Free Forest School is a wonderful organization that I’ve been involved with since 2019 when I first started attending with my now six year old when he was just 6 months old. We started as attendees and I am now currently organizing the a group on the northwest side of Chicago. Play groups are intended for kids 0-8 years old.

According to their website, “Free Forest School is a global network with regional chapters of children and caregivers strengthening bonds through joyful outdoor play. Our goal is to nurture curiosity, creativity and resilience in nature’s classroom through child-led exploration.”

We meet each Thursday at Forest Glen Woods from 10am – 12pm. We begin with a snack and short intros and then head down the trail for a short hike (at the children’s pace) to our designated play spot. We play until 11:35 when we come together for a short circle time. We then head back to the pavilion where many of us share lunch. We meet rain or shine and all year round (snowy and rainy days are often the most fun!).

If you’re interested in attending, you can sign up for my newsletter here and you will receive weekly update emails as well as info about other offerings. You can see upcoming Free Forest School events on the calendar.

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To participate in these events (and all other events) you will also need to sign the waiver.

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