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PReparing for forest school

Forest school happens in all seasons, in all weather. Learning doesn't just happen in dry/sunny summer weather. Often times, “uncomfortable” weather makes for the best learning and the most engaging activities. To ensure our participants enjoy their experiences at Forest School and are comfortable throughout the day, it’s imperative that they come dressed appropriately for the forecasted weather that day.

 

Not matter the season…

Children should have all of the following essentials when they are attending Forest School, not matter the season or weather.

  • Small well fitting backpack

  • Snacks and lunch (no access to fridge or microwave)

  • 1-2 FULL water bottles

  • Seasonally appropriate clothing (see detailed list below)

  • An extra change of clothes (underwear, socks, base layers)

  • Proper footwear made for running (always close-toed)

  • Hat (season appropriate)

 

The material of your child’s clothing is very important. Cotton is not a suitable material for outdoor adventures in most temperatures. Cotton dries slowly and can cause your child to be chilled when wet. Choose synthetic, wool or silk clothing which breaths well, dries quickly and insulates against the elements.

 

Expensive brand name clothing is not necessary to keep your little one ready for any climate. Thrift stores, market place and getting clothes second hand are all great ways to find quality clothing for a cheaper price. If getting appropriate gear is an issue, please don’t hesitate to speak with one of our educators and we will be happy to help source some or lend some from our lending library.

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Cool Rainy Day Clothing (Fall/Winter/Spring):

  • Base Layer: Synthetic or wool long john shirt and pants; wool socks

  • Mid Layer: Fleece or wool sweater and pants.

  • Outer Layer: Durable, WATERPROOF raincoat and rain-pants; warm toque; waterproof, insulated mittens; waterproof boots (Bogs, Kamik or similar).

  • Extra Layers: 1-2 pairs of wool socks, 1-2 pairs of waterproof insulated mittens; warm toque; mid layer as indicated above; underwear.

  • Optional: Extra boots

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Cool Dry Day Clothing (Fall/Spring)

  • Base Layer: Synthetic or wool long john shirt and pants; wool socks.

  • Mid Layer: Lightweight fleece or wool pants and sweater.

  • Outer Layer: Warm jacket; durable rain-pants, waterproof boots, waterproof mittens; warm toque.

  • Extra Layers: 1-2 pairs of wool socks, 1 pair of waterproof insulated mittens; mid layer as indicated above; underwear.

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Cold Winter Day Clothing:

  • Base layer: Wool or synthetic long john shirt & pants; wool socks.

  • Mid layer: Wool or fleece sweater and pants; fleece or wool neck warmer/balaclava.

  • Outer Layer: Warm, waterproof, windproof and breathable snow suit; warm toque; waterproof insulated mittens; warm waterproof boots.

  • Extra layers: 1-2 pairs of wool socks; warm toque; mid layer, 1-2 pairs of insulated mittens.

  • Optional: Extra boots, hand-warmers, extra snowsuit

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Warm Rainy Day Clothing (Fall/Spring):

  • Base Layer: Lightweight, synthetic material t-shirt and long sleeve; lightweight, synthetic material pants (quick-dry material is ideal); wool socks.

  • Outer Layer: Durable, WATERPROOF raincoat and rain-pants; waterproof boots.

  • Extra Layers: Fleece Sweater; wool socks, toque.

  • Optional: Extra boots

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Warm Dry Day Clothing (Fall/Spring):

  • Base Layer: Lightweight, long pants that can easily be rolled up; t-shirt; lightweight synthetic socks.

  • Outer Layer: Fleece sweater or jacket; closed toe running shoes or hiking boots; sun hat

  • Extra Layers: Extra socks; base layer.

  • Optional: Bug jacket/head net (Spring)

**Please do NOT bring:

  • Toys from home

  • Electronics (iPads, iPods, cellphones, etc.)

  • Pocket knives or tools

  • Anything valuable or special that may be lost or broken.

 

Wildflower is not responsible for any lost, stolen or broken items.

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