Forest School 101:
What to Expect
& Pack

As soon as little ones take their first steps, the great outdoors becomes their playground - tree climbing, treasure hunting, bug spotting… you name it! If your child lights up when they go on a trail-treading adventure, exploring every leaf and log, then Forest School might be the perfect place for them. We’ve put together this guide to Forest School, so you know what activities to prepare for and exactly what to pack for a day full of forest adventures.
 

Forest play and den building

It’s in the name! Forest School means plenty of tree-climbing adventures and woodland wandering. Some schools use play as a way to teach bushcraft, which means using their wilderness smarts and knowledge to live and thrive in the natural environment. Your little one might find themselves building cosy dens and hideouts for make-believe games and setting off on sensory strolls.
 

Foraging, bug hunting and animal identification

Take a close look, and what will you see? Animals and bugs, hidden amongst the trees! Forest Schools love to allow little explorers to observe and learn about local wildlife and insects. They may keep a journal of what interesting things they encounter in their outdoor experience, scribbling down their thoughts and doodling sketches of all the things they notice.
 

Make a mud kitchen

Hip hip hooray for messy play days! Making a mud kitchen is a brilliant way to get little mess-makers cooking up a storm. From mud pies and leaf sprinkles to pretty petal potions, your child will love to engage in this play-based cooking adventure with nature’s finest ingredients.
 

Natural arts and crafts

Turn a simple nature walk into an inspiring art adventure! Nature-based arts and crafts are a wonderful way for kids to get creative while connecting with the outdoors. Dive into fun with nature's treasure hunt, and collect leaves, sticks, stones, flowers, and any other fun bits and bobs they spot. Little ones can spark their imaginations as they make all sorts of magical creations, from leafy collages to pinecone pals.
 

Campfire cooking and storytelling

At forest school, children can gather around the crackling campfire to toast tasty treats, learning all there is to know about fire safety as they cook their own simple, delicious foods. It's the perfect place to snuggle close and share fun stories and magical fairy tales, surrounded by enchanted woodland all around that inspires big imaginations.

Pond dipping

Grab a net and pick your spot, find bugs, fish and maybe some frogs! Pond dipping is a super fun activity for your curious little one, providing a hands-on experience that allows them a hands-on peek into the watery world of all sorts of aquatic creatures. All you need is a trusty net, a light-coloured shallow tray, a magnifying glass and a little notebook to write down every wriggly discovery.