15+ Exciting Forest School Activities For Kids

Participating my child in forest school was an important choice, and I am excited for him to begin this outdoor experience. Now that we’re committed, I need to make sure he’s fully prepared for those long forest school activities for kids. I want to make sure he is properly fed and dressed for his twice-weekly five-hour sessions so he can concentrate on playing, exploring, and learning.

But when I prepare his lunch and organize his gear, I can’t help but wonder if I should send him a big bento box or if it will become too disorganized as he eats during the day. Would separate snack containers be more practical? And what about clothing, will he be warm and dry enough, or am I missing a key layering trick?

Since we live in a mild climate, the winter temperatures will range from 30-40 degrees with plenty of rain. Pants are a must since he’s potty trained, so I picked up some affordable Columbia rain pants and a secondhand North Face rain jacket. He also has a puffer jacket, a Columbia fleece, and a North Face waffle base layer set.

But now I’m wondering, are lined rain pants better, or should I stick with layering? He’s only going to fit in 4T for this season, so I don’t want to invest too much, but at the same time, I don’t want him to be cold and miserable while he’s outside for hours. I’ve heard layering is the way to go, but I’d love to hear from seasoned forest school parents who have been through this before.

Shoes are another tricky decision. My little one has always been a rainboot kid, and we’ve relied on them for our forest school playgroups. I was considering getting him a pair of Merrell hiking boots, but since he’s never worn hiking shoes before, I worry they won’t be comfortable for all-day wear. The school expects a fair amount of independence from the kids since the program is for ages 3-6, and I want to set him up for success.

Forest School is one of the outdoor activities that offers children invaluable opportunities to engage with nature, fostering both personal growth and environmental awareness. Below, I present 22 exciting forest school activities for kids designed to enrich outdoor learning experiences for young learners.

16. Nature Scavenger Hunt

Organize a scavenger hunt where children search for specific natural items such as various leaves, rocks, or insects. This activity enhances observational skills and encourages exploration.

Tips:

• Provide a checklist with images for younger children.
• Encourage teamwork by pairing students.

15. Leaf Art and Identification

Collect leaves to create art projects like leaf rubbings or collages. Simultaneously, teach children to identify different tree species based on leaf shapes.

Tips:

• Use crayons and paper for leaf rubbings.
• Introduce a simple field guide for tree identification.

14. Building Bug Hotels

Guide children in constructing shelters for insects using natural materials. This promotes understanding of habitats and the importance of biodiversity.

Tips:

• Utilize items like twigs, leaves, and hollow stems.
• Place the bug hotels in quiet, undisturbed areas.

13. Storytelling Around the Campfire

Encourage imaginative thinking by sharing stories or having children create their own tales around a campfire setting.

Tips:

• Establish clear safety rules regarding fire.
• Incorporate stories that highlight nature and wildlife themes.

12. Nature Journaling

Provide journals for children to document their observations, sketches, and reflections during outdoor sessions.

Tips:

• Encourage regular entries to track changes in the environment.
• Include prompts to inspire detailed observations.

11. Den Building

Teach basic shelter-building techniques using branches, leaves, and other natural materials. This fosters teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Tips:

• Select safe locations free from hazards.
• Discuss the importance of not disturbing wildlife habitats.

10. Tree Climbing

Under supervision, allow children to climb low branches, enhancing physical coordination and confidence.

Tips:

• Inspect trees for stability and safety before climbing.
• Set clear guidelines to prevent accidents.

9. Forest School Activities For Kids: Wildlife Tracking

Teach children to recognize animal tracks and signs, deepening their connection to local fauna.

Tips:

• Use field guides to identify common tracks.
• Explore different habitats to find diverse signs.

8. Forest School Activities For Kids: Planting Native Species

Engage children in planting native plants or trees, educating them on local ecosystems and conservation.

Tips:

• Choose species that thrive in the local climate.
• Discuss the ecological benefits of native plants.

7. Forest School Activities For Kids: Mud Kitchen Play

Set up an area where children can use mud, water, and natural materials to create imaginative “culinary” creations.

Tips:

• Provide utensils and containers for mixing.
• Encourage creativity while emphasizing hygiene practices post-activity.

6. Forest School Activities For Kids: Bird Watching

Introduce children to bird identification through observation and listening exercises.

Tips:

• Supply binoculars and simple bird guides.
• Encourage mimicking bird calls to enhance engagement.

5. Forest School Activities For Kids: Creating Natural Art Installations

Use natural materials to craft temporary art pieces, teaching concepts of impermanence and environmental art.

Tips:

• Photograph creations to document and share.
• Ensure materials are collected sustainably.

4. Forest School Activities For Kids: Foraging Expeditions

Teach children to identify and responsibly gather edible plants, emphasizing safety and sustainability.

Tips:

• Consult experts to ensure accurate identification.
• Highlight the importance of leaving sufficient resources for wildlife.

3. Forest School Activities For Kids: Weather Observation Station

Set up simple tools to monitor weather patterns, fostering an understanding of meteorology.

Tips:

• Use rain gauges, thermometers, and wind vanes.
• Record data to identify trends over time.

2. Forest School Activities For Kids: Bird Feeders

Craft bird feeders using recycled materials to attract local bird species.

Tips:

• Use materials like pinecones, peanut butter, and seeds.
• Place feeders in safe, observable locations.

1. Forest School Activities For Kids: Exploring Pond Life

Investigate pond ecosystems, observing insects, amphibians, and plant life.

Tips:

• Use nets and containers for close observation, releasing creatures gently afterward.
• Discuss the roles of different organisms within the ecosystem.

Conclusion

Encourage curiosity, creativity, and a love for nature with these fun forest school activities! From hands-on learning to outdoor adventures, these ideas will inspire kids to explore and connect with the natural world. Get outside and start the adventure today!