Do you really go outside every day?

Yes! Going outdoors in every kind of weather builds resilience and teaches children they can handle anything! As long as we are dressed appropriately (read on to learn more about dressing for Forest School) children can play outdoors for extended periods of time and enjoy it. Splashing in puddles, playing in the mud, making snow forts, flying kites can only happen on less-than-perfect weather days. That being said, there are conditions where we remain indoors: tornado warnings, thunderstorm warning or lightening spotted or thunder heard, wind chill below 15 degrees, and when wind gusts approach 30 mph. On these days, it is unsafe to be outdoors, and our program will take place indoors.

What about in the winter?

Yes, even in winter. Dressing for extended time outdoors is an art, as well as choosing the right outdoor gear. We stay plenty warm with a campfire, staying active, drinking warm cocoa or tea, playing group games, and using a warm-up station. Children are taught to recognize when they are too cold and how to warm up.

What does my child need for Forest School?

Children need to be dressed appropriately for the temperature and weather conditions, a water bottle, as well as plenty of snacks. Staying active for several hours really drives their appetite! Each child has a large plastic bin to keep all of their extra clothes and boots at the preschool so no need to take home each day. All children must have an complete extra change of clothes (including socks and underwear, appropriate for the season).

How should my child dress for Forest School?

Fall: base layer of clothing (preferably wool or synthetic, NOT cotton), warm fleece or sweatshirt, warm pants (leggings are not warm enough on their own), crew or knee socks (no ankle socks), waterproof outer layer (rain coat/pants or rain suit), rain boots or other waterproof boots such as hiking (NO Crocs, open toed sandals, slides, or any other shoes that does not completely cover the foot)

Winter: all of the things from Fall, PLUS second layer of clothing for warmth (third layer may be necessary), fleece or wool jacket or sweater for warmth, snow pants, winter coat (waterproof preferred), fully lined winter boots, hat that fully covers head and ears, gaiter or balaklava, water resistant or water proof mittens or gloves.

Spring: same as fall

Summer: appropriate shirt and bottoms, preferably sun shirt or SPF clothing on top, crew or ankle socks, closed toed shoes or hiking sandals (No Crocs, open toed sandals or slides), sun screen (if appropriate), bug spray or bug repellent bracelet or patch, water clothes (can be swimsuit) sent daily.

What if I have more questions?

Please email us or send us a message on Facebook! Being prepared for Forest School is the BEST way to set your child up for success, and we are more than happy to answer any questions or provide any guidance.

What if I cannot provide all the weather appropriate clothing?

We recognize and understand that buying quality weather appropriate clothing is a privilege. Please email us or let us know in person if we can help ensure your child has the appropriate wardrobe for Forest School. We can help provide backup items, source new items, or find alternatives. We are happy to share our clothing lending library, don’t let it go to waste!

Can I donate my child’s outgrown weather clothing?

Yes!! We will gladly accept rain and snow boots, snow clothes, rain coats/pants, rain suits, waterproof gloves and mittens, woolen outerwear, etc. as long as it is in usable condition. You’re welcome to shop for the next size up in our clothing lending library as well!