Parents believe that the benefits of a forest school program are greater than any risks involved

An increase in forest nature programs in many countries around the world reflects a growing understanding about children’s need for nature engagement on a regular basis. In most cases, a child’s enrollment in a forest school program is dependent on the parent’s decision. This decision can be influenced by a number of different factors. This study explored parents’ perspectives on how time spent in natural settings might influence their child’s play, learning, and connections with the natural world. The study also sought a better understanding of how to support and advocate for responsive, inclusive land-based programs in the early years.

Fifteen parents of preschool children enrolled in a forest nature program in Canada participated in this study. They completed a survey and participated in follow-up group discussions relating to the amount of time their children spend in nature, their own early childhood experiences in nature, the understanding of the benefits of time in nature, and concerns related to outdoor play.

Approximately one-fourth of the parents felt that their children did not spend enough time in nature; one-fourth felt that they did; and the rest had no particular opinions about their children spending enough time in nature. Most of the parents indicated that their children spent their outdoor time either in a backyard, nearby park, and/or a forest. Several parents noted that their own experiences with nature significantly influenced their interest in having their child participate in the forest nature program. Benefits of the program as identified by the parents include “increased time outdoors, play confidence, risk-taking opportunities, improved health, wellness and the developing seeds of environmental stewardship and reciprocity.” Parents indicated that the benefits far outweighed any risks involved. The lack of educational programs offering forest nature programs or outdoor time in natural settings was identified as a concern.

This research indicates that parents understand the benefits of nature-related experiences for their children and that they want their children to participate in forest nature programs during the early childhood years but that such programs are not readily available.