Episode Details

Episode Summary
In this lively and wide-ranging episode, Lewis sits down with Lily Horseman (Kindling Playwork) to explore how transparent you should be when planning Forest School sessions. They discuss the balance between being honest with children, parents, and fellow educators while preserving the magic of play and spontaneity. You’ll hear fascinating insights into building trust, navigating tangents, and making space for child-led exploration. Expect plenty of unexpected side quests, real-life anecdotes, and practical tips for Forest School leaders, early years practitioners, and nature enthusiasts.

🌲 Sponsor Shout-Out: TENTSILE
This episode is proudly sponsored by TENTSILE, creators of innovative hammock tents perfect for outdoor adventures.
Use code ForestChildren10 for a 10% discount on your purchase.
Explore their range at www.tentsile.com.

🍃 Special Thanks: Chris Holland
Big thanks to Chris Holland, author of the 54-page Plant Guide for nature enthusiasts.
Discover this invaluable resource at Chris’s Affiliate Link and use code FORESTPOD for a 15% discount.

• The reality behind what looks like effortless sessions.
• How to turn last-minute planning into intentional learning experiences.

• Strategies for pivoting your session mid-flow.
• Why responding to challenges with openness builds trust.

• The delicate balance between honesty and oversharing.
• Real-world consequences of revealing your entire plan to participants.

• A powerful reflection technique to unearth deeper learning journeys.
• How reflecting on your own practice boosts self-confidence and group engagement.

Mentioned Resources & Links

• Kindling Playwork (Lily’s Projects): Kindling Playwork Website
• Forest School Training Courses: Check local listings or professional bodies for accredited providers.
• TENTSILE: www.tentsile.com — Code: ForestChildren10
• Chris Holland’s Plant Guide: Use code FORESTPOD

Enjoyed the show? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow educators and Forest School friends. Every review helps us reach more people looking to connect with nature, build community, and nurture child-led learning.

Stay wonky, stay curious, and see you in the next episode!

Chapters

00:00 The Thin Veneer of Professionalism

08:21 Adrenaline and Last-Minute Planning

11:00 Transparency in Educational Planning

14:16 The Spectrum of Learner-Centered Planning

19:01 Trust and Transparency in Education

21:55 The Balance of Transparency and Trust

24:57 Punitive Transparency in Education

27:57 The Role of Parents in Transparency

31:03 Justifying the Value of Forest School

34:00 Pedagogical Peep Show

36:11 Unveiling the Flow State

38:29 Navigating Team Dynamics

41:41 The Art of Connection

43:44 Reflective Practices in Education

46:37 Transparency and Vulnerability

49:55 The Role of Authenticity in Education

52:53 Branding and Community Engagement

56:50 Experimenting with Transparency

59:52 The North Star of Connection

01:02:28 Exploring the Conversatio