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The AWO forest kindergartens in Obertshausen are innovative educational institutions that care for and support children all year round in a natural environment. The central offer is that children always play and learn outside in the forest environment, which allows them to develop their creativity and imagination through free natural materials such as sticks, leaves and clay - prefabricated toys are deliberately avoided. This enables children to grow in harmony with nature, experience ecological relationships directly and develop a deep appreciation for the environment[1][2][6][7].
The pedagogical concept places great emphasis on self-determined, playful learning outdoors with a focus on language, movement, creativity and communal rituals. In their daily interactions, children learn mindfulness, non-violent communication and conflict resolution. The daily routine is rhythmically structured and includes joint singing, storytelling, handicrafts, nature explorations and healthy, self-brought food. Through fixed rituals, the children experience orientation and security[2][4][5].
Sustainability is firmly anchored in the concept: the direct experience of nature promotes environmental awareness and a respectful approach to plants, animals and the natural environment. The conscious renunciation of mass and industrially manufactured toys supports resource conservation and strengthens the creative use of natural materials. This not only conveys ecological awareness, but also social and motor skills that enable children to deal responsibly with the environment in the long term[1][3][6].
The AWO forest kindergartens are part of the AWO Ortsverein Obertshausen e. V. and operate several forest and nature kindergarten groups in the Offenbach and Main-Kinzig districts. They emerged from a committed parents' initiative and have developed over 20 years into a vibrant community that offers children a natural, holistic development environment. Parents and families are actively involved in the community to jointly promote the connection between children and nature[5].
In summary, the AWO Waldkindergärten Obertshausen offer a holistic, sustainable and nature-oriented form of education and care that supports children in their self-development, promotes creativity and environmental awareness, and strengthens social and motor skills in a playful way. The facilities are characterised by their pedagogical concept, natural free play, the use of forest areas as experiential spaces and the focus on a mindful community[1][2][4][6][7].
