I frequently get asked questions like, “What is Forest School or Bush Kindy?” Today, I’d like to shed more light on the concept of Bush Kindy or Bush/Forest School. In Australia, it often goes by the names ‘Bush School’ or ‘Nature School,’ while globally, it’s more commonly known as ‘Forest School.’
Picture this: instead of being in a classroom all day your kids are outside, surrounded by trees, mud, and endless opportunities for adventure. Sounds dreamy, right? Well, it’s not just a dream; it’s a real thing called Forest School!
So, what exactly is a Forest School/Bush School?
The Forest School Philosophy
Alright, imagine a place where learning isn’t confined to four walls and a chalkboard. Forest School is all about taking the classroom to the great outdoors. It’s a place where kids get to be wild, where they’re encouraged to explore and get dirty.
Key Philosophies Behind Forest School
- Nature Immersion: Forest School is all about immersing kids in the wonders of nature. From the rustling leaves to the chirping birds, every part of the natural world becomes a classroom. It’s like Mother Nature herself is the teacher.
- Child-Led Learning: Here’s the beauty of it – kids lead the way. At Forest School, there’s no rigid curriculum. Instead, children are encouraged to follow their interests and passions. If they want to build a den or identify different types of leaves, they can go for it.
- Risk and Independence: Forest School promotes a sense of adventure. Kids learn to assess risks and make decisions independently. Don’t worry; it’s all done in a safe and supervised environment. Risk Management is learnt through hands on activities, such as tool use and fire.
- Holistic Development: Beyond the academic stuff, Forest School nurtures the whole child. It’s not just about learning facts; it’s about developing life skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience.
How Forest School Benefits Kids Overall
Alright, now that you know what it’s all about, let’s talk about why Forest School is an absolute game-changer for kids:
- Confidence Boost: Watching your little ones conquer the challenges of the wilderness will make your heart swell with pride. They gain confidence as they learn to build shelters, climb trees, and navigate the forest.
- Resilience Building: Forest School teaches kids that it’s okay to make mistakes. They learn to adapt, improvise, and overcome obstacles – valuable skills for life.
- Creativity Unleashed: The great outdoors is the ultimate playground for creativity. Kids can let their imaginations run wild as they build forts, create nature art, and tell stories under the open sky.
- Connection to Nature: In a world increasingly dominated by screens, Forest School reconnects kids with the natural world. They’ll develop a deep appreciation for the environment and become future stewards of our planet.
- Friendships Flourish: Forest School creates a unique bond among kids. There’s something about exploring the wilderness together that forges friendships that can last a lifetime.
Forest School isn’t just an educational trend; it’s a magical journey for kids that fosters a love for nature, builds character, and makes learning an unforgettable adventure.
If you would like your child to experience Forest School, fill out our Expression of interest survey here: