Most outdoor programs offer short-term experiences or play-based exploration. Forest School is a long-term, skill-building journey that blends academic foundations with wilderness learning. Children learn fire safety, knife skills, navigation, and tracking — while also developing real ecological literacy, community bonds, and a sense of personal responsibility.

This is not a one-off nature day. It’s a yearlong mentoring experience rooted in rhythm, depth, and connection.

Forest School is designed to complement your homeschool curriculum, not replace it. We cover foundational subjects like science, art, language, and math... but through real-world, hands-on experience in the field.

Think of it as your nature-based extension of learning. This is where your child builds practical knowledge, executive functioning, emotional growth, and life skills beyond the books.

Not at all. Forest School is designed for all levels, and we start each year by laying foundational knowledge like trail safety, nature awareness, and forest rules.

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Whether your child is new to nature learning or already loves to build forts and start fires, they’ll be supported exactly where they are.

Yes. Our program structure is flexible, multi-sensory, and supportive of different learning styles. Children who thrive with movement, hands-on learning, and space to regulate often find deep success in Forest School.

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We offer clear boundaries, consistent rhythms, and predictable expectations while making space for autonomy and creative expression. If you have specific concerns or questions, we’re happy to talk through your child’s unique needs.

• Weather-appropriate clothing (layers, boots, rain gear, etc.)

• Backpack with:

  • Water bottle

  • Snack/lunch

  • Journal & pencil (provided at first class)

  • Optional: gloves, nature tools, etc.

• Extra set of clothes (especially during wet or muddy seasons)

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We’ll send a full gear list once you enroll, including seasonal recommendations.

Yes — because they’re taught with great care and supervision.

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Our mentors are highly trained in outdoor risk assessment and follow strict safety protocols. Children are only introduced to fire or knife work when they are developmentally ready and have shown consistent responsibility.

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We teach respect for tools and fire — not fear — and that makes all the difference.

Forest School runs in almost all weather — including rain, cold, and mud. These are valuable parts of the learning experience! However, we will cancel or reschedule for:

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• Lightning

• Flooding

• High winds

• Severe temperature extremes

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If a class needs to be canceled due to weather, families will be notified with as much notice as possible and offered a seasonal make-up day.

We offer occasional trial sessions (if space allows) to get a feel for the program. That said, Forest School works best as a long-term journey — relationships, rhythm, and growth happen over time.

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Please reach out to us at info@thewildschool.org or go to www.thewildschool.org/trialclass to book your trial today.