Ep 1 - Adults at Forest School

In this thoughtful lunchtime episode of The Forest School Podcast, Lewis and Gemma explore the role of parents and non-leader adults within Forest School sessions. Recorded live in the woods, the conversation covers how adult involvement shapes children's autonomy, the transition from structured toddler groups to free-flowing nature play, and the subtle power of adult modelling. They unpack how parents' presence, feedback, and willingness to engage (or step back) all influence the dynamic of child-led learning. There’s discussion around embarrassment in craft activities, fixed vs growth mindsets, and the emotional honesty of adult play. Later, they reflect on role models from their pasts, from globe-trotting teachers to martial arts mentors, and how these influences echo in their current work with children. This episode offers gentle but profound insight into how Forest School is as much a space for adult transformation as it is for children’s play.⏱ Chapter Timings:00:00 – Welcome and setting the scene in the woods00:29 – What is the role of a parent or adult at Forest School?01:55 – Contrasting toddler groups and child-led woodland sessions03:15 – The importance of adult feedback and presence04:09 – Modelling play as an adult07:03 – Shame, skill, and the adult fear of looking foolish08:44 – Fixed mindset vs growth mindset in Forest School10:12 – Unexpected transformations in reluctant parents11:46 – Multi-age activities and inclusive design12:41 – TAS, support staff, and their evolving contributions13:56 – School session dynamics and mindset shifts outdoors15:42 – Offering expectations to school staff15:58 – Personal role models and influences from life beyond Forest School18:28 – Martial arts, resilience, and internal motivation21:08 – Wrap-up and how to send in your questions🌱 Keywords: Forest School, outdoor education, nature play, child-led learning, parental involvement, fixed mindset, growth mindset, adult play, reflective parenting, early years education, supporting autonomy, inclusive learning, emotional development🔖 Hashtags:#ForestSchool #NaturePlay #OutdoorLearning #ChildLed #ParentingInNature #GrowthMindset #ReflectivePractice #EarlyYears #InclusivePlay #ForestEducation💬 Get Involved:Got a question or a topic you’d love us to explore? Email us at [email protected]🌐 Find more at:www.theforestschoolpodcast.comSupport the show at www.patreon.com/theforestschoolpodcast