If you’ve heard about forest school and wondered whether it’s actually beneficial for children, you’re not alone. Many parents are curious but unsure what forest school really involves or how it supports learning.
As a mum, a qualified primary school teacher, and someone who has worked in a forest school setting, I’ve seen first-hand how powerful this approach can be. Forest school is often misunderstood as simply letting children play outside, but there is much more to it than that.
Here are five important things I believe parents should know about forest school and how it supports children’s learning and development.
Forest School Is a Child-Led Approach to Learning
One of the biggest differences between forest school and traditional education is that learning is child-led. Children are encouraged to follow their own interests and curiosity, whether that means building a den, climbing, exploring wildlife, or experimenting with tools.
Adults are there to support and guide, not to direct or rush the learning. This gives children the space to make decisions, solve problems, and develop independence at their own pace. Over time, this builds confidence and a strong sense of self-belief.
2.
Forest School Supports Real Learning Through Real Experiences
Forest school focuses on learning by doing. Children are not told what to create or how to complete a task. Instead, they learn through hands-on experiences that feel meaningful and engaging.
Building shelters, tying knots, using tools, or working together on a project all support important skills such as communication, teamwork, creativity, and resilience. These experiences help learning feel relevant rather than abstract, which makes it more memorable for children.
Forest School Helps Children Build a Strong Connection With Nature
Spending time in a natural environment allows children to develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. They begin to notice changes in the seasons, observe animals and insects, and understand how weather affects the environment.
From my experience, this connection often leads to greater respect for nature and a sense of responsibility. Children learn to care for their surroundings and understand their impact, which supports environmental awareness in a natural and meaningful way.
4.
Forest School Has Proven Benefits for Learning and Development
Through both my professional experience and academic research, I’ve seen how outdoor learning can significantly enhance children’s engagement and understanding. When lessons are delivered outdoors, children are often more focused, motivated, and willing to explore ideas more deeply.
Forest school naturally supports problem-solving, curiosity, and critical thinking. The outdoor environment provides endless opportunities for children to test ideas, ask questions, and learn through exploration rather than instruction alone.
5. Forest School Supports Physical and Emotional Development
When mornings feel rushed, everything feels harder. Allowing even ten extra minutes has made a noticeable difference for us.
That extra time means:
🧒 Breakfast doesn’t feel hurried
🧒 There’s less need to repeat instructions
🧒 Small hiccups don’t turn into full-blown stress
Starting the day at a calmer pace has made a big difference for everyone.
Our Final Thoughts
Forest school offers children the chance to learn in a way that feels natural, empowering, and deeply engaging. From building confidence and independence to supporting physical, emotional, and cognitive development, the benefits extend far beyond time spent outdoors.
As both a parent and a practitioner, I’ve seen how forest school can help children grow into curious, capable, and confident learners. While it may not look like traditional education, the skills children gain through forest school support them throughout their lives.
If you’re considering forest school for your child, it’s worth knowing that those muddy boots and messy clothes often come with meaningful learning and lasting benefits.
Forest Schools in Northamptonshire
If you’re based in or around Northamptonshire and are considering forest school for your child, there are several brilliant local options to explore. These settings offer child-led outdoor learning in safe, natural environments.
