The Advantages Of Forest School For Your Child

If you’re a parent, you may have encountered the term Forest School in discussions at parent and toddler gatherings. More than just a method of outdoor education, Forest Schools represent nature-centered communities that adopt a long-term educational strategy aimed at fostering confidence, exploration, and discovery within a natural environment. The term Forest School does not indicate a specific location, but rather embodies a philosophy. The idea made its way to the UK in the 1990s, inspired in part by Scandinavian initiatives to encourage outdoor learning for children.

Sarah Lawful serves as the chair of the Forest School Association in the UK, an organization established in 2012 with approximately 2000 members.

“At its core, Forest School revolves around playful engagement with woodlands. It’s a space where our understanding of well-being, the educational needs of children, and their physical and mental health align, and where they learn to nurture the planet,” Sarah elaborates.

In recent years, Forest Schools have seen a rise in popularity throughout the UK. While many schools and clubs have turned to outdoor learning, Forest School offers a distinctive approach with specific advantages for children. These institutions provide consistent sessions, often on a weekly basis year-round, allowing children to experience all four seasons and grasp the changes in nature. Primarily targeting preschool and primary school-aged kids, some Forest Schools function independently while many early years settings have begun integrating Forest School activities into their programs.

What are Forest School Activities?

The activities can range widely, including adventurous tasks such as constructing dens, climbing trees, starting campfires, and practicing green woodworking. Simpler activities are also abundant, such as painting with leaves, walking on logs, bug hunting, and designing outdoor obstacle courses. The essential concept is that children spend time outdoors, actively engaging with elements found in their natural surroundings.

In a manner akin to Montessori education, Forest School emphasizes a child-led environment. This experience is guided by a skilled facilitator who ensures that every child has the resources they need while maintaining safety standards.

The Advantages of Forest School

Numerous studies indicate that outdoor learning provides various benefits, including enhancing physical health and minimizing stress. For young children, outdoor experiences are also excellent for developing their physical skills, visual acuity, and understanding risk.

Often, adults equate risk with danger, but trained Forest School practitioners view risk as an opportunity for children to assess and navigate. This, in turn, fosters self-confidence and encourages them to take ownership of their personal safety.

“Forest School provides adventure and excitement, but learning to navigate risks is crucial. What does risk feel like? How can I keep myself safe? How do I make informed decisions?” Sarah remarks.

This hands-on learning paradigm enables children to become independent and embrace trial and error as a critical life skill. Additional benefits include an increase in self-esteem, enhanced confidence around peers, physical fitness, and a profound respect and understanding of the natural environment.