Are there forest schools for K-5?
I've seen a lot of forest preschools, but are there forest schools for K-5?
I love what forest schools offer - the chance for kids to explore in a kid-friendly environment, a place for kids to learn by pursuing their curiosity, a place for kids to learn about the ecology they live in and about how living things are connected, a chance for kids to get a sense of place and of the unique environment of the bay area. I want my kids to be able to continue this past just the age of 3 or 4 or 5. Are there any forest schools that are offering a nature-based education for elementary school (or beyond?) Not just a few days of "environmental education" or a wilderness trip, but a school that meets in the woods most or all of the time.
Thanks!
Jul 1, 2018
Parent Replies
Moderator note:
A forest school is a preschool-type program for children that takes place exclusively outdoors. These programs often are not licensed because they don't have a permanent indoor site that can be inspected and approved as part of the licensing process. Forest schools without a permanent indoor space have been told by the State of California Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) that they cannot be licensed or that they don't need a license. BPN does not accept posts about unlicensed programs for children under 5. We have written to CCLD to ask whether these outdoor programs can be licensed, because they are becoming increasingly popular and parents ask about them often on BPN. As of Spring 2017, we have received no response from CCLD.
BPN does not accept posts about unlicensed preschool programs for children under 5, including classes or other activities these programs operate that do not require a license. We recommend that parents not use unlicensed programs for their young children, because basic protections for children cannot be assured, including background checks for all adults, safety and first-aid training for staff, and ensuring adult-to-child ratios. For more information about BPN's policy on licensing see About Childcare Licensing in California.
If a forest school accepting only children 5 and older is recommended to this site, we will accept that post, but so far we've seen just preschools, or elementary-age programs that also accept children under age 5.