๐ Shifting with Environment, Risk & Altercation
Environment Assessments
To pay attention to the elements of the Universe
When FS coaches do an Environment Assessment with intention, they hone their capacity for more nuanced observations. It raises the quality ofย attention to the children / participants as well. Attending changes in the environment would also allow us to take care of Nature & the environment we live and play in.ย
Risk Assessments
To differentiate between Fear and Danger
Risk Assessments should be carried out continuously during every session, and before the commencement of the Forest School season. It should be done as a form of raising the risk management capacities of the Forest School leaders. Never ever do it just to cover our backs, as that will then be assessed from fear. This may lead to unnecessary risk aversion which reduces the capacity of leaders/ coaches in truly identifying and addressing real dangers. Lowered capacity to identify danger and risks jeopardises the safety of the community.
Altercation Approaches
To Allow for the exploration of different perspectives to Conflict Management
Conflict management is a key part of an open-ended program like Forest School, that is situated in the public park spaces. With an open-ended approach, individuals’ opinions and choices cross paths more often, leading to engagements that can sometimes escalate. The development of an Altercation Approach happens organically over time. However, it is important to set the intention to reflect and develop the Approach, instead of looking to avoid conflicts.
We actively engage with public opinions and commentary that are reasonable and reflective. We will invite them for direct engagement in-person with our children or community members. Discourses and Disagreements are encouraged, as it breeds a discursive environment that allows us to widen our perspectives. However, we do not condone bullying or cowardice and will take a more assertive stance.
E.g. for Reference : Risk Ass | Env Ass | Operation Briefings