Starting on 13 June, ‘Little Wild Things’ is a new preschool nature group designed for children between 2 ½ and 5 years old. The sessions will provide a regular chance for families with younger children to meet some of the amazing creatures that live on the RSPB Pulborough Brooks reserve, West Sussex, while learning through natural play, stories and crafts.
The themed activity sessions will run every other Tuesday throughout the year. Your child will take part in a range of hands-on, sensory activities, including a craft they can take home with them. The sessions encourage your child to explore and engage with nature at their own pace, and offer a place for parents or guardians to connect with other families.
Emily Summers, Visitor Experience Officer said: “Children love to spend time outside in nature, and stomping in muddy puddles can be as much fun as watching dragonflies in the sun. The reserve is beautiful at any time of year and it provides a great setting for families to come together and connect to nature whilst gently learning more about the world around us. With summer approaching, we encourage families to pop into our cafe for lunch after the session.”
In 2010, the RSPB’s report Every Child Outdoors report brought together external research into the benefits of contact with nature. The research showed that spending time in nature as a child can have a lasting positive influence on heath, wellbeing, education and personal and social skills.
Booking is essential and sessions run from 10.15-11.45am. Each session costs just £6 per participating child, which includes access to the reserve and a soft drink. RSPB members can take advantage of our special offer: book a block of six sessions and get the sixth for free. Additional refreshments can be purchased in the cafe or shop. Visitors should come prepared for all weathers. Accompanying babies welcome!
To find out further details about Little Wild Things or RSPB Pulborough Brooks, please visit the website, phone the visitor centre on 01798 875851 or email pulborough.brooks@rspb.org.uk.