Woodland Wonders is a child-centred outdoor learning environment that embraces the natural world as a classroom.  At WIS, our Woodland Wonders sessions focus on the wellbeing, physical and emotional development, of each child.

Woodland Wonders provides children with meaningful, hands-on experiences that complement classroom teaching.  It is not simply about taking learning outside; it is about using the outdoor environment purposefully to deepen children's understanding, develop independence and nurture their physical, social and emotional development.

At Woodthorpe Infant School, these outdoor learning experiences link particularly well with OPAL, as both promote active, child-led experiences, appropriate risk-taking, creativity, collaboration and positive attitudes towards learning.

At Woodland Wonders, children will have the opportunity to explore, learn and have fun outdoors. Our sessions will encourage children to develop their understanding of nature and the environment while building confidence, independence and teamwork skills.

 

🌱 Gardening and Growing

Children will get hands-on experience caring for plants and growing their own food. They will:

• Plant herbs, fruit, flowers and vegetables in our raised beds.
• Grow a range of produce, including potatoes, tomatoes, lettuce and berries.
• Plant seeds and watch them grow and change over time.
• Plant cress to take home and enjoy watching grow.
• Learn how to use gardening tools safely.
• Explore and handle soil, compost, seeds and plants.
• Develop their understanding of how plants grow and what they need to thrive.
• Use scientific vocabulary to talk about what they observe.

 

🐞 Exploring Nature

Children will have lots of opportunities to discover and appreciate the natural world around them. Through crafts, games and practical activities, they will explore plants, animals and habitats.

Activities may include:

• Creating nature-inspired crafts.
• Making leaf rubbings.
• Exploring and learning about insects and other minibeasts.
• Creating and using nature names.
• Learning about animals such as hedgehogs.
• Developing areas of our school grounds to encourage and support wildlife.

As our Woodland Wonders area develops, children will also help to create bug hotels, wildlife water areas, bird feeders and bird tables, and eventually a bird hide. They will learn to identify birds and other wildlife by sight and sound.

 

🏕️ Den Building and Knot Tying

Children will develop practical outdoor skills through den building and learning how to tie different knots. They will learn to:

• Work together to design and build dens.
• Use natural materials safely and responsibly.
• Tie simple knots, including an overhand knot, reef knot and clove hitch.
• Solve problems and make decisions as a team.

 

🤝 Learning Together

Woodland Wonders is not just about learning about nature – it is also about developing important life skills. Children will learn to:

• Listen carefully and follow instructions.
• Work cooperatively in groups.
• Share equipment and take turns.
• Develop independence and confidence.
• Persevere when something is tricky.
• Care for plants, animals and their outdoor environment.

 

Most importantly, Woodland Wonders will give children the chance to get outside, get their hands dirty, enjoy being in nature and learn through real-life experiences.

Outdoor learning offers a treasure trove of benefits for children.

• Social and Emotional Well-being: Immersion in nature fosters a sense of calm and reduces stress.  Outdoor learning sessions provide opportunities for collaboration, communication and social interaction, building confidence and resilience.
• Cognitive Development: The natural world is a playground for curiosity!  Exploring the textures, shapes and sounds of the outdoors stimulates the senses and encourages problem-solving skills.  Building dens, climbing trees and navigating their environment all contribute to critical thinking and creativity.
• Physical Development: Outdoor learning provides ample space for energetic play, promoting gross and fine motor skills.  From balancing on logs to tying knots and leaf rubbing, children develop strength, coordination and dexterity.
• Environmental Awareness: By spending time in nature, children develop a deep appreciation for the environment.  They learn about different ecosystems, plant and animal life and the importance of sustainability.
• Self-Esteem and Confidence: Learning outdoors empowers children to take risks in a safe and supportive environment.  Overcoming challenges, mastering new skills and working independently contribute to a strong sense of self-esteem and confidence.
• Lifelong Learning: Learning outdoors fosters a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom walls.  Children develop a sense of curiosity and a desire to explore the world around them, a foundation for lifelong learning.