Play the Forest School Way

“Play The Forest School Way: Woodland Games and Crafts for Adventurous Kids” was co-authored by Jane Worroll and Peter Houghton. Jane Worroll is a seasoned practitioner with extensive experience in environmental conservation and outdoor education. Peter Houghton is a dedicated Forest School leader, committed to fostering children’s connection with nature. Together, they recognized a growing concern among parents and educators regarding children’s diminishing interaction with the natural world, often referred to as “nature deficit disorder.” In response, they created this book to provide families with accessible activities that encourage outdoor play and learning, aiming to bridge the gap between children and nature. 

Differentiation: What Makes “Play The Forest School Way” Special

This book stands out by translating the Forest School ethos—traditionally experienced in structured programs—into a format accessible for families and homeschooling environments. It offers a comprehensive collection of games, crafts, and skill-building activities designed to be easily implemented by parents and educators, regardless of their prior outdoor experience. The activities are crafted to be adaptable to various natural settings, making it feasible for families living in urban or rural areas alike. By focusing on child-led, nature-based learning, the book promotes creativity, confidence, and emotional well-being in children. 

How to Get Started

To begin utilizing “Play The Forest School Way,” families should first acquire the book, available through major retailers such as Amazon and Penguin Random House. Once in hand, it’s beneficial to familiarize oneself with the introductory sections that explain the philosophy and principles of Forest School. The book is organized into themed sections, allowing parents to select activities that align with their children’s interests and the resources available in their local environment. Preparation involves gathering simple materials, many of which are natural or commonly found at home, and identifying a suitable outdoor space, whether it’s a backyard, local park, or nearby woodland. 

How It Works: Implementing as a Homeschooling Program

In a homeschooling context, “Play The Forest School Way” can serve as a valuable supplement to traditional curricula, offering experiential learning opportunities that cover various educational concepts. While the book doesn’t prescribe a rigid schedule, integrating one to two activities per week can provide a balanced approach to outdoor education. Each activity includes clear instructions, required materials, and suggested discussion points, making it straightforward for parents to facilitate. The activities are designed to be child-led, with parents acting as guides, fostering independence and critical thinking in learners. Flexibility is a key component, allowing families to adapt the frequency and depth of activities to suit their unique educational goals and schedules. 

What Educational Concepts It Teaches

• Environmental Awareness: Understanding ecosystems, flora, and fauna.

• Practical Skills: Knot tying, shelter building, and tool use.

• Sensory Development: Activities that engage sight, sound, touch, and smell.

• Physical Coordination: Tasks that enhance motor skills and physical fitness.

• Teamwork and Social Skills: Group games that promote communication and cooperation.

• Creativity and Imagination: Crafting and storytelling inspired by natural surroundings.

• Problem-Solving: Challenges that encourage critical thinking and adaptability.

What’s Good About It

Users appreciate the book’s approachable and engaging content, which demystifies outdoor activities for families who may not have extensive experience in nature-based play. The step-by-step guides are complemented by illustrations, making it easy to follow along. Parents have reported that the activities not only entertain but also educate, providing meaningful experiences that strengthen family bonds. The adaptability of the activities to different environments ensures that families with limited access to wild spaces can still participate and benefit. Overall, the book has been praised for inspiring confidence in parents to lead outdoor adventures and for igniting a sense of wonder in children. 

What Could Be Improved

While the book offers a wealth of activities, some users have noted that certain projects require materials not readily available in all households, necessitating additional preparation. Additionally, families with older children or those already experienced in outdoor activities might find some of the content elementary. Including suggestions for scaling the complexity of activities could broaden the book’s applicability. Furthermore, while the book touches on safety considerations, a more in-depth discussion on managing risks in outdoor settings would be beneficial for parents new to facilitating such experiences.

Advice from Parents on How to Get the Most Out of It

Parents recommend starting with activities that align with your child’s current interests to foster enthusiasm and engagement. Involving children in the selection and planning of activities can empower them and enhance their learning experience. It’s also suggested to remain flexible; if an activity doesn’t go as planned, it can be a learning opportunity in adaptability. Documenting adventures through a nature journal or scrapbook can extend the learning and provide cherished memories. Connecting with local homeschooling groups to share experiences and ideas can further enrich the use of the book. Lastly, parents emphasize the importance of embracing the messiness of outdoor play, as it often leads to the most rewarding experiences.

Who It’s an Ideal Fit For

This book is ideal for families seeking to incorporate more outdoor play and learning into their routine, especially those who may feel uncertain about how to begin. Homeschooling parents looking for structured yet flexible activities that promote holistic development will find it particularly useful. Educators aiming to introduce nature-based learning in early childhood settings can also benefit from the book’s practical guidance. Additionally, families living in urban areas with limited access to wild spaces will appreciate the adaptability of the activities to various environments. 

Who It’s Probably Not a Fit For

Families with extensive experience in outdoor education or those already familiar with Forest School principles may find the book too basic for their needs. Similarly, if parents are seeking a more formal, structured curriculum with detailed assessments and learning objectives, this book may not fully meet their expectations. Additionally, families who are not inclined toward outdoor activities or prefer tech-based learning tools might find the hands-on, nature-focused approach less appealing. Lastly, those looking for in-depth coverage of advanced survival skills may find the content too elementary.

Grades

The activities in Play The Forest School Way are versatile and adaptable, making them suitable for a wide age range, from preschoolers (around age 3) to early middle school (approximately age 12). However, many activities can be simplified for younger children or expanded upon for older kids, ensuring broader usability across various developmental stages.

Cost

The book is reasonably priced, typically ranging from $15 to $20, depending on the retailer and format (paperback or e-book). Occasionally, it may be available at a discount through online sellers like Amazon or used book outlets.

Ways to Get It

Online Retailers: Available on platforms like Amazon, Penguin Random House, and Watkins Publishing.

Local Bookstores: Check independent or chain bookstores that stock educational and parenting resources.

Libraries: Many public libraries carry the book, making it accessible for free borrowing.

Used Bookstores or Thrift Sites: Affordable options like ThriftBooks or AbeBooks often have it in stock.

Educational Organizations: Some Forest School programs or homeschooling co-ops may have copies available for lending or purchase.

Play The Forest School Way is a fantastic resource for families and educators seeking to integrate nature-based learning into their routines. Its thoughtful organization, variety of activities, and adaptability make it a valuable tool for promoting creativity, environmental awareness, and hands-on engagement. While not without its minor flaws, the book succeeds in making the principles of Forest School accessible to a broad audience, encouraging children to explore, learn, and thrive in the natural world. For homeschooling families, outdoor enthusiasts, and educators, it’s a worthy addition to any learning library.

Other Nature-Based Resources