September 4, 2025
The Western Hemlocks sit at a picnic table with Teacher Simon, doing school work.
Hello Portland Forest School Community!
The first week of school is already here, and what a week!!! It’s been a pleasure to see new routines unfold as we enter this third year at Portland Forest School. Students arrived with a mix of excitement and nerves, and together, we’ve started to settle into what will be a fantastic Forest School year.
Our first day was a success in every sense. At BREC, the students reunited or were introduced to the Dried Lake Bed, the Center Woods, and the Second Growth Peninsula (as we call it). We gathered around the main fire pit (no fire though due to a fire ban) and shared introductions and lunch!
This week, the out-of-doors has been our classroom, and it is teaching us well. Students practiced moving through the day with awareness of each other and the land, settling into morning circles, and exploring the balance of independence and collaboration. We’ve already shared stories, solved problems, and set our core routines to reflect the need to care for each other and the gear on our backs!
For any school year beginning, routines are especially important, they give children an anchor as they explore and grow in an environment that’s always shifting. Steady rhythms at home can also help your child make a smoother transition into the school day. Here are a few things that make a big difference:
Morning Routines: Keep mornings calm and unhurried. A solid breakfast, clothes laid out the night before, and limited screen time all help children start their day with focus and ease.
Arrival at School: Consider parking a short distance away for a short walk together. When saying goodbye, keep it warm but brief, your confidence helps your child settle, even if there are tears at first.
End of the Day: Children may want to share stories right away or may need quiet time. Let their pace guide you, and listen without too many questions so they can share in their own way.
Helping at Home: Invite children to join in daily tasks that get them ready for the next day: resetting their back pack, making lunch, putting clothes out the day before. Often a weather check with your child goes a long way in their understanding of what the next day will bring. These moments build confidence and connection.
Evening Rhythm: A gentle evening routine helps children ease into rest. Limiting screens supports healthy sleep, and younger children thrive on 11 to 13 hours of rest each night.
The rhythms we practice together at home and at school help children feel secure and cared for in a world that often moves too fast.
Speaking of Rhythms: Back to School Night! Our teachers will have a chance to share how their rhythms for each day might be integrated into your home life. We’ll talk about curriculum, learning outcomes, and culture building as we welcome parents into their child’s classroom!
Thank you for trusting us with your children; it’s an honor to begin this new school year with them (and you)!
Ian Abraham
Head of School
Portland Forest School
He, Him, His
PH: 503-662-8079
Children from Portland Forest School exploring a wetland.