-1.jpg?height=100&name=Image%20from%20iOS%20(2)-1.jpg)
Winnie
A forest school is a nature-based emergent learning program that takes place in an outdoor environment. Holistic growth is encouraged through a long-term learning process to promote social, emotional, physical and intellectual development. This educational style is based on experiential learning that encourages learning through nature. Daily outdoor opportunities encourage children to take risks, develop self-confidence, and create positive self-esteem by prioritizing communication and individual learning interests.
One of the first known concepts of forest schools dates back to 1952. In Denmark, Ella Flatau would take her children to a nearby forest to play and explore. Soon, neighborhood parents became intrigued and joined these “walking Kindergarten” adventures. Around the same time, in Sweden, Goesta Frohm created the idea of “Skogsmulle,” (four fictional characters) who taught about nature, water, mountains, and pollution. He called these learning sessions “Rain or Shine schools.” The schools became more popular in Denmark, especially as indoor space for young childhood development centers became more scarce. The first known modern forest school in the United States appeared in California in 1996.
What are the six key principles to Forest Schooling?
There are six universally agreed upon guiding principles that make up the Forest School values.
-
- Learning is a long-term process. The cycle of observation and adaptation are linked between sessions for life-long learning lessons.
- Learning takes place in an outdoor setting to support the connection between the learner and nature.
- A range of learner-centered processes is present to promote proper development.
- Holistic development is promoted to instill confidence, independence and creativity.
- Safe risk-taking is supported for hands-on learning.
- Schools are run by qualified Forest School professionals.
A broader curriculum is associated with forest schools. This foundation supports a no boundaries-approach to the learning process. The open-air classroom setting encourages imagination, open-ended play, and freedom. A typical day may include using natural objects to create toys, participating in exploration games such as Hide-n-Seek, role play, and learning about the ecosystem. Year-long programs also enable exposure to the changing of seasons and environment.
What are the benefits of Forest Schooling?
Forest schooling offers a number of exceptional benefits for children
- Free play in an outdoor setting encourages curiosity, creativity and imagination. Children are encouraged to learn through hands-on exploration and discovery. Adults serve as facilitators vs. teachers, thus promoting child-led and play-based experiences.
- The ongoing process of learning supports problem-solving and critical thinking. Nature enables development through interactions, observations and reflection. The outdoor setting is a blank canvas through which textures, materials and natural objects can enhance all of the senses.
- Independence is cultivated through interactive learning. Children have the freedom to explore and take risks under proper adult supervision. This freedom enhances self-esteem, boosts confidence and stimulates motivation. It has also been shown that children with autism and ADHD have benefitted from forest schooling.
- The health benefits are overwhelming. Exposure to sunlight and vitamin D, as well as having the freedom to be mobile, encourages strong bones, muscles, better moods, and better sleep. Most importantly, children build a foundation of empathy towards the natural world surrounding them. It is believed that forest schools are the antidote to childhood obesity, attention deficit disorders, hyperactivity and depression.
What is the proper attire for a Forest School?
No weather is considered bad when it comes to outdoor schools. However, it is good to keep in mind that your child will spend most, if not all, of their day outside. Therefore, it is wise to invest in the appropriate type of gear to ensure your child stays comfortable in all weather conditions. Below are some good tips to keep in mind:
- Wear a base layer in cooler temperatures. Synthetic or wool-wicking long underwear are great options to keep your child warm and dry.
- Include a middle layer that consists of fleece or puffy insulation.
- An outer layer provides protection from wind, rain and snow.
- Other suggested gear may include: boots, rain and snow gear, mittens, neck warmers and waders. Do not forget to always send your nature explorer to school with one or two changes of clothes.
Forest schools appear in many forms such as summer camps, wilderness therapy, and Outward Bound programs. A large number of countries now feature established and documented nature-based schools including Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Malaysia, Spain, Ireland, UK, and the United States. In 2016-17, the United States saw a 66% increase in registered outdoor preschools and Kindergarten programs. It is safe to say that this unique form of education is definitely on the rise.
Visit Winnie to find a forest school in your area.
