Five years of forest kindergarten: A celebration of nature in Wittmund!

Five years of forest kindergarten: A celebration of nature in Wittmund!

On June 20, 2025 the time had finally come: The Johanniter forest kindergarten in the Wittmund local association celebrated its fifth anniversary. A reason to celebrate, as the bright sky showed that day. To properly honor the anniversary, not only was a new shelter inaugurated, but there was also a lovely open day for everyone interested.

What is particularly noteworthy is that this forest kindergarten is the first and only one of its kind in Lower Saxony. The head of education and training in Weser-Ems, Demian Wempen, conveyed the board's congratulations. Iris Münchinger, the daycare manager, emphasized the valuable collaboration with partners from the region, including the nature conservation farm, parents, the Rotary Club and the vocational school. The commitment of Gerda Freese, the former local representative, was also recognized as she made a significant contribution to the development of the kindergarten.

Creative offers and a beautiful forest

The forest kindergarten offers children a unique opportunity to experience nature and explore their surroundings up close. The 700 hectare forest is described as a true oasis in East Frisia where children can play, learn and develop their motor skills in nature. The creative design of the environment with mobiles, hands-on stations and pictures that document the development of the daycare center ensures an inviting atmosphere.

There were also many culinary delicacies as part of the celebrations: from delicious cakes to bratwursts grilled by Johanniter volunteers, there was something for every taste. A successful mix of festivities and exchange among each other, which was very well received.

Forest kindergartens are trending

But that's not the Johanniter's only success story: On March 1, 2024, another forest kindergarten, in Rielasingen-Worblingen, which also offers space for up to 40 children aged three and over. The connection to nature is particularly important in Oberholz. Equipped with a heated elf car, a forest sofa and even composting toilets, the kindergarten offers a special place for the little ones to develop. Mayor Ralf Baumert praised the expansion of the care offering in the region, where the demand for Ü3 places is higher than the current supply.

Forest kindergartens have been a special format in Germany since 1993, giving children the opportunity to experience nature in a playful way. Originally inspired by Denmark, more and more such establishments have become established in recent years. According to the SDW Forest kindergartens strengthen children's development and promote emotions, concentration and body awareness. The forest as a space for movement offers all sorts of materials such as moss, stones and leaves that stimulate children's imagination and impart knowledge to them in a playful way.

Both facilities, the forest kindergarten in Wittmund and the one in Rielasingen-Worblingen, show how important the connection to nature is for child development. At a time when digital toys often dominate, these kindergartens rely on the power and fascination of nature to support children in their development and promote a love of the environment.