Balancing Safety and Freedom
Let’s be honest—when you hear “forest school,” your first thought might be, Wait, so the kids are just… outside all day? Like, in the actual forest? And the answer is yes! Forest schools are all about kids running free, climbing trees, poking around in the dirt, and basically doing all the things that make you think, Is this safe?
But here’s the thing: balancing safety and freedom is at the heart of what we do. So, how do we make sure the kids don’t end up swinging from tree branches like little Tarzans while still giving them the freedom to explore? Let’s dive in!
1. Freedom to Explore (But Let’s Not Lose Anyone, Okay?)
Kids + the great outdoors = pure magic. When you let kids roam in nature, they learn SO much—way more than just staring at an iPad (though no judgment if you need a little screen time now and then). From discovering cool bugs to making mud pies, the freedom to explore helps kids develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and yes, the ability to jump over puddles without falling face-first into them.
That being said, we’re not just turning them loose and hoping for the best. There’s definitely a method to the madness, I promise.
2. Risk vs. Hazard (Or, Why Climbing Trees Isn’t Totally Crazy)
Here’s a fun fact: risk is good! Letting kids take managed risks is a huge part of helping them grow. Climbing a tree? A solid, healthy risk that teaches strength and balance. Walking too close to a ledge? Now that’s a hazard we’re going to avoid. The goal isn’t to wrap kids in bubble wrap, but to teach them how to assess risk themselves.
So yes, we let them climb trees. And yes, we watch them like hawks while doing it. They’ll learn their limits, and we’ll make sure no one ends up stuck in a tree, calling for help (trust me, it happens less than you’d think).
3. Boundaries (AKA, “Stay Where I Can See You, Please”)
Let’s be real: freedom to explore doesn’t mean “run wherever you want and good luck!” We set clear boundaries, like “this tree to that rock is your space” or “stay where you can hear my voice.” Think of it like an invisible fence but way more fun (and way less like a parenting nightmare). Kids still get to feel independent, but we’ve got an eye on them at all times.
The best part? Nature is naturally full of boundaries—trees, rocks, streams. They’re the perfect tools to help kids explore safely without making it feel like we’re always saying "no."
4. Self-Regulation: Let’s Get Those Little Brains Working
One of the coolest things about forest schools is that kids start to learn how to gauge risks on their own. We’re not just the fun police out there saying, “Don’t do that.” Instead, we ask, “Do you think that branch can hold you?” or “What’s your plan if you slip?” (Because trust me, kids love a good plan.) They start to think critically about their actions, and that’s a skill they’ll use long after they’re done climbing trees.
Sure, they might misjudge a jump now and then, but that’s where the learning happens. And, of course, we’re ready with band-aids when needed (because, let’s face it, they’ll need them).
5. Supervision: Keeping a Watchful Eye Without Hovering
We don’t want to be helicopters. That’s not our vibe. Think of us more as friendly eagles—watchful from a distance, but ready to swoop in when needed. We’re constantly scanning the horizon (and tree branches) to make sure the kiddos are safe, but we’re not right on top of them every second.
We’re there to guide them, give them a nudge in the right direction, or sometimes just shout, “Great job!” from across the field. It’s all about giving them space while knowing when to step in.
6. When Things Go Wrong (Because, Let’s Be Real, Sometimes They Do)
Look, things are going to happen. A kid will trip over a rock, someone will get a little too close to a branch, and yes, mud will absolutely be involved. But here’s the beauty of it: kids are resilient. They bounce back. And they learn from it.
We’re here to make sure the bumps and scrapes stay minor, but we also know those little oops moments are part of what makes them stronger and more confident.
7. Big Picture: Building Confidence (and Maybe a Few Dirt-Covered Pants)
At the end of the day, the reason we give kids this freedom is simple: it builds resilience. They figure out what they’re capable of, they learn to problem-solve, and they start to trust themselves. All that while exploring the wonders of nature and coming home a little dirtier—but way more confident.
So, if the thought of your kid climbing trees, jumping over logs, and getting muddy makes you a little nervous, don’t worry—you’re not alone. But trust us, with the right balance of freedom and safety, they’re gaining way more than just dirty clothes. They’re growing, learning, and having an absolute blast doing it.
Final Thoughts Balancing safety and freedom in a forest school is like letting kids roam free with a safety net. They get the adventure, the fresh air, and the sense of independence, while we make sure they don’t wander too far off track. It’s about giving them space to explore, but knowing we’re always there to guide them back when needed.
What are your thoughts on letting kids take risks outdoors? How do you balance freedom and safety with your own little explorers? 🌿✨
