Forest School Clothing
When it comes to Forest School, which involves outdoor, nature-based learning, having the right clothing is essential to ensure comfort, safety, and enjoyment, regardless of the weather. Here’s a guide on what to wear:
1. Base Layer - Upper Body
Function: Keeps moisture away from the skin.
Material: Wool or synthetic fabrics (avoid cotton, as it absorbs sweat and can make you cold).
What to wear: Long-sleeved shirt, leggings, or thermal underlayers. In extreme cold, layer up the base layers e.g. 1 to 3 base layers.
2. Mid Layer - Upper Body
Function: Provides insulation and warmth.
Material: Fleece, wool, or down.
What to wear: Fleece jacket, wool sweater, or insulated vest.
3. Outer Layer - Upper Body
Function: Protects from rain, wind, and cold.
Material: Waterproof, windproof, and breathable fabrics like Gore-Tex or other waterproof fabrics.
What to wear: Waterproof jacket,, or a full-body suit (for young children), often with sealed seams to ensure waterproofing.
4. Bottom Layers
Function: Comfort and warmth for legs, plus waterproof for legs..
Material: Thermal layers (wool or synthetic), Cotton or synthetic trousers, waterproofs.
What to wear: Thermals (1-2 layers), lightweight regular trousers and waterproof trousers. Consider overalls, all in one suits and fleece-lined trousers
5. Footwear
Function: Keeps feet dry and supported during outdoor activities.
Material: Waterproof boots, ideally with good insulation and non-slip soles.
What to wear: Wellies for wetter conditions, ideally lined with neoprene for warmth and support, otherwise thermal socks (1-2 pairs) are a must. Sturdy hiking boots for more rugged terrains. Make sure they are breathable and comfortable for long periods.
6. Accessories
Hat: A wool or fleece hat for warmth in cold weather; a sun hat or cap in summer.
Gloves: Waterproof or warm mittens, depending on the season.
Scarf or Neck Warmer: For warmth or protection from the elements.
7. Additional Considerations
Socks: Wool or synthetic thermal socks are best as they keep feet warm and dry.
Rain Suit (for younger children): A full-body waterproof suit can be ideal for toddlers, keeping them dry while they play in puddles and mud.
Layering System: It’s important to dress in layers so that clothes can be added or removed depending on the weather.
Key Principles for Forest School Clothing:
Durability: Children especially need clothes that can withstand rough play, climbing, and muddy conditions. Long trousers are better that shorts throughout the year.
Waterproofing: Wet conditions are common, so it’s crucial to have layers that keep water out.
Breathability: Clothes should allow moisture to escape to avoid overheating.
Comfort: Clothing should allow freedom of movement for active play.
Adults: Remember to consider your own clothing as well as the children’s!
Sun Protection: Remember to consider sun protection including sun creams and hats.
By focusing on clothing that is practical, weather-appropriate, and durable, both children and adults can have an enjoyable experience in a Forest School environment, through experiencing a wide range of weathers and conditions!
