What Does a Day at Forest School Really Look Like?
Have you ever wondered what a typical day at forest school really looks like? You’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions we hear from parents curious about how nature-based education blends structure, academics, and free play.
While every forest school is unique, most share a common philosophy: that children learn best through hands-on experiences in the natural world.
At Hidden Valley Forest School, our days are intentionally designed to balance rhythm and flexibility, focused learning and open-ended exploration. No two days are exactly alike—and that’s part of what makes it so magical. But there is a gentle, reliable structure that guides us all—children and teachers alike.
We thoughtfully blend indoor academics with immersive outdoor experiences in a way that feels natural to the child and honors their developmental needs.
Here’s a glimpse into a day in the life at HVFS.
Morning Arrival & Settling In
Children arrive ready for the day. We start with gentle transitions—hanging up gear, greeting friends, and engaging in quiet morning invitations like puzzles, drawing, or nature-based provocations.
This peaceful start helps kids ease into the day and feel connected from the beginning.
Morning Academics
Our morning begins in the schoolhouse or outdoor Pavilion, depending on the weather with focused academic work. This includes reading, writing, math, and integrated theme-based lessons.
Our academics are hands-on and responsive, often inspired by what children are noticing outside or wondering about. Whether it’s writing about a fox spotted on a hike or using acorns to solve math problems, learning is meaningful and rooted in real-world curiosity.
Outdoor Free Play at the Playscape
After our morning lesson time, we head out to the playscape—a natural play area filled with opportunities for climbing, digging, building, swinging, and imaginative play. At HVFS, children are given generous time to explore this space, and for good reason: open-ended play is essential to healthy development.
Here, children stretch their bodies, test new ideas, build social skills, and experience the simple joy of unstructured time. It’s a chance to move freely, connect with peers, and just be kids—especially after a focused start to the day.
Lunch in Nature
Lunch is shared picnic-style at our outdoor tables, nestled beneath the Birch and Beech trees and beside our beautiful pond. Mealtime offers a natural pause in the day—a chance to rest, refuel, and connect with friends and teachers.
It’s not uncommon to spot wildlife while we eat: blue herons gliding overhead, turtles sunning on logs, hawks circling above, or even largemouth bass breaking the surface of the water. It’s a truly magical setting for a midday meal—one that turns an ordinary lunch into something unforgettable.
Hike to Magic Creek
After lunch, we set off on our daily hike—most often to Magic Creek, our students’ favorite destination.
There, kids explore, splash, build, and observe. We might study tracks in the mud, watch the water ripple over rocks, or quietly sit and listen. It’s a space that inspires awe and encourages deep connection with the natural world.
Afternoon Project Work or Lesson
Once we return from our adventure, we gather again for an afternoon lesson, project, or reflective activity. This might include science experiments, creative storytelling, group art, or journal writing.
Afternoons feel grounded and calm—children bring their creek discoveries into their work, making connections between what they’ve experienced and what they’re learning.
Routines, Rituals & Transitions
Throughout the day, we use simple, nurturing routines—morning circle, group check-ins, nature stories, and reflection time—to guide transitions and support a sense of rhythm and belonging.
These moments offer structure while honoring the flow of the day and the needs of each child.
A Balanced Day of Learning & Wonder
Our days are full of movement, learning, play, and connection—but never rushed. Children move between focused academic time and expansive outdoor exploration, between structure and freedom.
It’s this thoughtful balance that keeps them excited to come back each day—knowing they’ll be challenged, supported, and free to be fully themselves.
Want to see it in action?
Schedule a tour or follow us on Instagram @hiddenvalleyforestschool for a glimpse into daily life at HVFS.
Because learning should be joyful—and the forest is the perfect classroom.
