A panel titled "Nature-Based Approach in Early Childhood Education and Forest School Pedagogy" was organized by the Kastamonu University Child Education Application and Research Center on November 14, 2025. The event, held in the Cemil Meriç Hall of the Central Library, was met with great interest from academics and educators. 

The program, which began with a moment of silence and the Turkish National Anthem, featured an opening speech by Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Selahattin Kaymakcı. In his speech, Prof. Dr. Kaymakcı emphasized the importance of children learning about nature and integrating it into their education. 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aysun Ata Aktürk, Director of the Child Education Application and Research Center and panel chair, gave a brief speech on the podium. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aktürk highlighted the critical role of nature-based education in child development, stating, "Children's contact with nature not only fosters cognitive development but also nourishes their emotional and social growth. "It is the duty of us educators to prepare qualified environments for this contact," she said. 

Following the panel discussion, Professor Berat Ahi, Coordinator of Excellence in Education, stated that the forest school approach is becoming increasingly widespread in Turkey, adding the following: "Nature-based learning models not only enhance children's problem-solving skills but also boost their self-confidence. This approach deepens learning through experiences that go beyond the traditional classroom environment. In our country, the concept of nature-based learning is becoming widespread in both public and private schools." 

Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Fatma Yalçın, a faculty member at TED University, emphasized the lasting impact of early experiences. Yalçın said, "Nature is like a natural laboratory for children. "Processes like trial and error, exploration, and risk-taking are experienced in their purest form in nature". 

Lecturer Ömer Dilek from Bursa Uludağ University, sharing the practical aspects of forest school applications, stated that being in natural environments psychologically relaxes children. Lect. Dilek stated that children are happier, more playful, and more focused on exploration when they are in nature. Stating that games played with natural materials such as tree branches, leaves, and stones allow children to get to know their environment and integrate with nature, Lect. Dilek also emphasized that teachers have an observational and guiding role in this process. 

Vahide Yılmaz, the director of Özel Vahide Yılmaz Kindergarten, who attended the event, stated that they created learning environments with natural materials, inspired by nature-based and Reggio Emilia approaches.  Yılmaz stated that children can move freely, find their own rhythm, explore their emotions, relieve stress, and learn faster as they interact with nature. 

The panel, which continued throughout the day with presentations, Q&A sessions, and expert evaluations, concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation to the participants and a group photo taken in memory of the day.