One of the benefits of visiting the same woodland site each week over the whole school year is that we intimately get to know every part of that space.  It is lovely to note when a child observes a fallen branch or some other slight change that would not register with someone who visits only once or twice.  It also means that they are more in tune with the turning of the seasons as they recognise the changes to the woods as being seasonal rather than just thinking of new flora belonging to a new site. Read More

‘When I am among the trees,

especially the willows and the honey locust,

equally the beech, the oaks and the pines,

they give off such hints of gladness.

I would almost say that they save me, and daily.’

I always dreamed of finding a way to work outside in nature, and after a long and circuitous route I found myself becoming a Forest School Leader.  It incorporates many of my passions: the outdoors, nature, working with children and making time and space for stillness, awareness and nature connection.  The stillness may be brief, but it is perfect in that moment, and I love to see young children happily engage in stopping and being, rather than rushing and doing.  The ability to pause and be is innate in all of us, but it is in conflict with our culture that promotes busyness and accomplishment, and often people feel they must be doing something if they are to have any worth or contribute to society.

So how can we promote this notion of slowing down? Read More

“I wonder” is a powerful question, it opens up our curiosity, and from this comes exploration, experience, awareness and an opportunity to learn.  I often feel that a perceived lack of knowledge of our natural world is preventing adults from taking children outdoors and spending time with them in nature, connecting to all that surrounds them.  Children love to ask questions, hundreds if not thousands of them a day, and this is their way of figuring out the world around them.  However, many adults are uncomfortable when they are unable to answer those questions, and this is often the case when it comes to naming trees, recognising birds or identifying creatures living in our woods. Read More

Going on a bug hunt is one of the most simple yet satisfying activities that can easily take place in the woods. No resources are needed, just turn over rocks and dead wood (ensuring to return it to its rightful place afterwards) and see what creatures you might find scurrying around. The Field Studies Council have an excellent bug id guide that can be ordered from their website online, or your local bookshop may stock, and children love to learn the names of the creatures they have spotted.

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A really simple activity this time of year in the woods when sticks abound is to create giant nests.  Everything you could need can be found on the forest floor, and great fun can be had finding the perfect spot, perched up on a height looking down if your woodland has any high terrain, or tucked in between trunks and rocks off the beaten track to avoid predators.  Make sure to test it out for comfiness and cosiness once all your hard work is done. Read More