Frequently Asked Questions

What is Forest School?

Forest Schools are outdoor, child-led classes meant to develop wonder and love for nature and the world around them. They are common in Europe and gaining rapid popularity all around the United States. Forest School is not a school in the sense most people think of because we don’t use an academic curriculum. Kids will learn about birds and bugs, plants and trees, the water cycle, and so much more. Through play, kids develop physical, social, and emotional skills that you won’t find in a regular classroom. Kids will develop risk assessment, resilience, emotional intelligence, and a deep connection to nature and finding their place in the world. They will develop problem solving skills, confidence, leadership skills, and gain an incredible sense of achievement.

When and where does the class meet?

Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9:00-12:30 at Maybury State Park. We take a break during January and February, but still meet weekly for family field trips.

What is a typical day like?

9:00 Drop-off

9:00-9:15 Welcome song and story time

9:15 Hike and play

11:00 lunch

11:30 Sit spots and nature journaling

12:00 hike back to the meeting location

12:20-12:30 parent pickup

What are the ages?

Our group consists of kids ages 3-10. We feel that a wide age range benefits all of the kids, and we love seeing the leadership skills that develop in the older kids.

Are you really outside the entire time? What if it rains?

“There’s no such thing as bad weather!”

When you spend time outside in all types of weather, it builds resilience and adaptability. It also helps kids learn about the different seasons of the forest. The woods feel magical and peaceful in the rain, and kids notice the difference! We will give recommendations for appropriate clothing, winter gear, and rain suits. If there are days during the year when it is extremely cold or if there is lightning or high winds, we will use an abundance of caution and won’t meet that day.

Will my child be safe?

Yep! Kids that spend more time in nature tend to get injured less than kids that spend a lot of time sitting at desks. Through “risky play” like climbing, jumping, and balancing, kids learn risk assessment that will keep them safer for the rest of their lives.

We are trained in CPR and first aid, and carry a first aid kit with us at all times. If there is an incident, you will be notified as soon as possible.

What is the student to teacher ratio?

We have 2-3 adult teachers in a class of up to 15 students.

What will my child need to bring each day?

Each child will need to arrive dressed in the appropriate attire and outerwear, ready to play! They will need to bring a kid-sized backpack with extra layers, a snack, and a water bottle. They will also need a packed lunch, but this should not go in their backpack. Please label every item that you send!

Are there restrooms?

Maybury State Park has restrooms that are open in the spring and fall. We also have a popup privacy tent and a small portable toilet when the park restrooms are closed for the season, or in the event that we are far from the restrooms when a child needs to go.