Nature Kindergartens and Forest Schools

Claire Warden (B.ED Hons, Dip Drama, CEO Mindstretchers Ltd.) is an Educational Consultant who has developed her approach to experiential learning through a variety of experiences which have taken her on a pathway that includes working in a variety of types of centre, advisory work and ultimately to lecturing in further education at Strathclyde University. Claire is an author of many books and materials relating to early years methodology. She set up Whistlebrae and Auchlone Nature Kindergartens in Scotland where children from 2-6 yrs old as well as after school care and holiday care for children up to 12 years spend up to 90% time outside. Claire is one of a leadership group of consultants who make up the World Nature Collaborative to develop a cohesive network and approach to experiential learning in outdoor spaces in a variety of climates bringing together educators, landscape architects, environmentalists and health workers to support a multidisciplinary approach to outdoor educational provision.

Claire Warden is leading the way in an approach that is 'grounded in earth type thinking,' where anything is possible. Claire shares with you her experiences of people she has met acrosss the globe, how they have influenced her, (what she does not write about is how she has influence them). She is a pioneer who is principled and passionate about her work with young children, not just children in Scotland, she expresses a care of the world itself. She took a leap of faith setting up her Nature Kindergartens and her bravery has influenced (and contirnues to influence) many others who have been motivated by Claire's convictions about children. Her passion is evident throughout the book. Lynn McNair O.B.E.

• 1. Creating a vision 2. Why a Nature Kindergarten 3. A place where children are capable, competent learners 4. A place whre adults and children enjoy eachother's company 5. A place whre there is a strong sense of family, community and fellowship 6. A place that gives a sense of belonging 6. A place that gives a sense of belonging 7. A place of trust and democracy 8. A place where you are consulted 9. A place to Work in harmony with nature 10. A place where people work in 'Nature Time' 11. A place of journeys and transitions 12. A place with access to the "wild" 13. A place of high play affordance 14. A place to explore the interconnectedness of the earth 15. A place to explore risk 16. A place to feel the dark 17. A place where creativity is 'natural' 18. A place that is the 'environment' in every aspects 19. Sustainability of the approach 20. Bibliography