posted 29th August 2025
Building Confidence and Independence
In a Forest School environment, children are encouraged to explore and test their abilities in safe but challenging ways. Balancing on a log, building a shelter, or finding their own path through the woods helps children build resilience and confidence.
At Isabello’s, we see the difference this makes daily—children leave us more independent, self-assured, and ready to take on new challenges when they move on to school.
Supporting Physical Development
Climbing, digging, running, jumping in puddles—it’s all part of a day at Forest School. These natural movements strengthen muscles, coordination, and fine motor skills far more effectively than a classroom desk ever could.
For many of our families from Burgess Hill, Hassocks, Henfield, and Haywards Heath, outdoor learning is also a wonderful balance to modern life, where children can sometimes spend too much time indoors.
Boosting Emotional Wellbeing
Nature has an incredible calming effect on children. Time spent outdoors reduces stress, improves mood, and helps children regulate their emotions. At Isabello’s, we combine outdoor play with mindfulness and yoga to nurture not just healthy bodies, but healthy minds too.
Inspiring Curiosity and Creativity
A stick can become a magic wand, a bridge, or the mast of a pirate ship. Leaves turn into treasure, and logs transform into obstacle courses. Forest School encourages children to see endless possibilities, sparking their creativity and curiosity.
This imaginative play is vital for early brain development and helps children develop problem-solving skills that last a lifetime.
Connecting with Nature
Spending time outdoors helps children build a lifelong connection to the natural world. They learn about seasons, weather, plants, and wildlife in a hands-on way that no book can teach.
In Sussex, we are fortunate to be surrounded by beautiful countryside, and at Isabello’s, we make the most of it. For us, muddy hands and wellies aren’t a problem—they’re proof of a day well spent!
Conclusion
Forest School is more than just playing outside—it’s about developing confidence, independence, creativity, and a deep respect for nature. At Isabello’s Preschool, we’re proud to offer families in Burgess Hill, Hassocks, Henfield, Hurstpierpoint, Haywards Heath, and surrounding villages a preschool experience where outdoor adventures are part of everyday life.
🌿 If you’d like to see Forest School in action, why not come and visit us?
➡️ Book a Visit at Isabello’s Preschool