Childminders

In February 2016 our Childminders Conference ‘Embracing Outdoor Learning’ gave childminders the opportunities to learn about the benefits of the Forest School approach in improving children’s health and their overall development. This increased their interest in Forest School ethos and many childminders are now keen to join our network by undertaking FSLI training so they can engage their children in exploring and embracing the outdoors and natural world. 
 
Since the conference, all three childminding network coordinators and three network childminders have undertaken the FSLI Level 3 training. The training has given them the skills and knowledge to plan and provide Forest School sessions for their children across the borough. 
 
The following sessions are being offered or being planned:
Hackney Marshes sessions run fortnightly on Wednesdays 10am–12noon starting 14 September 2016. Contact Grace on 07810 856321 for more details.
 
Wick Woods sessions run weekly on Fridays 10am–12noon starting 16 September 2016. Contact Dovile on 07891 958086 for more details.
 
Allen Garden (N16) sessions run weekly on Tuesdays mornings 10am–12noon starting in October 2016. Contact Mumtaz on 07768 424023 for more details.
 
Haggerston Park sessions, start date to be confirmed once the site has been developed. Contact Hilary on 07768 348360 for more details.
 
The Forest School experience offers both childminders and their children rich opportunities to promote their well-being and confidence in a natural environment by engaging with nature through a variety of outdoor learning experiences including tree climbing, mud painting and
digging for bugs. Feedback from childminders is that the Forest School approach has helped them to relive their childhood and learn to support the children in outdoor activities.
 
Our aim is to encourage more childminders to attend our Forest School sessions and FSLI training which will offer their children the chance to enjoy, experience and embrace the outdoors and natural world.