Child in the Wild: Forest School for All

The JTYAF is proud to support Hayley’s wonderful Child in the Wild Forest School by funding sessions for families who might not otherwise be able to enjoy the benefits of outdoor play and learning. We have recently supported a course of eight sessions for six families.  For many, these sessions are a lifeline, particularly where a child’s SEND needs make it difficult for parents to work and access regular, inclusive activities.

Inclusivity sits at the heart of everything Hayley and her team do, and they welcome all children to the woods. Activities are designed to be fun, flexible and engaging, supporting children’s physical, intellectual, social, emotional and spiritual development in different ways. Forest School is a relaxed environment where children can choose how they take part. Activities are always optional, and free play is (almost) always an alternative. As Hayley puts it: ‘There are countless studies where researchers have found many incredible benefits of outdoor play and learning, and you only have to step into nature, close your eyes, and listen for a few minutes, to feel the evolutionary, calming feeling of connection to our wonderful wild world.’

​Hayley shared one story that captures the impact these funded sessions can have: ‘One mum was almost in tears when I offered her some funded sessions. She recently lost her job because she now has to care for her daughter full time, as her daughter’s SEND needs are so high she cannot cope in school. Forest School acts as a respite for mum and she gets to socialise with other people who understand. Her daughter feels safe and comfortable enough to actually join in and be independent from her mum during sessions. I will never stop being thankful to the JTYAF!’