Nature-Based Childcare and Forest Schools 2026

Nature-based childcare immerses children in the outdoors, using nature as the primary classroom. Understanding this approach helps you determine if it's right for your family.

What Is Nature-Based Childcare?

Definition

Nature-based programs:

• Extended time outdoors
• Nature as primary learning environment
• Child-led exploration
• All-weather approach
• Connection to natural world

Types of Programs

Options include:

• Forest schools
• Nature preschools
• Outdoor nurseries
• Farm-based programs
• Hybrid indoor/outdoor

Forest Schools

Origins

History:

• Originated in Scandinavia
• Growing worldwide
• Philosophy-based
• Trained practitioners
• Specific approach

Key Principles

Forest school philosophy:

• Regular, repeated nature access
• Child-led learning
• Holistic development
• Risk-taking appropriate
• Long-term programming

What It Looks Like

Typical day:

• Outdoor throughout (or mostly)
• Rain or shine attendance
• Child-directed exploration
• Small groups
• Skilled facilitation

Benefits of Nature-Based Care

Physical Health

Children gain:

• More physical activity
• Fresh air exposure
• Stronger immune systems
• Better coordination
• Vitamin D

Cognitive Benefits

Nature supports:

• Creativity and imagination
• Problem-solving
• Scientific thinking
• Focus and attention
• Reduced ADHD symptoms

Social-Emotional

Outdoor settings promote:

• Resilience
• Risk assessment
• Self-confidence
• Cooperation
• Emotional regulation

Environmental Connection

Children develop:

• Love of nature
• Environmental awareness
• Stewardship values
• Sense of wonder
• Ecological understanding

Daily Life in Nature Programs

Weather Approach

All-weather policy:

• Go out in most conditions
• Dress appropriately
• Learn from weather
• Only extreme exceptions
• "No bad weather, only bad clothing"

Activities

Typical activities:

• Exploring and wandering
• Building and creating
• Observing wildlife
• Imaginative play
• Physical challenges
• Nature crafts

Schedule Flexibility

Usually:

• Child-paced
• Following interests
• Seasonal focus
• Responsive planning
• Less rigid structure

Facilities

Range from:

• No indoor base
• Shelter or yurt
• Indoor backup space
• Mixed approaches

Finding Nature-Based Programs

Where to Look

Search for:

• "Forest school" near you
• "Nature preschool"
• "Outdoor nursery"
• Nature centers with programs
• Farm-based childcare

Questions to Ask

Ask programs:

• How much time outdoors?
• What's your weather policy?
• What are staff qualifications?
• What's the philosophy?
• Is there indoor space?
• What about bathroom facilities?

Evaluating Quality

Look for:

• Trained forest school practitioners
• Clear philosophy
• Appropriate ratios
• Safety protocols
• Child-led approach

Is It Right for Your Child?

May Thrive If

Children who:

• Love being outdoors
• Active and physical
• Curious about nature
• Handle transitions well
• Enjoy exploration

Consider Carefully If

Your child:

• Needs more structure
• Very sensitive to sensory input
• Prefers indoor activities
• Has health conditions affected by weather
• Needs predictable routine

Adaptations

Many children:

• Adapt over time
• Grow to love outdoors
• Build tolerance
• Develop new skills
• Surprise parents

What You'll Need

Clothing

Essential gear:

• Rain gear (good quality)
• Waterproof boots
• Layers for cold
• Sun protection
• Extra changes
• Outdoor-appropriate clothing

Commitment

Be prepared for:

• Muddy, wet child
• Worn-out clothing
• Weather exposure
• Different approach
• Embracing messiness

Safety Considerations

Risk Assessment

Quality programs:

• Ongoing risk assessment
• Trained staff
• Appropriate challenge
• Clear protocols
• Balance risk and learning

Health Considerations

Programs should address:

• Allergies (bee stings, plants)
• Tick awareness
• Sun protection
• Hydration
• First aid readiness

Supervision

What to expect:

• Appropriate ratios
• Trained outdoor educators
• Clear boundaries
• Active supervision
• Safety awareness

Hybrid Approaches

Indoor/Outdoor Balance

Some programs:

• Substantial outdoor time
• Indoor space available
• Best of both
• Weather backup
• Flexible approach

Nature-Focused Traditional

Centers may:

• Emphasize outdoor time
• Natural materials
• Nature in curriculum
• Less extreme than forest school
• More structure

Key Takeaways

Nature-based care offers:

• Extended outdoor time
• Nature connection
• Physical activity
• Holistic development
• Unique learning

Consider if:

• Your child loves outdoors
• You value nature connection
• You're comfortable with approach
• Program is quality
• Practical considerations work

What to look for:

• Trained staff
• Clear philosophy
• Safety protocols
• Child-led approach
• Quality implementation

Be prepared for:

• Weather exposure
• Muddy children
• Different approach
• Appropriate gear
• Trust the process

Benefits include:

• Physical health
• Cognitive development
• Social-emotional growth
• Environmental connection
• Joy and wonder

Nature-based childcare offers a unique approach that connects children deeply with the natural world while supporting their development in powerful ways.

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What every centre asks you to bring

Whatever else changes between programmes, the supply list barely does. These four turn up on nearly every one.

Best Nap Mat

Wildkin Nap Mat with Pillow and Blanket

Budget: Under $100

Mat, blanket and removable pillow in one roll, and it is machine washable, which is what decides whether a mat survives a year of daily use.

Check price on Amazon

Best Backpack

Skip Hop Sparks Kid's Backpack

Budget: Under $50

Sized for a preschooler rather than a school-age child, so it actually fits a classroom cubby.

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Best Lunch Box

Yumbox Original Leakproof Bento Lunch Box

Budget: Under $50

Leakproof compartments a small child can open unaided, which is the whole test for a daycare lunch.

Check price on Amazon

Best Labels

Name Bubbles Custom Name Labels (95 Labels)

Budget: Under $50

Ninety-five waterproof labels in six sizes. Every centre requires everything named, and this covers a full year.

Check price on Amazon