this study explores the significance of forest schools in the context of the cOViD-19 pandemic, specifically their effects on children’s developmental areas. this study was conducted with nine preschool teachers and 134 children attending a public forest school in southern turkey in 2021. a combination of observation protocols, anecdotal records, and in-depth interviews, applied as part of a phenomenological approach, were the preferred data collection tools. the results showed that forest schools can tolerate learning losses and offer vital support for children’s psycho-social, motor skills, and cognitive development, while simultaneously promoting environmental sustainability values and behaviors.