Forest Fridays: A Journey into Waldorf-Inspired Learning

Education is not simply what happens inside our walls- Learning extends beyond the walls of our school. Our Forest Fridays in June were a prime example of how we embrace outdoor education and experiential learning. Over four weeks, learners of all ages, guides, and parent volunteers ventured into different metro parks around Columbus, exploring the natural world through both guided activities and free play.

Where We Went: Exploring Ohio's Metro Parks

Each Forest Friday brought new adventures and fresh opportunities to learn from nature. We visited four metro parks, where we were guided by expert naturalists who enriched our experiences with hands-on lessons:

  1. Glacier Ridge Metro Park

    • Learners explored wetlands with dip nets, went on nature hikes, and engaged in close encounters with animals, led by the park’s naturalist.

    • Highlights included discovering the importance of wetlands in the ecosystem and observing the diversity of wildlife up close.

  2. Shale Hollow Park

    • Creeking became a favorite activity here, as learners waded through shallow streams, studied aquatic life, and observed the erosion and shaping of landscapes by water.

    • Guided by naturalists, learners explored the role of water in sustaining ecosystems and its impact on the environment.

  3. Blendon Woods Metro Park

    • This park offered a unique opportunity to dive into creek habitats, as learners hiked to a creek guided by naturalists and spent time observing and interacting with the environment.

    • Topics ranged from water conservation to the life cycles of organisms living in the creek.

  4. Highbanks Metro Park

    • Learners embarked on an ecosystem hike through the forest, guided by a naturalist who shared insights into the interconnectivity of plants, animals, and soil.

    • Exploration continued in the park’s nature center, where learners could observe and reflect on the forest ecosystem.

These metro parks provided the perfect backdrop for Waldorf-inspired experiential learning, emphasizing a deep connection to nature and hands-on discovery.

“Let Nature be your teacher.”
— William Wordsworth

The Benefits of Outdoor Learning

Forest Fridays weren’t just about being outside—they were about embracing the profound benefits of outdoor, experiential education:

  1. Waldorf Principles in Action
    Waldorf education emphasizes creativity, connection, and curiosity. By engaging with nature through observation, play, and exploration, our learners developed these skills organically. Activities like creeking and wetland exploration fostered a sense of wonder and encouraged learners to think critically about their surroundings.

  2. Hands-On Learning
    Experiential learning allowed learners to see concepts in action. Whether examining soil during an ecosystem hike or observing water movement in a stream, learners connected academic ideas to real-world applications.

  3. Mixed-Age Collaboration
    Forest Fridays emphasized collaboration across age groups. Younger learners were inspired by their older peers, while older learners practiced leadership by guiding and mentoring. This dynamic fostered empathy, teamwork, and confidence.

  4. Building a Connection to Nature
    Spending time in nature helped learners develop environmental stewardship. They learned not just about the ecosystems they explored but also about their role in protecting them.

  5. Strengthening Community Bonds
    With parents joining us as volunteers, Forest Fridays also reinforced the sense of community that makes Acton Academy Columbus unique. Parents supported learners, shared in their discoveries, and deepened their connections with the school and each other.

Why Forest Fridays Matter

At Acton Academy Columbus, we believe in the power of outdoor education to transform how learners view the world and themselves. Forest Fridays exemplified the kind of holistic, hands-on learning that prepares learners not just academically, but socially and emotionally.

These days showcase our commitment to nurturing the whole child. With a blend of Waldorf principles, experiential learning, and strong community ties, Forest Fridays were more than field trips—they were opportunities to explore, grow, and create lasting memories.

We invite you to join our community and discover how we redefine education, one adventure at a time. Let’s create something extraordinary together!

Varun Bhatia