The forest is a place full of opportunities where children can benefit in many ways. It promotes physical health, mental development and social interaction. At the same time, it offers a space in which children can live out their imagination and experience the wonders of nature up close.
A love of nature and the joy of discovery
Children explore different plants, observe animals, and listen to the sounds around them. They find many exciting "treasures" that stimulate their imagination. Often, children perceive the diversity and beauty of the forest much more intensely than adults.
Strengthening self-efficacy
Self-efficacy means that children believe they can achieve their goals through their own abilities and efforts. The forest is an ideal place to strengthen children's self-efficacy. As soon as they enter the forest, they begin to experiment with their bodies. For example, they may aim for a long branch lying on the ground and realize they can pull or even lift it on their own. We adults can trust them with challenging tasks and encourage them. By giving children the space to find their own solutions, we allow them to experience success while also being there to support them in case they fail. A strong sense of self-efficacy makes children more resilient and self-confident.
Learning through experience
In the forest, children learn through play and engage all their senses. They discover how plants grow, which animals live in the undergrowth, and how the forest ecosystem works. They develop an awareness of the seasons, transience, and the cycle of life. The forest offers numerous opportunities to observe scientific phenomena firsthand, fostering their understanding of the environment.
Implementation in the kids & co daycare centres
Our daycare children range in age from 4 months to 5 years. At this stage, "experience" is the top priority. That's why unstructured play is highly valued during our forest days.
To summarise, the forest doesn't require pre-made games—just time and attentive observation from adults.
To further encourage the children's ideas or games, the following materials can be brought from home or the daycare centre:
- String, ropes, and scissors – for knotting, tying natural materials, measuring lengths, creating boundaries, or building houses/ships.
- Various pieces of fabric or old sheets – for building caves, setting up a "dwarf house," or as a base for mandalas made from collected natural materials.
- An old digital camera – teach children how to photograph their own treasures.
- Film cans/collection tins, small containers – to collect treasures and capture scents.
- Magnifying glass.
- Blindfold (or a thin scarf) – Who is brave enough to be guided through the forest? What can I feel, hear, or smell?
Community and Responsibility
Exploring the forest together with other children or carers strengthens the sense of community. They learn to work as a team, take responsibility, and show consideration for nature. Additionally, they develop an understanding of the importance of protecting the environment.
Peace and security
Beyond the adventures, the forest also offers a sense of peace and security. The rustling of the leaves, chirping of the birds, and fresh forest air create a calming atmosphere where children can relax. In the quiet of the forest, they can switch off, organize their thoughts, and recharge.
