Wild Play: How Nature Shapes Childhood
Introduction
Play is the work of childhood, and there’s no better place to play than in the wild. In this episode, we explored the concept of wild play—unstructured, child-led exploration that allows imagination and curiosity to flourish. From climbing trees to building dens, wild play is at the heart of Forest School and childhood development.
What Is Wild Play?
Wild play is about freedom. Wem described it as “play with no rules, no instructions, and no limits beyond safety.” It’s climbing a tree just to see the view or turning a stick into a magic wand.
We discussed how wild play differs from structured activities, allowing children to follow their instincts and create their own adventures.
The Benefits of Wild Play
Wild play isn’t just fun—it’s essential for development. Here’s why:
Physical Health: Running, jumping, and climbing improve strength and coordination.
Mental Wellbeing: Play reduces stress and fosters creativity.
Social Skills: Collaborating on play scenarios teaches communication and empathy.
Lewis shared an example of a group who turned a fallen log into a pirate ship, working together to navigate imaginary seas and fend off make-believe dangers.
Challenges to Wild Play
Despite its benefits, wild play faces challenges in today’s world. Wem highlighted how urbanisation and screen time have reduced opportunities for unstructured outdoor play.
We also discussed how over-scheduling and safety concerns can limit children’s ability to explore freely. Lewis emphasised the importance of creating spaces where wild play is not only allowed but encouraged.
Supporting Wild Play in Forest School
Forest School is an ideal setting for wild play, but it requires thoughtful facilitation. Wem shared tips for supporting wild play, including:
Providing open-ended materials like ropes and sticks.
Allowing time for free exploration without interruption.
Balancing safety with freedom to take risks.
Conclusion
Wild play is a vital part of childhood, offering opportunities for growth, connection, and joy. By embracing unstructured exploration, we can help children develop the skills and confidence they need to navigate the world.
Listen to the full episode for more ideas, stories, and inspiration about wild play.