Research
Formal Evaluation of ReTribe programming
by Pia Houseal-Allport, MSS, LSW
Doctor of Social Work Candidate at Millersville University:
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
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Nature-Based Play and Learning Literature Review
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Forest Days Case Studies by Amy Powers ​​​
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Children and Nature Network - Peer reviewed research articles
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Outdoor Play Boosts Children's Performance in Class
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Risk Deficit Disorder: Independent Play as Important as good Nutrition-Study Finds
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Thoughts on Vegas and Why Men Keep Doing This.
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Position statement on outdoor active play - Nature School in Canada​
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Wild-Learning.net - a website listing research papers about Forest Schools
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Increased mental health because of green space exposure
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