Ep 191: What Neurodivergent Kids Gain from Nature with Dr Sam Friedman

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!