🌲 What to Wear for Forest School in Morzine

Mar 26

🌲 What to Wear for Forest School in the Alps

The mountains are a place of constant change—sunshine, rain, snow, can all arrive in a single day. A key tenet of forest school is that we embrace all weather conditions, each one bringing new opportunities for exploration, learning, and adventure.

So how can you make sure your child is comfortable, happy, and ready for anything? Below is simple guide to dressing for success outdoors.

🌦️ Dress for Every Possibility

Flexibility is key. The best approach is layers:

Base layer: A comfortable t-shirt or long-sleeve top
Mid layer: A warm jumper or fleece
Outer layer: A waterproof jacket (waterproof trousers can also be great or a puddle suit for little ones)

Layers can be easily added or removed, helping children stay comfortable as they move between active play and quieter moments.

👖 Tough Clothes, ready for Adventures

Forest school is all about hands-on learning—building shelters, climbing trees, digging, and exploring. Clothes will get muddy, and that’s part of the experience!

Choose:

Durable trousers or leggings
Long sleeves are great to protect from scratches and insects
Clothes you don’t mind getting dirty - this is very important - not a time for box fresh trainers!

🥾 Best Foot Forward: Choosing The Right Footwear

Happy feet = bigger and better adventures

Waterproof boots (wellies or sturdy hiking boots)
Warm socks, with a spare pair packed just in case
Even in the summer, closed toe shoes are required

Keeping feet dry and warm makes a huge difference to a child’s comfort and enjoyment.

☔ Embrace All Weather

At forest school, we don’t avoid the weather—we learn from it. Rain brings shelters, puddles, mud kitchens, and new sensory experiences. Cold days bring crisp air, warm up games and exciting challenges.

There’s no such thing as bad weather—only unsuitable clothing!

🧢 Don’t Forget the Extras

A few small additions can make a big difference:

Suncream - even in winter!
A sun hat or cap for bright days or a warm beanie for colder weather
Gloves when needed
A water bottle - hydrate or die-drate
At Forest School we provide snacks but a good solid breakfast beforehand is advised

🌱 Why It Matters

Forest school is built on key principles: child-led learning, exploration, and connection with nature. When children are dressed appropriately, they feel free to fully engage—whether that means splashing in puddles, observing wildlife, or climbing a tree for the first time.

Being comfortable outdoors helps children:

Build confidence and resilience
Develop a deep connection with nature
Learn through real, hands-on experiences

✨ Ready for Adventure

With the right clothing, every child can step into the forest feeling prepared and excited—whatever the mountains bring. And remember—a muddy child is usually a happy one!

If you’re ever unsure about what to bring, feel free to ask me, I’m always happy to help!

Let the forest adventures begin! 🌿

Sophie Rowe