A Brief History
In the 1900s a play-based, child-centered practice was developed with several key pioneers & open-air schools were introduced across London. These schools had a big impact on children’s health and on the nursery school movement in the 1920’s.
In the 1970s play was a valued part of social development. Spontaneous play was encouraged in children and outdoor play areas were built where children could build and take more risks.
In the 1980s Environmental Education was introduced to the National Curriculum.
The concept of ‘Forest Schools’ originates from Scandinavia and has had such a positive impact on the well-being and development of children that it is now widely encouraged by OFSTED and other educational professionals.
What do children learn?
Holistic Development – This is a process of learning that combines an individual’s mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual growth. The term can be used to describe Forest Schools as they cover many areas of development in one single activity. Holistic learning looks at the child as a whole rather than focusing on one specific area of their development. The learning opportunities at Forest Schools are endless.
Self-Esteem – Children gain self-esteem through challenging experiences with successful outcomes. The way they are supported by adults through experiences such as Forest School help to build confidence and self-assurance when facing new challenges. Good self-esteem means children are able to cope with changes and take on new challenges without fear of failure. The key to promoting self-esteem is to not only praise a child when they have successful outcomes but to reassure them that an unsuccessful outcome is ok. It is fine to fail the first time we do something, this is how learning works and the more we learn from failures the better the outcome when we finally succeed!
Emotional Intelligence – This is the ability to recognise not only your own emotions but the emotions of others. It is learning to have empathy and understanding how to react when people are happy or sad. It addresses the personal, social, and survival dimensions of intelligence. It is adapting to and coping with the immediate surroundings enabling children to be more successful in dealing with environmental demands. Forest schools promote this through allowing children to face challenging experiences, working in teams in natural surroundings. Learning this at an early age is a valued part of a child’s development.
If you have any questions or would like more information about our Forest School please do not hesitate to Contact Us Here.