Imagine a handful of preschoolers piling into their classroom, ready to start their day; but instead of a classroom filled with desks or tables and chairs, there are hundreds of evergreen trees bending to greet them in the crisp, winter breeze. Instead of posters and charts hung upon the walls, there are real woodland animals and spikey pine cones and juicy berries, and no walls.

Imagine a classroom with a large playground inside of it; but instead of molded-plastic slides and structured play sets there are giant logs, colorful leaves and hundreds of trees; both wildly and purposefully grown without structure or planned intent. Imagine plentiful toys in the classroom; natural toys and real learning materials everywhere you look. Imagine the children playing outside every day, regardless of the weather.

It’s real, and it’s called forest schooling! Although it has existed in other parts of the world for quite some time (with it’s roots in Scandinavia), this educational approach has been quickly expanding into the United States since the 1920’s; and luckily, it is not limited to preschool-aged children. Upon my oldest child’s first day of forest preschool, we learned that it is definitely where she needs to be – and in my opinion, many other children, as well!

If one ever wants to find Skye, look up into a beautiful tree.

Forest schooling helps children to develop a deep appreciation for the earth through the opportunity for all to play freely in nature. It also helps to build essential life skills for every child; whether it be cognitive, social and/or physical. The academic lessons are often play-based, which naturally allows children the opportunity to learn through play, and often instills a love for learning.

Throwing sticks and rocks onto the ice – will they fall through?

Being outside in nature also usually profoundly strengthens the child’s immune system, making them less likely to experience common infections or illnesses. Those moments spent climbing trees and logs, jumping over and into puddles and building forts, for example, enforces motor skills such as agility, balance and coordination. Imaginative play is greatly supported in nature as well, as the children use the simplicity of nature as their toys and props for play and exploration. Children naturally become more resilient and are less likely to become overweight both currently and in their future life. Problem-solving and critical thinking skills are strengthened every day, as well as team work.

Our children need the earth, and the earth needs our children. If not for anything else, positive exposure to nature everyday has the potential to create future earth leaders and protectors, which is what we desperately need in order to simply and safely live.  We are blessed to have started this journey, and my wishes include the continuity of sharing this amazing educational approach with others.