
WildSparks Forest School
NATURE BASED EDUCATION FROM TOTS to AGE 12
Image courtesy of Freya Hartas
Overall Benefits of Outdoor Forest School:
Physical Development
Boosts gross motor skills like coordination, strength, and endurance while enhancing fine motor muscles.
Heightened Senses
Enhances hand-eye coordination, balance, and auditory discrimination for better sensory acuity.
Emotional Balance
Supports mood stability and reduces stress by decreasing cortisol levels in the brain.
Improved Focus
Encourages sustained attention to tasks through active engagement and movement.
Social Connection
Fosters cooperation, communication, and conflict resolution through creative outdoor play with peers.
Creative Thinking
Inspires problem-solving and independent decision-making through imaginative play and exploration.
“ALL THE FLOWERS OF ALL THE TOMORROWS ARE IN THE SEEDS OF TODAY”
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Trees & Saplings (Families and Tots)
A gentle outdoor immersion for families with young children. Activities include nature crafting, feeding chickadees, exploring the river, and learning about plants through stories and sit spots. Parents are encouraged to engage in discussions on topics that matter most to them, fostering a sense of connection and shared growth.
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The Green Forest (Ages 4-6)
Designed for young children to build comfort and confidence in nature, this program lays the groundwork for exploration, resilience, and curiosity. Activities center on free play, songs, stories, and nature collecting, all while nurturing a sense of awe and wonder. With small group sizes of 4 children per adult and volunteer support, each child receives attentive guidance.
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Little Embers (Ages 7-9)
A community-focused program where children gather around the fire to share stories, ideas, and gratitude. Activities encourage emotional regulation, connection, and an appreciation for values and feelings. This approach helps build healthy communities, resilient environments, and mindful future leaders who care deeply about the natural world.
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Wild Sparks (Ages 10-12)
A dynamic program celebrating children’s adventurous spirit. Activities include fire building, tool making, shelter construction, and tracking, all fostering independence and self-reliance. Sit spots provide moments of reflection, while group activities emphasize character development, agility, gratitude, and community care.