Preparing your Child for Forest School in Winter
With a new term just beginning and winter fast approaching, you might be asking yourself: “Will my child really enjoy Forest School in the cold and wet?” It’s a natural worry – we all want our children to be safe, comfortable, and happy while they learn.
But here’s the wonderful truth: winter is one of the most magical times for Forest School. Bare branches reveal hidden nests, frosty mornings sparkle with discovery, and puddles, mud, and even snow bring exciting opportunities for play and problem-solving. With the right clothing, your child won’t just cope with the weather… they’ll thrive in it.
“There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.”
The magic of Forest School in winter
Winter is when your child can see the forest in an entirely new way. Animal tracks in the mud, frost patterns on leaves, or the sound of rain on tarpaulins – our educators make seemingly ‘mundane’ spark curiosity and imagination.
Cold days encourage teamwork, like gathering wood for a fire or sharing stories to stay warm. Rainy days inspire creativity, whether that’s den-building or puddle-jumping.
These are the experiences that build resilience, independence, and confidence.
Dressing your child the right way
If you’re worried about the cold, don’t be. The secret to enjoying Forest School in colder months is simple: layering up. At Footprints on the Moon, we give every parent a seasonal kit list to make things easy.
Here’s what to pack for your child:
● Base layers: Thermal tops and leggings to keep warmth close
● Mid layers: Jumpers or fleeces for insulation
● Outer layers: Waterproof coat and trousers to keep the rain and mud out
● Footwear: Wellies or sturdy waterproof boots with thick socks
● Accessories: Hats, scarves, and waterproof gloves to keep the chill away
Layers give your child flexibility. They can peel one off if they get too hot, but they’ll always have enough to stay warm.
Easing concerns for first-time parents
It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous if this is your child’s first Forest School experience in winter. Will they get wet? Too cold? Our educators are trained to keep your child comfortable, safe, and engaged. We plan each session with the weather in mind, provide plenty of warm-up breaks, and often gather around a fire for snacks and storytelling.
And here’s something many parents discover quickly: children love being outdoors in winter. The novelty of waterproofs, the thrill of splashing in puddles, or spotting their own frosty breath in the air often outweighs any initial nerves.
Building confidence and resilience
By embracing winter, your child learns something powerful: challenges don’t have to stop them. A bit of drizzle or patch of mud becomes part of the adventure. This builds adaptability, problem-solving skills, and resilience while they’re laughing, playing, and learning.
You’ll notice the glow on their cheeks, the sparkle in their eyes, and the joy in their stories when they come home. These are the moments that make Forest School so special.
Helping your child flourish this winter
As your child begins this new term, know that with the right preparation, they’ll be warm, dry, and ready for adventure. Winter in the forest is full of magic, and with the right kit, your child will discover it all.
At Footprints on the Moon, we’re here to support you with practical advice, clear kit lists, and the reassurance that your child will be cared for every step of the way.
Ready to see your child thrive this winter? Join us at Footprints on the Moon and let them experience the joy of Forest School in every season.