What age group is Wild & Wonderful targeting?

Wild & Wonderful Forest School targets children ranging from 7-11 years old. I am currently looking to hire a 5/6 year old teacher to expand.

What is a Forest School?

A Forest School offers children an opportunity to learn in their most natural environment. It supports and fosters an atmosphere for play, exploration, risk taking, confidence building, self-esteem, and social/emotional intelligence through learner inspired, hands-on experiences in a natural setting. Wild & Wonderful is essentially 100% outdoors. The philosophy behind the forest school movement is that there is no bad weather, just bad clothes. Children are expected to have proper clothes daily and will have packed proper clothes incase the weather changes. Through outdoor experiences children learn risk taking, problem solving, being adaptable, cooperation, intrinsic motivation, and much more! Forest schools allow the student to lead their own learning. Curriculum is built around the belief that children naturally learn when they are given the freedom to explore in areas that naturally interest them. Teachers observe children in this natural environment and assess them in areas such as emotional resilience, risk taking, divergent thinking, physical skills, social skills, creativity, critical thinking, peer communication and cooperation, language, and self-esteem.

What does Wild & Wonderful do about inclement weather?

Wild & Wonderful monitors the weather on a daily basis. If there are any high wind warnings, tornado warnings/watches, or any conditions that do not allow for safe travels, Wild & Wonderful will cancel. In the event that potential unexpected extreme weather happens during the school day, any and all weather-related safety concerns will be considered in all decisions. In the event of a thunder storm students will remain under a shelter until it has passed. In the event of high winds students will stay clear of trees or any hazards that could be blown over by the wind. In the event of extreme heat or cold, I will monitor the students closely to prevent heat exhaustion, hypothermia, etc. Parents will be notified to come pick up their child if weather is no longer permissible due to extreme weather conditions.

How will I know what to pack for my child?

After you have enrolled for the program Wild & Wonderful will provide a list of essential items and clothing needed for your child. These items and clothing will remain in a water proof bin labeled with the child’s name on site with them so they can have what they need during the day.