What is Forest Schools

This chapter provides a holistic examination of nature-based early childhood education (NBECE), spotlighting forest schools. Extensive research underscores the benefits of nature experiences for children's growth and development as well as nature-connectedness and ecological identity. As such, NBECE in North America has witnessed over a twofold growth from 2015 to 2020, with continued expansion. A similar trend is observed in the UK, where demand for nature-based education, particularly forest schools, has grown since the 1990s, with a significant surge over the last three years. Amid this recent growth, it is crucial to recognize the enduring existence of nature-centric pedagogies in Indigenous and local communities which begins this chapter's exploration. The discussion covers historical, philosophical, and theoretical underpinnings that have profoundly influenced contemporary forest school curricula, instructional practices, and overall approaches within the NBECE domain.