May 3
International Forest School Day
International Day of Forest Kindergartens is celebrated on May 3, when the first officially recognized forest kindergarten opened in Flensburg, Germany in 1993. It is joined by kindergartens from more than 20 countries around the world.
May 3rd is International Forest Kindergarten Day, an annual celebration that showcases the benefits of forest kindergartens. This year, the theme is rest, relaxation, and sleep. Czech forest kindergartens have chosen the theme of "LESsnění" for 2023 to highlight the importance of rest and sleep for children's well-being. The day is often marked by open days at forest kindergartens, providing an opportunity to address any concerns or prejudices regarding children's sleep in this setting. Rest and sleep are essential for children's healthy development, and forest kindergartens provide unique sleeping arrangements such as sleeping bags, hammocks, and nests. The campaign will include raising awareness among parents and members of the Association of Forest Kindergartens, as well as addressing common myths and misconceptions about sleep and rest in forest kindergartens. The Association of Forest Kindergartens has been promoting outdoor education for preschool children for 10 years and currently has 150 members. Forest kindergartens have been established in several countries, including Denmark, France, Switzerland, Sweden, the Netherlands, Slovenia, the United Kingdom, Romania, Italy, the United States, Turkey, Spain, Japan, China, Vietnam, Finland, Poland, Canada, and Germany.
