Children learn about the natural environment and how to handle risks, exploring and understanding the natural world using their own initiative to solve problems and co-operate with others. Forest school programmes run thought the year and children have access to use full sized tools, play, learn boundaries of behaviour, grow in confidence and self-esteem, and become self motivated.
a 13 month study carried out in Sweden concluded that children attending Forest Schools are more balanced with greater social capability, they have fewer days off sick, are more able to concentrate and have better co-ordination than children in purely city-centred kindergartens. The study also showed that the forest school children had 25% fewer sick days, were arriving at school with stronger social skills, a greater ability to work in groups, and generally children had high self-esteem and confidence in their own capabilities. All these attributes proved to be an effective foundation that raised academic achievements.
At ABC Day Nursery, we have two Level 3 Qualified Forest School Leader's, Amy and Chris, and they each hold a Paediatric First Aid Qualification.