Therapeutic Forest School
Our Therapeutic Forest School groups provide a safe and supportive environment for children to explore their emotions, build resilience, and connect with others. We work hard to ensure that our small groups are inclusive - accepting each child as they are - in order to promote a sense of belonging which helps children to thrive.
Rooted in Child-Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) and Forest School principles, these sessions blend therapeutic support with engaging, nature-based activities such as den-building, campfire cooking, music-making, and creative crafts. Each session is led by two nature-based therapists and carefully designed to foster emotional well-being, encourage positive social interaction, and inspire confidence, all while enjoying the calming and restorative effects of the natural world. Spaces are limited (8 children per group) and our minimum staffing ratio is 1 adult to 4 children.
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At a glance
Starts: Wed 20th August 2025
Time slot: 4-5pm
Cost: £15 per session (pay monthly option available)
Number of weekly sessions: 10
Age group: 5-12 years
Starts: Sat 16th August 2025
Time slot: 10.45am-12.45pm
Cost: £20-£30 per session (sliding scale)
Number of weekly sessions: 10
Age group: 5-12 years
Starts: Fri 15th August 2025
Time slot: 9.30am-11.30am
Cost: £20-30 per session (sliding scale)
Number of weekly sessions: 11
Age group: 5-12 years
Spaces are limited so book now to secure your child's spot.
"We have finally found somewhere our child can be themselves..."
"In finding Alaria, it feels like we have finally found somewhere our child can be themselves, and in being free to be himself he is increasing his confidence. He returns home in a much more regulated manner than he does from say school, so we have a day a week where he is calmer and this is a benefit to the whole family. In a way it feels like finding Alaria has been like finding my child, we see him shine and have fun, and the anxiety and all the other things he carries around each day seem much lighter for him."
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~ Laura (happy parent)
Community
Our groups create a supportive space where children can build meaningful connections with their peers and the natural world. Through shared experiences like den-building, campfire cooking, and team challenges, children develop social skills, strengthen relationships, and foster a sense of belonging. The group setting encourages collaboration, trust, and empathy, helping children feel seen, valued, and understood.
Resilience
Spending time in nature and engaging in outdoor activities can help children build emotional and mental resilience. By overcoming challenges like lighting a campfire, whittling wood, or creating something with clay, children gain confidence in their abilities and learn to navigate setbacks in a safe and nurturing environment. The natural setting itself provides a calming influence, supporting emotional regulation and reducing stress.
Connection
Feeding, handling, or simply sitting quietly near the chickens or guinea pigs can be a grounding and soothing, encouraging presence. These moments of connection with animals often help children build confidence, reduce stress, and foster empathy and a deeper appreciation for the natural world around them.