Journal of Education & Social Policy

Forest Schools: An Alternative Learning Approach at the Preschool Age
Vasiliki Karavida, Eleni Tympa, Athina Charissi

Abstract
Children's outdoor play is declining despite the clear interaction between play, learning and child development. Therefore, the children need alternative forms of learning that, among other things, provide them with the opportunity to play outdoors. Forest schools recommend a pedagogical process that takes place in the natural environment, outside the narrow boundaries of the classroom, and seek free, unrestricted learning by promoting the child’s all-round development. Especially for preschool children, their social, motor and mental development is achieved in an experimental way. They combine the pedagogical program, the contract with nature, the research in early childhood and individualized learning opportunities. Learning outdoors can have a positive impact on the physical, cognitive and socio-emotional development of young children.

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