At forest school, there's no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothes. When children are warm, dry and comfortable, they can focus on exploring, splashing and discovering, instead of feeling cold and uncomfortable.
This guide explains what to wear as the seasons change, so your child is ready for whatever the day brings.
All year round
Whatever the season, your child will need:
- A waterproof coat
- Wellies or sturdy walking boots
- Long sleeves and long trousers, such as jogging bottoms, to protect against nettles, scratches and bites
- A spare set of clothes in a named bag
Autumn
Autumn brings crisp mornings, falling leaves and plenty of puddles. The weather can change quickly, so layers are key.
- Waterproof trousers or an all-in-one suit for muddy, puddle-filled days
- A long-sleeved top with a fleece over it, easy to add or take off
- A hat and gloves for colder mornings
- Warm socks inside wellies
Winter
Winter sessions can be magical, with frosty leaves and icy puddles to explore. Keeping warm comes first, and several thin layers trap heat better than one thick one.
- A warm, waterproof coat
- Layers, such as a vest, one or two long-sleeved tops and a fleece
- Thermal or waterproof trousers over jogging bottoms
- A hat and gloves
- Thick socks inside wellies or boots
Spring
Spring is full of new growth, busy minibeasts and sudden showers. It can be chilly one moment and warm the next, so thinner layers work well.
- A waterproof coat for April showers
- Waterproof trousers for wet, muddy ground
- A long-sleeved top with a light fleece or jumper
- A hat and gloves on cooler days
Summer
Summer sessions are warm and full of life. Long sleeves and trousers still matter, as they protect against the sun, nettles and insect bites.
- A light, long-sleeved top and jogging bottoms, with a thin layer such as a fleece
- A sun hat
- Sun cream, put on before you arrive
- Insect repellent, if needed
- A waterproof coat, just in case
- A named water bottle
For grown-ups
At Stay and Play, you'll be outdoors alongside your child, sitting on logs, kneeling in the mud and joining in. Dress for the weather just as you would for them.
- A waterproof coat and wellies or sturdy boots
- Clothes you don't mind getting muddy
- Warm layers, a hat and gloves in colder months
- A bag for muddy clothes on the way home
Top tips
- Name everything. Muddy wellies all look the same!
- It doesn't need to be expensive. Hand-me-downs, charity shops and supermarket puddle suits all work well.
- Layers are best. They're easy to add or take off as the weather changes.
What about the weather? Forest school goes ahead in all weather conditions unless it's unsafe, such as high winds or lightning storms. We check the weather carefully before every session, and we'll always let you know if a session can't go ahead.
Come and join us
Now you know what to wear, we'd love to see you outdoors. Register your interest, or ask about a free taster session.
Register your interest Explore our sessions