The Forest School Podcast

Summary:In this episode, we explore the purpose of Forest School as a space for children to engage in free play, build social connections, and experience the joy of childhood without the pressures of traditional, outcome-driven education. Discover why Forest School stands as a community resource, supports mental health, and challenges the idea of “resume-building” for children. Episode Highlights: Free Play vs. Structured Learning: How unstructured play in Forest School supports mental health and holistic growth. Forest School as a Community Resource: The ripple effects of Forest School on families and communities, fostering environmental stewardship and shared values. Beyond Resume-Building: The limitations of an achievement-focused childhood and how Forest School offers a different path. The Mental Health Benefits of Nature-Based Learning: Why time spent in nature is essential for children’s well-being and resilience. Embracing “Pissing About”: The value of unstructured, joyful exploration and why it’s a radical act in today’s productivity-focused world. Timestamps: [00:05] Introduction to the theme: Free play and its role in childhood [05:05] Why treating childhood as resume-building affects mental health [11:51] Forest School as a community asset and environmental stewardship [13:24] The importance of unstructured time in Forest School [18:18] Encouraging outdoor leaders to preserve free play Resources Mentioned: Peter Gray’s Research – Gray’s studies on free play, childhood mental health, and inequality “Free to Learn” by Peter Gray – Gray’s book on childhood play and education Forest School Community Hub – Resources and connections for Forest School leaders Key Quotes: “Forest School isn’t about preparing kids for the future; it’s about giving them the space to experience joy and curiosity right now.” “In a world of metrics and outcomes, Forest School stands as a rare place where children can simply be.” Join the Conversation: How do you incorporate free play into your sessions? Join us on social media and share your thoughts! Find us everywhere:🎙️ Spotify📺 YouTube📻 Apple Podcasts💻 RSS Feed Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with fellow educators to help spread the message of free play and nature-based learning!

Summary In this episode, Lewis explores the biases surrounding verbal and nonverbal communication within the context of forest school training. He discusses the importance of recognizing and addressing these biases to create a more inclusive environment for participants. The conversation delves into various aspects of communication, including play cues, emotional expressions, and the impact of verbal hierarchies. Lewis emphasizes the need for forest school leaders to value nonverbal communication and consider its role in fostering connections among participants. Takeaways The forest school training emphasizes intentional decision-making. Verbal and nonverbal communication biases can impact participant interactions. Non-judgmental approaches are essential in forest school settings. Communication barriers can arise from emotional overwhelm or language differences. Play cues often involve nonverbal communication that should be recognized. Apologies can take many forms beyond verbal expressions. Verbal hierarchies can create barriers in communication with children. Nonverbal communication is a key aspect of forest school leadership. Forest school leaders are uniquely positioned to value nonverbal cues. Reflecting on communication practices can enhance inclusivity. Chapters 00:00 Unpacking Intentional Communication 05:41 Exploring Language Bias in Communication 09:00 The Role of Nonverbal Cues 14:37 Play Cues and Communication Dynamics 17:26 Apologies and Emotional Expressions 20:19 Verbal Hierarchies and Participation 23:42 Nonverbal Communication in Nature 26:39 Reflecting on Practice and Inclusivity 42:13 Exploring Bias in Communication 42:44 Engagement with Participants 43:11 Community and Reflective Practices 43:22 podcast clips rooster.mp3

Summary:In this episode of The Forest School Podcast, host Lewis Ames sits down with Laura Henry-Allain MBE, author, consultant, and creator of the beloved children’s show Jojo & Gran Gran. They explore the importance of representation in early years education, how to create inclusive learning environments, and why conversations about diversity should start early. Laura shares practical advice for parents and educators, emphasizing the power of storytelling in fostering empathy and understanding. Tune in to learn how YOU can make a difference in your classroom, Forest School, or home learning environment. Key Takeaways: The role of diverse stories in shaping children's understanding of the world. How to introduce age-appropriate conversations about race and inclusion. Practical ways to make your learning environment a space where every child feels seen. The “mirrors, windows, and sliding doors” approach to representation in books. Why outdoor educators should consider diverse experiences when designing activities. Timestamps: [01:26] – Laura introduces herself and her journey in early years education. [03:19] – The creation of Jojo & Gran Gran and its impact on diverse storytelling. [07:06] – Discussing the importance of diversity in books and media for children. [14:03] – Why it’s crucial to talk about race with young children. [18:02] – How parents can be anti-racist role models through everyday actions. [27:15] – Laura’s guide for early years educators on promoting inclusion. [37:47] – Reflections on Laura's grandmother’s legacy and its influence on her work. Guest Information:Laura Henry-Allain MBE is a celebrated author and early years consultant known for her work in children's media and literature. She is the creator of the TV series Jojo & Gran Gran, which highlights the importance of familial bonds and cultural representation. Laura has written several books that explore themes of inclusion and diversity, such as My Skin, Your Skin. Connect with Laura on her website laurahanryelaine.com. Links to Resources Mentioned: Jojo & Gran Gran (TV Series) My Skin, Your Skin by Laura Henry-Allain MBE Research on early childhood development and race recognition Call to Action:Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to The Forest School Podcast and leave us a review! Share this episode with fellow educators and parents to help spread the message of inclusion in early years education. Follow the links to listen: 🎙️ Spotify 📺 YouTube 📻 Apple Podcasts 💻 RSS Feed

In this enlightening conversation, Lewis Ames is joined by Kirk Martin from the Calm Parenting Podcast to delve into the powerful tool of scripting in parenting—especially when dealing with strong-willed children. They explore how pre-planned scripts can offer parents practical phrases to navigate emotionally charged situations, while helping kids feel understood and secure. The episode emphasizes the importance of modeling language and behavior, maintaining consistency, and adjusting scripts as needed. Key takeaways include strategies for balancing authority and empathy, understanding emotional responses, and the role of curiosity and tone in effective communication. If you're a parent, educator, or outdoor leader looking for actionable tips, this episode offers insight into how scripting can transform your approach in challenging moments. For more insights, visit www.theforestschoolpodcast.com and join us on Patreon for exclusive content! Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Kirk and Calm ParentingLewis introduces Kirk Martin, the host of Calm Parenting Podcast, and highlights his approach to working with children through nonviolent communication and practical scripts. 04:34 – Understanding Strong-Willed ChildrenKirk dives into the characteristics of strong-willed kids and why traditional parenting techniques often backfire with them. 07:33 – The Importance of Scripting in ParentingLearn how using pre-planned scripts can help parents stay calm and provide consistency in tricky situations. Kirk shares examples of go-to phrases that make kids feel heard. 10:36 – Practical Applications of ScriptingKirk and Lewis discuss how to adapt these scripts to various parenting or teaching scenarios, including outdoor learning environments. 13:32 – Modeling Language for KidsThey explore the importance of parents and educators modeling the kind of respectful, calm communication they expect from children. 16:40 – Consistency in Parenting ApproachesKirk explains how sticking to scripts and being consistent with boundaries helps children feel safe and secure. 22:27 – Navigating Emotional ResponsesWhat do you do when kids' emotions are running high? Kirk talks about using scripts to acknowledge kids’ feelings while guiding them through their emotions. 25:30 – Scripts for Effective CommunicationDiscover specific scripts that can diffuse tense moments and help children open up in more productive ways. 28:13 – Using Humor and Relatability in ScriptsKirk emphasizes the importance of humor in scripts to make communication feel lighter and more relatable to children. 31:15 – Creating Space for Processing IdeasThe value of giving kids space after you use a script, allowing them time to think and calm down. 34:11 – The Dynamics of Parenting and CommunicationThey discuss the flow between authority and empathy in parenting and teaching, and how scripts can strike the perfect balance. 37:12 – Scripting Conversations: The Art of Flow ChartsKirk shares how you can think of scripts like flow charts, with different responses depending on how the child reacts. 39:42 – When Scripts Fail: Embracing AuthenticityKirk discusses the importance of flexibility—sometimes scripts don’t work, and that’s okay. Authentic responses have their place too. 43:43 – Physical Movement and Emotional Processing"Motion changes emotion." Learn how getting kids physically active can help them work through emotional responses. 47:48 – Curiosity and Active Listening in Conflict ResolutionKirk and Lewis explore how curiosity can be a game-changer in de-escalating conflicts. Ask questions like, "What’s frustrating you the most right now?" 52:24 – The Power of Honesty and Tone in CommunicationHow being honest and using the right tone in your scripts can foster deeper connections and better emotional regulation in kids. 56:39 – Understanding Emotional Responses and ValidationThe episode wraps up with a focus on validating emotions and helping children feel understood, even when they're struggling to express themselves. For more helpful advice and resources, be sure to visit www.theforestschoolpodcast.com, and support the show on Patreon for exclusive content and perks! Links to Resources: Check out Kirk Martin’s Calm Parenting Podcast for more of his advice and insights: www.calmparentingpodcast.com Learn more about the Forest School Podcast: www.theforestschoolpodcast.com Don't forget to subscribe to the Forest School Podcast on your favorite platform for more tips, strategies, and insights into parenting, outdoor education, and alternative learning approaches!

Episode Summary:In this episode, we chat with Kendra McWilliam about making Forest School accessible to people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Kendra shares her insights on adapting sessions for diverse needs, running intergenerational projects, and securing funding for community-driven outdoor projects. You’ll learn actionable strategies to transform YOUR sessions into more inclusive and engaging spaces. Main Points & Timestamps: [02:45]: Understanding the Barriers to Inclusivity – Kendra discusses common barriers that prevent people from accessing Forest School and how to identify and address them. [07:10]: Creating Intergenerational Projects – The benefits of bringing together different age groups to build community and share skills. [15:32]: Adapting Sessions to Meet People Where They Are – Examples of flexible session formats, from home-based sessions to urban settings. [22:18]: Strategies for Securing Grant Funding – How Kendra’s team won a £58,000 grant and advice for others looking to fund their projects. [30:47]: Balancing Sustainability and Accessibility – Blending paid services with grant-funded programs to support long-term project goals. Guest Introduction:Kendra McWilliam is an experienced Forest School practitioner who focuses on making nature-based education accessible to everyone, regardless of age or ability. She’s been running inclusive community projects for over a decade and is passionate about building spaces where everyone feels welcome and engaged. Resources Mentioned: Kendra’s Community Project Website Grant Application Tips and Tools Call to Action:If YOU found this episode helpful, make sure to subscribe and leave us a review! Follow us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts to catch new episodes every week, and check out the full show notes on our website.

Summary In this episode of the Forest School Podcast, Lewis discusses various aspects of outdoor education, focusing on cooking, bushcraft skills, and the importance of continuous learning. He shares insights from his books, 'Forest School Cooking' and 'The Myths of Outdoor Play and Learning', and offers practical tips for engaging children in outdoor play, especially during winter. The conversation emphasizes the value of peer learning, practical skills, and the importance of reflection in personal growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview of Bushcraft Skills 08:10 Engaging Kids in Outdoor Play During Winter 08:37 Reflecting on Learning from Experience 15:14 Creating a Culture of Continuous Learning 17:11 Fire Lighting Techniques and Best Practices 23:29 Mastering Knots and Practical Applications 26:53 Identifying Flora and Fauna 30:13 Knife Skills and Practical Projects 31:34 The Importance of Practical Projects 35:37 Building Skills Through Repetition 40:58 The Value of Peer Learning 44:46 Reflecting on Progress and Skills 45:43 podcast clips - fart end.mp3 45:52 Patreon 5.mp3

Have you ever wondered what small changes could make a huge impact in your mud kitchen setup? In this episode, Lewis and Wem dive into their quirky, practical, and unconventional tips for transforming your mud kitchen into a space of creativity, independence, and fun! Timestamps: [00:02] – Jangly energy and funny rain stories. [03:00] – Talking about animals in messy homes: humor in parenting. [05:31] – First mud kitchen tip: Eyelet-punched tea towels. [08:30] – The importance of sensory play in the mud kitchen. [09:45] – What counts as a mud kitchen? The variety of setups. [13:00] – Creating multiple eating spots for kids in the mud kitchen. [19:00] – Recipe posters: Are they helpful or harmful to play? [27:40] – Cleaning the mud kitchen: Brushes, hooks, and “wok brushes.” [32:00] – How hooks everywhere can revolutionize tidying up. [39:00] – Introducing currency in mud kitchens: Wood cookie money. [44:00] – Foraged items in the mud kitchen: Bringing nature into play. Referenced Works: The Tiger Who Came to Tea by Judith Kerr

Do traditional school structures harm neurodivergent students? Can nature-based learning be the solution? In this episode, we dive deep into how Forest Schools can create more inclusive environments for neurodivergent learners. Our guest shares groundbreaking research on the benefits of nature for autistic students, challenges the romanticization of outdoor spaces, and discusses how autonomy, trust, and competence play key roles in educational success. How can you ensure you're not unintentionally causing harm? Are your Forest School practices as inclusive as they could be? Tune in to discover practical strategies for creating a truly inclusive, nature-based educational setting. Chapter Titles & Timing: Intro and Guest Background (00:00 - 05:30) Visit theforestschoolpodcast.com for more insights. Autism, Nature, and Forest Schools (05:31 - 15:45) What’s the intersection of nature and neurodivergence? The Challenges of Outdoor Learning (15:46 - 25:00) How do we avoid romanticizing nature and ignoring reality? Autonomy and Trust in Outdoor Education (25:01 - 35:20) Can children truly experience autonomy outdoors? Ensuring Inclusivity in Forest Schools (35:21 - 45:10) Why inclusivity goes beyond just being outdoors. The Future of Forest Schools and Research (45:11 - 55:40) Referenced Works: Practitioner perspectives on nature-based learning for autistic children Samantha Friedman ORCID Icon, Scott A. Morrison ORCID Icon & Allison Shibata Published online: 19 Sep 2024 (https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00958964.2024.2401785) Michael James, “Forest School Handbook” (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Forest-School-Autism-Practical-Guide/dp/1785922912) Sinead O’Brien, Autism and Nature Research (Link to relevant studies)

Are we doing our children a disservice by always saying "yes"? In this thought-provoking episode of The Forest School Podcast, hosts Lewis and Wem dive deep into the complexities of creating a balanced learning environment in outdoor education. They explore the concept of a "yes environment" and its potential pitfalls, drawing inspiration from Suzanne Axelson's work. But what does this mean for your forest school practice? How can you strike the right balance between freedom and structure? The hosts discuss the importance of modeling appropriate responses to frustration and disappointment. Are you equipping your learners with the tools to handle life's inevitable "no's"? Lewis and Wem also touch on the fascinating differences in how boys and girls are taught to express disagreement. How might this impact your approach to teaching emotional regulation in the outdoors? This episode offers valuable insights for both new and experienced forest school practitioners. How will you apply these ideas to create a more nuanced and effective learning environment? Remember to visit theforestschoolpodcast.com for more resources and to join the conversation! Chapter Titles & Timing: 0:00 - Introduction: The 'Yes' Environment Dilemma 5:03 - Modeling 'No': A Delicate Balance 12:28 - The Squirrel Interruption: Nature's Reminder 18:41 - Emotional Responses in Different Settings 27:26 - Designing Spaces for Authenticity 34:25 - When Adults Lose Control: Modeling Recovery 38:20 - Conclusion: Risk-Assessing Your 'Yeses' For more in-depth discussions on forest school practices, head over to theforestschoolpodcast.com. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review if you found this episode valuable! Looking to dive deeper into these concepts? Visit theforestschoolpodcast.com for exclusive content and resources to enhance your forest school practice.

Support the podcast at www.patreon.om/theforestschoolpodcast Can Forest Schools deliver on their promises in urban environments? Guest Info: https://emmabrockes.com/ Join hosts Lewis Ames and Wem Southerden as they dive into a thought-provoking conversation with journalist Emma Brockes about her recent Guardian article on Forest Schools. Explore the challenges of implementing authentic outdoor education in city settings, the marketing pressures schools face, and the importance of communicating Forest School's unique pedagogy. This episode offers valuable insights for educators, parents, and anyone interested in nature-based learning. Visit theforestschoolpodcast.com for more resources on outdoor education. Chapter Titles & Timing: 00:00 - Introduction and Emma's Forest School experience 05:30 - The allure of Forest Schools for urban parents 12:15 - Challenges of implementing Forest School in cities 18:45 - Marketing vs. reality: Are schools overpromising? 25:20 - Communicating Forest School's deeper pedagogy 31:40 - The future of Forest Schools and outdoor education For more episodes and exclusive content, head to theforestschoolpodcast.com. 38:10 - Closing thoughts and practical applications Don't forget to share your Forest School experiences at theforestschoolpodcast.com!

Support the podcast, get in touch and find more episodes at www.theforestschoolpodcast.com Summary In this episode of The Forest School Podcast, Lewis Ames explores the fascinating world of owls. He shares interesting facts about owl sizes, adaptability, legs, silent flight, vision, hearing, vocalizations, intelligence, family dynamics, hunting behaviors, diets, and conservation challenges. Owls play a crucial role in ecosystems by controlling rodent populations. Conservation efforts, education, and ambassador owls are helping to protect and raise awareness about these incredible birds. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Gratitude 01:41 The Astonishing Diversity of Owls 03:03 The Secrets of Owl Legs and Silent Flight 04:56 The Marvels of Owl Vision and Hearing 06:22 The Fascinating World of Owl Vocalizations 09:08 The Intelligence and Family Dynamics of Owls 11:30 The Intriguing Hunting Behaviors of Owls 15:15 The Challenges Facing Owls in the Modern World 18:10 The Importance of Owl Conservation and Education

What if the great outdoors was your ultimate fitness playground? Join hosts Lewis Ames and Wem Southerden as they explore the world of outdoor movement and fitness with Andrew and Gill from Wild Strong. Discover how reconnecting with nature can transform our approach to exercise, build community, and challenge traditional fitness norms. This episode is packed with insights for educators, parents, and anyone looking to bring more playful, natural movement into their lives. Chapter Titles & Timing: 00:00 - Introduction to Wild Strong 05:34 - Breaking the Gym Mold: Nature as Your Playground 10:41 - The Power of Play in Adult Fitness 15:23 - Challenging 'Correct' Movement Myths 20:50 - Building Community Through Outdoor Exercise 25:35 - Risk Assessment in Natural Settings 30:12 - Affordances: Seeing Movement Opportunities in Nature 35:48 - Family Dynamics in Outdoor Fitness 40:20 - Practical Tips for Educators and Parents 45:15 - Wrapping Up and Resources Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to visit theforestschoolpodcast.com for more resources on outdoor education and natural movement. Whether you're an educator looking to incorporate more outdoor activities or a parent seeking ways to get your family moving in nature, this episode offers valuable insights and practical ideas. Don't forget to check out theforestschoolpodcast.com for show notes, links to resources mentioned, and to leave your feedback on this episode. Your input helps shape future content! For more information on Wild Strong and their approach to outdoor fitness, visit their website at wildstrong.co. Remember to visit theforestschoolpodcast.com to join the conversation and share your own experiences with natural movement and outdoor learning.

Join hosts Lewis Ames and Wem Southerden as they explore the fascinating world of "muddy memories" in outdoor education. Discover how these not-quite-accurate recollections might play a crucial role in fostering deep connections with nature. Learn practical strategies for educators and parents to navigate and nurture these magical moments. For more thought-provoking discussions on outdoor education, visit theforestschoolpodcast.com. Chapter Titles & Timing: 00:00 - Introduction: The Power of Muddy Memories 05:47 - Childhood Imagination and Nature Connection 13:29 - Lessons from Dementia Care for Educators 19:00 - The Ethics of "Nature Gaslighting" 25:28 - Why Forests Fuel Our Imagination 29:42 - Navigating Conflicts in Outdoor Settings 34:45 - The Magic of "What If" in Nature Education Dive deeper into forest school philosophy and practice at theforestschoolpodcast.com. 41:00 - Practical Tips for Educators and Parents 47:30 - Conclusion: Embracing the Magic of Muddy Memories For more resources and to join the conversation, head to www.theforestschoolpodcast.com. Remember to like, subscribe, and share this episode with fellow outdoor enthusiasts!

How can we foster a truly non-judgmental environment in Forest School without compromising on safety and boundaries? Description: Join Lewis and Wem as they dive deep into the complexities of creating and maintaining non-judgmental spaces in Forest School settings. From handling personal biases to addressing challenging behaviors, this episode explores the delicate balance between acceptance and setting necessary boundaries. Discover practical strategies for fostering a community where everyone feels safe to express themselves authentically. Visit theforestschoolpodcast.com for more insights on Forest School practices! Chapter Titles & Timing: 0:00 - Introduction: The Challenge of Non-Judgment 5:18 - Cultural Kombucha: Building a Non-Judgmental Community 11:14 - Balancing Praise and Judgment 20:49 - The Impact of Judgment in Safe Spaces 27:20 - Modeling Self-Compassion and Mistake Ownership 34:30 - Non-Judgment vs. Permissiveness: Finding the Balance For more episodes on creating inclusive Forest School environments, head to theforestschoolpodcast.com. 39:02 - Closing Thoughts and Listener Engagement Don't forget to check out theforestschoolpodcast.com for additional resources and to join our community of Forest School enthusiasts!

Join Lewis and Wem as they explore the challenges and strategies of facilitating adult relationships in forest school settings. From icebreaker questions to creating non-judgmental spaces, this episode dives into the complexities of fostering community among grown-ups in nature-based education. Chapter Titles and Timing: Potato-Based Introductions (00:01 - 05:02) The Art of Icebreaker Questions (05:02 - 15:22) Facilitating Adult Interactions with Children Present (15:22 - 24:37) Setting Expectations and Creating Adult-Friendly Spaces (24:37 - 29:52) The Unique Container of Forest School for Adult Play (29:52 - 35:13) Key Takeaways: The importance of crafting questions that allow for varying levels of engagement Balancing adult experiences with childcare responsibilities in family sessions Creating adult-friendly spaces within child-centered environments The challenges of overcoming societal expectations for parents to be "martyrs" Forest school as a unique environment for adults to play and connect Links: Website: www.theforestschoolpodcast.com Patreon: www.patreon.com/theforestschoolpodcast

Support the podcast and get bonus content today at www.patreon.com/theforestschoolpodcast Find part 2 at https://www.wildlingsforestschool.com/raisingwildlingsAnd give them a follow on their socials:- https://www.facebook.com/share/317yVGUXFPSJPwTb/- https://www.instagram.com/wildlings_forestschool?igsh=MTlxeDN6ZnVzdXFudw== In this episode, The Forest School Podcast collaborates with Nicky Farrell from Wildlings in Australia. They discuss the importance of lifelong learning in the context of forest school education. They explore how being passionate about learning and nature can drive educators to continuously seek new knowledge and experiences. They also discuss the challenges of being a lifelong learner, such as the pressure to conform to traditional educational systems. The conversation highlights the importance of modeling learning for children and creating a supportive community of learners. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Collaboration with Raising Wildlings Podcast 02:56 Passion for Learning and Nature in Forest School 06:12 Challenges of Being a Lifelong Learner 09:13 Modeling Learning for Children in Forest School 12:00 Building a Supportive Community of Learners in Forest School 25:37 Contemplating the Moral Implications of Overdramatizing Slugs 29:35 The Shift from Rote Memory to Practical Application of Knowledge 37:37 Conclusion and Invitation to Listen to the Second Half on Raising Wildlings Podcast

Support The Forest School Podcast on Patreon for bonus episodes and ad-free episodes at ⁠ www.patreon.com/theforestschoolpodcast⁠ 🌲🎧. Leave this episode a review on your podcast player! Find out about our sessions and Forest School Leader Training in Devon, UK at www.children-of-the-forest.com Summary In this conversation, Wem and Lewis discuss the concept of encouragement and its potential negative effects. They explore the idea that sometimes encouragement can be seen as ableism, as it may push individuals beyond their limits and lead to burnout or shutdown. They discuss the importance of listening to people's boundaries and needs, especially children, and not pressuring them to do more than they are capable of. They also touch on the role of caregiver attunement in providing appropriate support and opportunities for growth. The conversation highlights the need for nuance in offering encouragement and the importance of considering power dynamics and hierarchy in adult-child relationships.Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Tone 00:58 Exploring the Topic of Ableism and Encouragement 06:08 Reflecting on Capacity and Presuming Competence 11:05 The Impact of Encouragement in School and Forest School Settings 19:01 Caregiver Attunement and Offering Opportunities 20:33 The Holistic Nature of Forest School and Developing Relationships 30:51 Different Approaches to Encouragement and Reflecting on Hierarchy 35:16 The Role of Nonchalance and Reflecting on Encouragement 38:32 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Support The Forest School Podcast on Patreon for bonus episodes and ad-free episodes at ⁠ www.patreon.com/theforestschoolpodcast⁠ 🌲🎧. Leave this episode a review on your podcast player! Find out about our sessions and Forest School Leader Training in Devon, UK at www.children-of-the-forest.com Summary In this conversation, Lewis and Wem discuss the dynamics of play and ownership in a Forest School setting. They explore topics such as sharing, turn-taking, and the challenges of navigating ownership without physically touching or being in a play space. They also discuss the role of Forest School leaders in mediating conflicts and facilitating play. The conversation raises questions about the introduction of metacognition and communication about play, and the potential impact on the flow and authenticity of play experiences.

Support The Forest School Podcast on Patreon for bonus episodes and ad-free episodes at ⁠ www.patreon.com/theforestschoolpodcast⁠ 🌲🎧. Leave this episode a review on your podcast player! Find out about our sessions and Forest School Leader Training in Devon, UK at www.children-of-the-forest.com — Guest Info: https://www.muddypuddleclub.co.uk/ instagram: @muddypuddlelizzie — In this episode, the hosts discuss the documentary 'Queer Planet' and explore the concept of queer ecology. They talk about the tone of the documentary, the representation of queerness in nature, and the erasure of queer history in outdoor education. They also discuss the role of chosen families in nature and the importance of using inclusive language in nature connection. The hosts highlight examples of queer behavior in animals, such as penguins and flamingos, and discuss the impact of gender stereotypes in nature documentaries. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the concept of queer ecology and its implications for understanding nature and human identity. They explore the idea that nature is not inherently heterosexual or binary, but rather diverse and adaptable. The hosts highlight examples of queer behavior in the animal kingdom, such as same-sex mating and gender fluidity. They also discuss the importance of using inclusive language and challenging societal norms when talking about nature. The conversation emphasizes the need to normalize queer experiences and perspectives in the study and appreciation of the natural world. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Patreon Support 02:37 Introducing Lizzie Wilde and Queer Planet Documentary 05:02 The Playful Tone of the Documentary 06:36 Critique of the Documentary's Focus on Sexuality 08:02 Lizzie Wilde's Work in Forest School and Queer Ecology 09:28 Understanding Queer Ecology and its History 13:05 The Impact of Queer Ecology on Society 15:22 Examples of Queer Behavior in Animals 17:43 Chosen Families in Nature and Forest School 23:22 The Influence of Victorian Culture on Nature Perception 25:40 Historical Erasure of Queer Observations in Nature 27:08 Gender Stereotypes and Pronouns in Nature Connection 29:24 Using Real-Life Examples to Challenge Gender Norms 32:23 The Importance of Inclusive Language in Nature Education 34:15 Masculine and Feminine Approaches to the Outdoors 36:05 Using Pronouns to Connect with Nature 41:40 Mother Trees and Queer Communities 44:03 Challenging Heteronormativity in Nature 45:24 Affectionate Male Lions and Polyamorous Lions 51:35 Seahorse Dads and Queer Romance 53:52 Queer Behavior in the Animal Kingdom 58:19 Yew Trees and Gender Adaptability 01:05:15 Nature's Adaptability and Human Response to Climate Change

Support The Forest School Podcast on Patreon for bonus episodes and ad-free episodes at ⁠ www.patreon.com/theforestschoolpodcast⁠ 🌲🎧. Leave this episode a review on your podcast player! Find out about our sessions and Forest School Leader Training in Devon, UK at www.children-of-the-forest.com SummaryThe Forest School Podcast attended the International Forest School Research Symposium at the University of Liverpool. They interviewed researchers and practitioners about their experiences and findings. Topics discussed included the benefits of Forest School for parents' mental health, the use of qualitative research methods, and the importance of research in informing Forest School practice. The symposium provided a platform for sharing research and networking among academics and practitioners in the Forest School community. The conversation in this part of the podcast revolves around the Forest School Symposium in Liverpool. The participants discuss their excitement about the research being presented and the need for evidence to support the benefits of Forest School. They also talk about the role of research in advocating for Forest School and the importance of speaking the language of education. The conversation touches on themes such as neurodivergent young people, access to nature, long-term effects of Forest School, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration. The Forest School Podcast team reflects on their experience at the Forest School Research Symposium. They discuss the various presentations and topics covered, including the impact of Forest School on parents' mental health, the role of forest school leaders in creating micro communities, the importance of the forest as an entity, and the challenges and successes of implementing forest school in different countries. They also highlight the contributions of the FSA team and volunteers in organizing the symposium. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Symposium Overview 10:48 Opening Address by Dr Sarah Knight 29:31 Interviews with Researchers and Practitioners 44:04 Celebrating and Supporting Research on Forest School 45:04 Advocating for Forest School through Research 51:49 The Impact of Forest School on Neurodivergent Young People 56:24 Improving Access to Nature through Forest School 01:13:10 The Role of Forest School in Occupational Therapy 01:19:24 Supporting Parents' Mental Health through Forest School 01:25:24 Enhancing Mental Bandwidth and Problem-Solving Skills in Forest School 01:28:19 Aligning with Institutional Values in Forest School 01:29:13 Observing Actions and Activities in Forest School 01:30:55 The Impact of Forest School on Parents' Mental Health 01:35:36 The Role of Forest School Leaders in Creating Micro Communities 01:38:01 The Forest as an Entity: Its Importance in Forest School 01:47:14 Challenges and Successes of Implementing Forest School in Different Countries 01:49:59 The Contributions of the FSA Team and Volunteers in Organizing the Symposium