About Placer Forest School

Hi, I'm Gosia — a biology PhD, mother of two curious boys, and co-founder of Placer Forest School.

My journey to forest education began when I stepped away from my work in science to be home with my children. That transition sparked a deep interest in child development, respectful parenting, and the role of nature in learning and emotional growth.

I found an early foundation at Roseville Community Preschool, where I experienced the value of unstructured play, emotional awareness, and connection-based parenting. As I began homeschooling, nature quickly became our classroom — a place where my children could move freely, explore deeply, and grow at their own pace.

Inspired by educators and researchers who advocate for child-led, nature-based learning, I started a weekly parent-child nature group. It became a space for kids to lead their own adventures — from tracking animals and studying bones to catching tadpoles in spring. That small group became the heart of our homeschool experience — and the seed for this forest school.