What is the Forest Kindergarten programme?
Our Forest Kindergarten programme models a forest school approach for the early years, and is based around child-centred learning through play.
Forest Kindergaretn offers young children frequent, regular play opportunities outdoors in a natural setting, often woodland, in almost all weathers throughout the year.
What is involved?
Young children learn most effectively through play experiences. During outdoor sessions, they’re free to play, explore, have fun and learn.
Sessions are led by the creativity, imagination and problem solving skills of the learner. Staff extend learning through thoughtful interactions, materials, resources and other appropriate support.
Using local woodlands or outdoor green space for play and learning can help deliver the Curriculum for Excellence.
What are the benefits?
Forest Kindergarten connects children with the natural world, leading to long term environmental awareness and understanding. It has many benefits:
- It’s suitable for all learning styles
- It provides a stimulating environment
- It helps children thrive and learn through a real life context
Sessions positively impact:
- physical, cognitive, social and emotional development
- health and wellbeing
- self-esteem and confidence
Training courses
We run training courses for further education colleges to train the trainers.
Read the OWL Scotland directory to find available training providers.
More information
Visit the OWL Scotland website to find out more information about the Forest Kindergarten programme.