The Social Benefits of Forest School
We dream of raising our kids in connected communities, where they are supported and nourished by a variety of positive relationships.
But how do we create this, especially if we’re taking an alternative education pathway?
And how do we ensure that children have the social skills to develop meaningful relationships?
We’ve got good news for you – there’s increasing evidence that time spent at forest school supports children’s social development in a variety of ways.
Joining fellow children, leaders and parents at forest school leads to the creation of a learning community, where children have a voice and are empowered to influence their collective and individual experiences.
Children are not only able to develop a connection with the natural ecology, but also find belonging in a social ecology.
Last week we explored how community benefits adults, now it’s time to talk about the kids.
Let’s dive in.
The evidence is in
As forest schools grow in popularity, there is a growing body of research exploring their multi-faceted benefits for children.
Forest School has been proven to have positive effects on children’s:
1. social and cooperative skills
2. physical skills
3. self-confidence and self-esteem
4. learning performance and cognitive skills
5. emotional and mental wellbeing
6. environmental awareness and sense of belonging
7. and risk management skills.
In particular, the research shows that spending time at forest school has wonderful advantages for children’s social growth and development.
It’s not a stretch to understand why behaviour issues crop up at school. Kids are restricted to timelines and cramped spaces which don’t allow them the autonomy and ability to self-regulate.
Venturing out into nature is a huge step towards allowing kids to listen to their bodies and move, play, and interact socially in ways that feel intuitive to them.
Cumming and Nash (2015) found that the natural surroundings at forest school promoted the development of relationships among children, and between students and staff. Furthermore, the children noticed that compared to a classroom setting, certain of their peers acted out, but once at forest school they had to interact as a group and this behaviour occurred less frequently. Additionally, children noticed that they had more time to socialise and chat because they had more free time than at school, where there was always a lot to do. Their research also revealed that children and staff found conflicts in the bush settings were resolved more easily.
The social benefits of forest school are significant in children who attend on a long-term basis. Research by O’Brien (2009) found that children showed improved social and collaborative skills from regular time spent at forest school. Children who initially struggled with group work and communication started to cooperate and form working friendships. The children also reported that they learned better when they were with their friends, and this had a positive impact on their teamwork as well.
Another factor is the nature of the play opportunities offered by the forest setting, which often requires children to work together. Because play is often self-directed, the children are engaged because they are choosing to be there. This means that children are more motivated to work through conflicts and difficult interactions because they are invested in the projects and games they have chosen. However, the ability to manage relationships and communicate with other people takes time to develop, that’s why it’s so important for children to be able to attend over a longer period of time.
Socially-Connected Kids
Forest school becomes a space where micro-communities develop, and this is an incredibly powerful space for children to cultivate social skills and relationships.
Blackham, Cocks & Bunce (2021) propose that these micro-communities “contribute to the social and emotional development of children and young people through the construction of a shared space, fostering a sense of community and a shared power paradigm between leaders and participants.”
The focus on fostering community and connectedness supports children’s social and emotional development through:
- negotiation of resources;
- learning to manage conflict with limited adult intervention;
- forming relationships beyond the classroom;
- and discussing thoughts and feelings.
These experiences lead to a sense of community, which is vital for their development and integral to an overall sense of wellbeing (Pretty, Bishop, Fisher, & Sonn 2006).
Not only does forest school provide opportunities for social connectedness, which has immediate benefits for children’s wellbeing, the outdoor environment adds a therapeutic element to these interactions.
Furthermore, for Kemp and Pagden (2018), the Forest School focus on socialisation makes the hidden curriculum of socialisation explicit, encouraging self-directed learning and self-awareness. They argue that power-sharing when it comes to learning and encouraging children to take a facilitating role in the educational process enables such social-development.
Promoting Community at Forest School
Forest School promotes community in various ways, fostering a sense of belonging, interconnectedness, and cooperation among children. Here are some of the ways in which Forest School contributes to building a strong sense of community:
- Shared Outdoor Experiences: Forest School provides a shared outdoor experience for children, educators, and parents. By spending time together in the natural environment, we can bond over common activities, adventures, and discoveries, creating a shared sense of connection.
- Collaborative Learning: At Forest School, children often engage in group activities and projects. This collaborative learning approach encourages teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Working together towards common goals enhances the sense of community and collective achievement.
- Sense of Place: The natural environment becomes a shared space for the Forest School community. Children develop a sense of place and ownership over their surroundings, strengthening their connection with nature and each other.
- Interacting with Peers and Adults: Forest School provides opportunities for children to interact with their peers and educators outside of the traditional classroom setting. These interactions foster positive relationships and a supportive community where children feel valued and respected.
- Family Involvement: Forest Schools often involve parents and families in various activities and events. Family participation reinforces the sense of community and creates a support network for both children and parents.
- Nature-Based Rituals: Forest School may incorporate nature-based rituals and traditions, such as storytelling around a campfire, nature walks, or group reflections. These rituals deepen the sense of community and shared experiences.
- Environmental Stewardship: Forest School promotes environmental awareness and stewardship. Participants develop a shared responsibility for caring for the natural environment, reinforcing a sense of community with nature itself.
- Inclusivity and Diversity: Forest Schools often embrace inclusivity and diversity, welcoming children from various backgrounds and abilities. This fosters an environment of acceptance and understanding, promoting a strong sense of community that celebrates differences.
- Celebrating Milestones: At Forest School, we celebrate children's milestones and achievements together, reinforcing the notion of a supportive community that acknowledges and supports individual growth and progress.
Overall, Forest School creates a community where children, leaders, and families come together to connect, learn, and grow in harmony with nature.
Through shared experiences, collaborative learning, and a sense of belonging, Forest Schools promote a strong sense of community that extends beyond the boundaries of the school itself.
If you’re interested in joining a like-minded community of families putting the dirt back into childhood, come along and join us at one of our forest school programs in Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. You’re always welcome! Head to our bookings page to secure your spot today and follow our journey at @wildlings_forestschool.com.