Abstract:

Aim of this study was to investigate parents’ perceptions about forest school. Qualitative research was adapted as methodology. Thirty-nine parents participated in this study. Their perceptions about forest school was investigated through interviews. According to parents, forest school is a place where children feel well, discover nature and interact with nature. Their reasons were for preferring forest school listed as children’s wellbeing, children’s health, rich learning environments, non-academic orientation, child-centred learning, play and the staff characteristics. Findings also revealed that parents consider children’s increasing interest in nature and natural elements in terms of environmental awareness and environmental knowledge; social emotional development in terms of enhancement in self-confidence, social abilities and responsibility; motor development in terms of physical strength and speed; cognitive development in terms of inquiry skills.

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