What is Forest School?

Forest School is a child-centered, nature-based learning approach where the outdoors is our classroom.

At River Hills Forest School, we believe that children thrive when they have the time, space, and freedom to explore the natural world around them. Forest School gives children the opportunity to learn through hands-on experiences in nature—climbing, building, exploring, problem-solving, and creating—at their own pace and in their own way.

This approach encourages:

• 🌿 Confidence – As children take safe, supported risks and overcome challenges.

• 🌱 Independence – Through child-led exploration and decision-making.

• 🐛 Curiosity & Wonder – Sparked by time spent observing wildlife, weather, and the changing seasons.

• 🧠 Deep Learning – As children revisit, reflect, and expand on their experiences over time.

Unlike traditional classrooms, learning in the forest is emergent—we follow the children’s interests and support their growth through storytelling, sensory play, movement, and relationship-building in the natural world.

Forest School is not just about education—it’s about nurturing the whole child: heart, body, mind, and spirit.

Our Approach

At River Hills Forest School, learning is child-led and play-based. Children spend their days outdoors in all seasons, exploring forests and streams. Our educators observe and support children’s interests, providing gentle guidance and encouragement as they investigate, create, and solve problems.

We believe in the power of unstructured play, meaningful risk-taking, and real-world experiences. Through daily adventures in nature, children build essential skills — critical thinking, teamwork, creativity, and self-confidence.

Safety is a top priority. Our educators are trained to balance freedom with appropriate boundaries, ensuring the children can explore and take risks in a secure environment.

Core Values

We believe in learning through exploration, curiosity, and uninterrupted play in the forest environment.

Wonder

We celebrate the innate curiosity of the children, encouraging them to ask questions, explore, and discover the world around them.

Resilience

Outdoor learning presents challenges and opportunities for growth. We support children as they develop perseverance, adaptability, and confidence.

Community

We create a welcoming space where every child and family feels valued. Collaboration, empathy, and kindness are at the heart of everything we do.

Stewardship

We foster a deep respect for nature, teaching children to care for the environment and understand their role as stewards of the earth.

Inclusivity

We honor diversity and strive to make our programs accessible to all children, regardless of background or ability.

Why Forest School?

Boosts physical health and well being through active outdoor play.

Encourages social skills and empathy through cooperative activities and group reflection

Builds a lifelong connection to nature that inspires care and stewardship.

Fosters independence and self-esteem as children make choices and take responsibility.

Supports cognitive development with hands-on, inquiry based learning.

”My child has blossomed at River Hills Forest School. She comes home excited to share what she’s learned and is more confident in herself everyday!”

-Forest School Parent

“The teachers truly care about each child and create a magical environment for learning and growth.”

-Forest School Parent