By Gemma Sinclair, Karen Levingstone, Gernine Tucker, Adrienne Copper and Katja Simmangk (Kindergarten 2 Team)
Our Waldkinder sessions are all about immersing ourselves in nature, building a deep connection with the environment, and learning to see the world through the eyes of a scientist, a member of a community and an ecological custodian. Each Friday morning, Kindergarten 2 (K2) ventures into the forest, turning it into our classroom. In this natural setting, the K2 children engage in hands-on activities that encourage curiosity, exploration, and resilience. We observe wildlife, identify plants, and discuss natural cycles, adaptations and evidence of change, fostering a sense of wonder about the natural world while building essential scientific skills.
The purpose of our Waldkinder programme extends beyond environmental education; it also cultivates critical social and emotional skills. Working in small groups, students collaborate, problem-solve, and support each other. By learning in an open and less predictable environment, they develop adaptability, patience, and self-confidence. They encounter real-world challenges — like navigating uneven terrain or learning how to build fires and the importance of fire safety — that help them build resourcefulness and perseverance.
In addition to educational and social benefits, Waldkinder sessions offer value by instilling a respect for nature and a sense of responsibility for our planet. Children begin to appreciate that they are part of a larger ecosystem and learn to care for it. This experience nurtures environmental stewardship, giving them the foundation to make thoughtful, eco-conscious decisions in the future. Through our time in the forest, students gain not only knowledge but also the empathy and skills to become thoughtful, responsible caretakers of the earth.
We asked K2 students: “What do you love about being in the forest?”
“So I can build stuff.” - Theo
“Playing. My favourite thing to play is building because there are some sticks and we can build a house.” - Gustaw
“Eating snacks outside in the forest.” - Rena
“Playing with my friends. They do kind things and we play unicorn tag.” - Fallon
“Having hot chocolate, building fires and roasting marshmallows.” - Bowie
“We love building. Getting people sticks. Building houses and playing with sticks!” - Pacco
“How to use sticks safely. Using sticks as tools.” - Alexander
“The trees fall down and the leaves change. The animals make houses in the trees.” - Jon
“The mushrooms are hiding in the leaves.” - Can
“Being kind in the forest.” - Emilie
