. Check the forecast and dress for the weather.
Wear comfortable clothes that allow for easy movement.
Program Schedule
This program meets during these times; choose your sessions. Pricing is per session.
Saturday, July 19, 2025, 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Arbor Court (parking lot P-1), East Side
Saturday, August 16, 2025, 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Thornhill Shelter (parking lot P-21), West Side
Saturday, September 20, 2025, 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Thornhill Shelter (parking lot P-21), West Side
