
Research

Research shows potential benefits
of programs like Forest School:
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Improved physical stamina, fine and gross motor skills (O’Brien & Murray, 2007)
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Positive identity formation for individuals and communities (Russell et al., 2013)
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Environmentally sustainable behaviours and ecological literacy
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Increased knowledge of environment, increased frequency of visiting nature within families (O’Brien & Murray, 2007)
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Healthy and safe risk-taking
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Improved creativity and resilience
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Improved academic achievement and self-regulation
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Reduced stress and increased patience, self-discipline, capacity for attention, and recovery from mental fatigue (Russell et al., 2013, p. 482)
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Improved higher level cognitive skills (Atchlet, Strayer & Atchley, 2012)
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Improved confidence, social skills, communication, motivation, and concentration (O’Brien & Murray, 2007)
Web Resources and News Articles
Forest Days Case Studies by Amy Powers
Children and Nature Network - Peer reviewed research articles
Outdoor Play Boosts Children's Performance in Class
Risk Deficit Disorder: Independent Play as Important as good Nutrition-Study Finds
Thoughts on Vegas and Why Men Keep Doing This.
Position statement on outdoor active play - Nature School in Canada
Wild-Learning.net - a website listing research papers about Forest Schools
Increased mental health because of green space exposure