While every day at forest school unfolds differently based on the community present, their interests, the season, the weather, and the various loose parts found or introduced at the site, students can be sure that they will be welcomed by all.
Free play, put away backpacks on the tarp. Play as other friends arrive in the space (basecamp).
Clean hands get snacks.
Morning meeting on tarp- share a story, discuss changes/observations, using a talking stick share what experiences each child would like to enjoy.
Students will be afforded the large chunks of time necessary to really settle into the kind of play from which rich, deep learning can emerge, and teachers and accompanying volunteers will be encouraged to both play with and closely observe students during this time, as opposed to only supervising or managing behaviour.
Sit spots will be enjoyed to connect with the natural environment as well as practice self-regulation, calming techniques and reflection.
Throughout the day, stories will be read and told and students will be encouraged to spin their own stories, perhaps based on their experiences at Forest School, perhaps based solely on imagination, or perhaps a mix of both!
As the day comes to a close, we will share our highlights of the day, and share one final “hoot and howl” before gathering gear, heading down the path to the parking lot, and saying goodbye to the land and each other.