The Science Behind Forest Schools: What Parents Should Know
The Science Behind Forest Schools: What Parents Should Know
Parents often ask: is a forest preschool just play outside, or is there real learning happening? Research gives a clear answer — time in nature is one of the most powerful ways to support early childhood development.
Here’s what science tells us about how outdoor learning benefits children.
Growing Brains, Naturally
Spending time in natural environments supports brain development in measurable ways. Studies from Stanford University show that exposure to green spaces can reduce stress and improve memory and attention in both children and adults (Stanford News, 2015). Other research from the University of Michigan found that even short interactions with nature improved working memory and cognitive function in preschool-aged children (UMich Study, 2008).
When children watch a butterfly, balance on a log, or collect leaves, their brains are making complex, lasting connections.
Focus and Emotional Regulation
The Harvard Center on the Developing Child emphasizes that outdoor play helps children regulate emotions and improve focus (Harvard ECD, 2023). Nature acts as a reset button, lowering cortisol (the stress hormone) and restoring attention. For families concerned about rising attention challenges in young children, forest school offers a natural way to support concentration and calm.
Physical Health and Immune Strength
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, active play outdoors builds stronger bones, muscles, and coordination while also supporting healthy vitamin D levels (AAP Clinical Report, 2018). Regular outdoor time is also linked to fewer absences in school later on, thanks to stronger immune systems. Parents often notice that children who spend more time outside sleep better too.
Social Skills in the Open Air
Children develop social and emotional strength in unique ways outdoors. A study in the Early Childhood Education Journal found that nature-based programs support higher levels of empathy, cooperation, and resilience (ECEJ, 2017). When children work together to build a fort or create a new game, they practice teamwork and learn to resolve conflicts in real time.
The Value of “Safe Risks”
Child development experts agree that taking age-appropriate risks builds persistence and problem-solving. Balancing on a rock, climbing over a log, or trying something new gives children the chance to face challenges in a safe, supported way. These small moments prepare them for bigger challenges later in life — both academically and socially.
Long-Term Benefits That Last
Forest school graduates often enter kindergarten with stronger independence, curiosity, and self-regulation. European studies, where forest schools have been established for decades, show that these children adapt quickly to traditional classrooms and maintain their love of learning as they grow (Forest School Research, UK 2019).
Closing Thought
Forest schools aren’t just an educational philosophy; they’re backed by science. Decades of research confirm what many parents already feel in their hearts: children are happiest, healthiest, and most ready to learn when they spend time outdoors.
At Greenwood Trail, we combine the power of nature with intentional teaching to give children the strongest foundation for school, and for life.
