For an activity which has no activity, forest bathing encompasses a lot of learning. You have health and wellbeing in the mindfulness of this act. Language is explored through children explaining their thoughts and feelings. Finally, science can also play a part with children learning about habitat and if they are lucky, observing the local wildlife.
But do not let the name put you off, whilst a forest is an ideal location, this activity can be undertaken anywhere!
Activity
Explain to children you are going to take a walk and focus on your senses, thoughts and feelings. They should try and remain silent as this will help their focus.
Allow children to wonder aimlessly through an area or playground. Encourage children to think about their senses, what can they smell? What sounds surround them? Allow them to touch things, what texture are they? How do their feet feel, is the ground soft or hard? Does what is experienced through the senses change or does it remain constant?
After a time, gather to discuss what has been experienced
Younger Children
A shorter walk will be easier for them. They may need reminders about their senses.
Older Children
A longer walk with more silent focused time should work.
Follow Up
Have you seen our senses poem?