A parent's guide to staying warm and dry following the Forest School ethos. Here are my top suggestions for keeping your little explorers comfortable in the woods, whatever the season.
Often when thinking about Forest School or Outdoor Learning sessions all year round the following quote is commonly mentioned:
“There’s no such thing as bad weather… only unsuitable clothing.”
Alfred Wainwright, Coast to Coast (1973)
Since qualifying as a Forest School leader many years ago, I find myself, like others in the field - now reflecting on this mantra. Although the spirit of getting outdoors in all weathers is well intended, it can be seen as a message of all it takes is the right clothing and attitude to spend endless hours outside. Yes, this certainly can help however the reality in my experience is that on some days, the weather will be quite challenging.
Very cold days or very windy days and even very hot days are uncomfortable for some children and although I will still advocate for spending time outdoors, it doesn’t need to become something to be endured. If your child is miserable outdoors despite putting on all the layers and waterproofs – simply shorten the time and try again tomorrow.
Every child is different and their tolerance of all weathers can be different too. As a mum myself of two children I can attest to this! My eldest loves the outdoors and will happily spend long periods of time in nature whatever the weather. My younger child however is quite the opposite; in fact, we often endearingly referred to him being like a ‘house cat.’ Preferring warmer and drier days outdoors. This doesn’t stop us however going outdoors as a family and I will continue to encourage plenty of time in nature!
Immune System Boost
Although it may as a parent feel counter intuitive on a cold or rainy day but getting outdoors in all weathers is beneficial to your child’s healthy development. Research from Finland, (Roslund MI et al., 2020) found that children who play regularly in natural, biodiverse spaces outside develop stronger, better regulated immune systems.
Inspired by the Forest School ethos, Nurturing Wild’s family play sessions and nature walks aim to take place in all weathers, if safe to do so. Many of the youngest children are only just starting to walk and may not yet be able to communicate to us when they are feeling hot or cold. Take time to check in regularly with your child that they are ok. It is important that you carefully monitor your child during the session especially when the weather is very cold or hot.
Parents and carers taking part in Nurturing Wild Nature Play Sessions, the following clothing is recommended:
Please take a common-sense approach as wearing appropriate clothing will help ensure you and your child get the most out the session by being comfortable and happy!
What to Bring:
In addition to the recommended clothing to wear, during our sessions it may be helpful to bring along:
- spare clothes (including socks)
- water bottle and a healthy snack for your child
- seasonal coat with a hood
- sunscreen to reapply when needed
Autumn/Winter
In the colder months, wearing layers is key to keeping warm:
- all-in-one fleece lined waterproof outfit
- thermal vest
- thermal leggings/tights under trousers
- long sleeved top
- thicker fabric e.g. woolly jumper/fleece
- warm hat to cover head and ears
- snood or scarf
- gloves or mittens (on very cold days double up)
- wellies or outdoor footwear with thick socks
Spring/Summer
Although the dry and warm weather will make you want to reach for your summer shorts and t shirts, please dress your child in the suggested items below at Nurturing Wild sessions:
- lightweight waterproof coat with a hood
- lightweight all-in-one e.g. dungaree style (perfect for puddle splashing!)
- long-sleeved top (tuck into trouser waistband)
- light-weight trousers/ leggings (tuck trouser leg into socks)
- wellies or suitable outdoor footwear for walking on uneven ground and water play in the mud kitchen
- sun hat to protect head and eyes
- apply sun cream (SPF 50) before the session
FAQS
Do we need to wear long sleeves and trousers in the summer?
Yes! Long-sleeves and trousers cover your child’s skin from being in contact with typical woodland plants such as stinging nettles and thorny brambles. Outdoors in nature there are insects and the clothing helps to act as a protective barrier.
Can my child wear open-toe sandals at the session?
Open-toe shoes are unsuitable to be worn during Nurturing Wild nature outdoor play sessions even in the summer months. The ground outdoors will be uneven with woodchip, sticks and stones on the paths.
No doubt all of us at some-point have experienced walking with a rock in our shoe, feeling the uncomfortable sensation with every step and imagining it must be huge - only to turn out the boot and find it was a tiny stone! Let’s keep our little one’s toes and feet comfortable by wearing socks and suitable outdoor footwear. ☺
What is the plan on rainy days?
The weather here in the UK, can be unpredictable and change without much notice. On rainy days... we put on our wellies and waterproofs and just like Peppa Pig, we jump in muddy puddles!
A Quick Reminder: This guide is based on my experience of what works best for outdoor play. However, as every child and weather condition is different, please use your own judgement. As a reminder, parents and carers remain responsible for their child's safety and well-being during Nurturing Wild Ltd sessions. I am not a medical professional or an outdoor clothing expert; my suggestions are intended as a helpful starting point for comfortable outdoor nature play.
If you’re unsure about what to pack for a specific forecast, get in touch via the contact form before your session or check the full Terms & Conditions on the booking page
Citation:
Roslund MI, Puhakka R, Grönroos M, Nurminen N, Oikarinen S, Gazali AM, Cinek O, Kramná L, Siter N, Vari HK, Soininen L, Parajuli A, Rajaniemi J, Kinnunen T, Laitinen OH, Hyöty H, Sinkkonen A; ADELE research group. Biodiversity intervention enhances immune regulation and health-associated commensal microbiota among daycare children. Sci Adv. 2020 Oct 14;6(42):eaba2578. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.aba2578. PMID: 33055153; PMCID: PMC7556828.