Building Resilience Through Outdoor Challenges at Forest School
Introduction
Resilience isn’t something we’re born with—it’s something we develop through experience. In Forest School, outdoor challenges provide the perfect opportunity for children and adults alike to build resilience in a supportive, nature-based environment. In this episode, we (Wem and Lewis) explored how challenges in the wild foster personal growth, perseverance, and confidence.
What Does Resilience Look Like in Forest School?
Resilience is the ability to recover from setbacks, adapt to change, and keep trying despite difficulties. Wem explained how Forest School creates scenarios where participants can practise resilience, from building shelters that collapse to starting fires in damp conditions.
Lewis shared a story about a child who spent an entire session trying to cross a log over a stream. “They fell off several times,” he said, “but each time, they adjusted their approach until they succeeded. The joy on their face was incredible.”
Why Outdoor Challenges Build Resilience
Nature is unpredictable, and that unpredictability fosters resilience. Challenges like unexpected rain or uneven terrain teach participants to adapt and think creatively. Wem pointed out that these experiences are valuable not just for children but for adults as well.
“In the woods, you can’t control everything,” they said. “Learning to go with the flow is a key part of building resilience.”
The Role of Educators in Supporting Resilience
Educators play a crucial role in framing challenges as opportunities rather than obstacles. Wem described how small changes in language, like saying “What’s your plan?” instead of “Let me help you,” empower participants to take ownership of their learning.
We also discussed the importance of providing encouragement and support without stepping in too soon. “Sometimes, the best thing we can do is let them struggle a little,” Lewis noted.
Examples of Resilience-Building Activities
Here are some ways to incorporate resilience-building challenges into Forest School:
Shelter Building: Encourage participants to create weatherproof structures using natural materials.
Orienteering: Set up a navigation challenge that requires problem-solving and teamwork.
Fire Lighting: Teach techniques for starting fires in different conditions.
Group Projects: Assign tasks that require collaboration and perseverance.
Learning Through Failure
Failure is a natural part of resilience-building, and how we respond to it matters. Wem shared a story about a group trying to build a bridge over a stream. When their first attempt collapsed, they analysed what went wrong and tried again, eventually creating a sturdy structure.
“These moments teach participants that failure isn’t the end—it’s part of the process,” Wem said.
How Resilience Translates Beyond Forest School
The resilience skills developed in Forest School often carry over into other areas of life. Lewis reflected on how participants who learn to face challenges in the woods become more confident in school, work, and relationships.
“We’re not just teaching outdoor skills,” he said. “We’re teaching life skills.”
Conclusion
Building resilience through outdoor challenges is one of the most rewarding aspects of Forest School. By embracing difficulties and learning from them, participants gain the confidence and adaptability they need to thrive.
Want to hear more? Listen to the full episode for stories, strategies, and insights on fostering resilience in the wild.